PGY1 going PGY2 - J1 to H1?

[Dr.Hunzai]

I am on J1 doing residency in PGY1 and will be graduating in June 08. I am interested in applying another program in PGY2 who are offering H1. My questions are..
- Can I apply for J1 waiver while I am in PGY1?
- If so then would I be putting my J1 status in jeoperdy?
- Are there any slim chances that I might get waiver letter?
- Any one has any sample letter to waiver application as why I am changing J1 to H1 or USICS does not care the reason?


If someone you know who has gone through above process and would like to share their expert advise then I really will appreciate it.

Best Regards,
Dr. Hunzai.

[ValuableCanadian]

I am on J1 doing residency in PGY1 and will be graduating in June 08. I am interested in applying another program in PGY2 who are offering H1. My questions are..
- Can I apply for J1 waiver while I am in PGY1?
- If so then would I be putting my J1 status in jeoperdy?
- Are there any slim chances that I might get waiver letter?
- Any one has any sample letter to waiver application as why I am changing J1 to H1 or USICS does not care the reason?


If someone you know who has gone through above process and would like to share their expert advise then I really will appreciate it.

Best Regards,
Dr. Hunzai.

US immigration rules do not allow change from J-1 Visa to H 1-B.
The so called waiver is available to licenced physicians, not doctors who have completed only PGY1. When you get a PGY2, you will have to continue with J-1 visa.

[Dr.Hunzai]

Thank you for your feedback...
That means new J1 for new hospital? If so then need to contact Ottawa again for new "letter of need"?