Exchange Visitor Sponsorship Program (EVSP)

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.

The objectives of the Exchange Visitor Sponsorship Program (EVSP) are to enhance international exchange in the field of medicine and to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries through the interchange of persons, knowledge and skills.

This Program is administered by ECFMG in accordance with the Federal Regulations 22 CFR Part 62 and a Memorandum of Understanding between ECFMG and DOS. ECFMG is responsible to ensure that all Exchange Visitors and host institutions meet the federal requirements for participation.

The ECFMG J-1 Visa Sponsorship Fact Sheet provides an introduction to ECFMG sponsorship of foreign national physicians for the J-1 visa, and includes web-based resources for those who want more information.