Other H1B visa question

[AndreaBackmann]

Hello!

I have a question about H1B - I know that for me to apply for any kind of clinical work (like pre-residency fellowships, residency) and get H1B it is required to have completed step 3 and got the license. But as far as I understand, to get H1B for a research position that does not involve direct interaction with patients, all three steps are not required, basically, all I need, is my MD degree and a lab wanting to accept me on this basis.

The actual question is - if it would be possible for me to come on H1B to a lab for a research for, lets say, a year - would it be possible to change the basis for me coming on this visa if I later applied to residency or pre-residency fellowship as I will have got my license then? As I know they give H1B for 3 years - does this mean I have to stay in that exact lab position for all 3 years or I could change to clinical fellowship or residency after that year as soon as I complete all 3 steps?

I know it is a complicated question but maybe there is someone who has had any experience with this...

Any information will be appreciated! Thank you!

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[Prop]

You don't have to stay in the same lab for 3 years, you are free to find another job before the 3 years are done (of course depending on the contract you sign with the lab). However, if you get another job, you will have to reapply for a H1b visa, and if that new job is a clinical job you would need a license and all 3 USMLE steps completed in order to get the visa. In other words - H1b visas are not transferable for physicians.

You should also remember that the maximum time you can be on a H1b visa is 6 years (all H1b visas added together). You can get a 7th year, but only if you're in the process of applying for a green card.

Hope that helps. Good luck!