Example of Statement of Need Letter

The following is the exact wording that has been approved by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services for the Statement of Need:

Name of Applicant for Visa:_________________________
There currently exists in (country) a need for qualified medical practitioners in the specialty of ______________________.

(Name of Applicant for visa) has filed a written assurance with the government of this country that he/she will return to his/her country upon completion of training in the United States and intends to enter the practice of medicine in the specialty being sought.

Include Stamp (or Seal and Signature) of issuing official of named country.
Include Date and Signature of Official of named country.

The Statement of Need must:

• Specify the exact specialty and/or subspecialty pursued.
• Be issued on government letterhead by the central office of the Ministry of Health in country of most recent legal permanent residence.
• Be accompanied by a certified English translation if letter is written in a foreign language.

The Statement of Need is required for all INITIAL applicants to ECFMG or if any of the following apply:

• The applicant is entering a new specialty or subspecialty
• The letter on file with EVSP will expire
• The letter on file with EVSP is institution-specific and a change in host institution is proposed