What are the benefits to the physician when they apply for a National Interest Waiver?
• The most popular reason to make this five year employment commitment is that the Doctor is able to self-petition for a national interest waiver. This means that the doctor and employer do not need to participate in the labor certification process which requires the employer to demonstrate that no other qualified US worker will take the position. By filing for a National Interest Waiver the doctor is afforded flexibility in the application process; while in PERM labor certification cases the employer must sponsor the doctor. • Of interest to the National Interest Waiver applicant is the ability to apply for the National Interest Waiver prior to the time that the service agreement has concluded. The doctor should note that he or she cannot actually obtain permanent residency until they have fulfilled the service requirement, but by immediately filing for the adjustment of status application the doctor is able to also file for employment authorization and the travel document. • When the
