The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) is authorized by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to sponsor foreign national physicians as Exchange Visitors in accredited programs of graduate medical education or training or advanced research programs (involving primarily observation, consultation, teaching or research). Exchange Visitors sponsored by ECFMG receive a Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1 Visa) Status (Form DS-2019). This document is used to apply for the J-1 visa.
Sponsorship Process
ECFMG facilitates J-1 visa sponsorship through the coordinated efforts of training institutions and foreign national physician applicants. ECFMG verifies that the foreign national physicians meet J-1 eligibility requirements. The host institution is responsible for providing the J-1 physician with the approved clinical training. Each host institution designates a Training Program Liaison (TPL) who serves as the official representative to communicate with ECFMG. This communication ensures regulatory compliance and provides the required administrative oversight for J-1 physicians. Communication regarding all aspects of J-1 sponsorship must be conducted through the TPL. Immediately after obtaining a training contract, the foreign national physician should initiate the sponsorship process by contacting the TPL at the host institution.

Effective January 30, 2003, the U.S. Government implemented the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). SEVIS is a national, web-based tracking system designed to assist educational institutions and government agencies in managing foreign national student and exchange visitor data. As a designated visa sponsor, ECFMG is required to process J-1 visa sponsorship through SEVIS.

Upon establishing an applicant's eligibility, ECFMG issues Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status. The physician may also request Form DS-2019 to enable dependents (spouse and unmarried, minor children) to apply for J-2 dependent status. Issuance of Forms DS-2019 indicates that the physician and dependents are eligible to apply for the J visa. Agencies of the U.S. Government make decisions regarding the issuance of visas. The DS-2019 is one of many factors considered by the U.S. Government in determining whether to issue the visa. Policies and procedures of the U.S. Government vary and are subject to change. J-1 physicians and J-2 dependents are responsible for complying with all U.S. laws and regulations pertaining to foreign nationals.