FAQ
What is the duration of the J-1 Alien Physician visa?
7 years.
When does the J-1 extension process start?
Late January. The process begins after the new GME salary rates for the coming year are announced.
How to fill out the I-644?
Residents/fellows fill out part I and sign on the bottom. All information must be filled. “N/A” or blank is not accepted by ECFMG. Department and program director fill out part II and sign on the bottom. ECFMG only accepts “wet” signature or e-signature.
Does ECFMG sign the travel signature when issuing the DS-2019?
• For all initial DS-2019 (when resident/fellow hasn’t arrived in the U.S.), travel signature is NOT included.
• For all extended DS-2019 (issued after extension process), travel signature is included.
J-1 resident/fellow can always request a duplicated copy of the DS-2019 from ECFMG during the residency/fellowship.
How to request a travel signature or a duplicated copy of the DS-2019?
You need to fill out the Request for Duplicate Form DS-2019 form and send it to AskImmigration@uams.edu.
Will ECFMG mail the DS-2019 directly to the J-1 AP?
After approving the J-1 initial process and the extension process, ECFMG will only mail the new DS-2019 to UAMS. They will not mail the new DS-2019 to the J-1 resident/fellows directly.
However, if the J-1 resident/fellow requests a duplicated copy of the DS-2019 during the residency/fellowship, ECFMG can mail the DS-2019 to the address provided by the residents/fellows.
What is the ECFMG contact information?
By phone: Call (215) 823-2121, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5p.m., Eastern Time in the United States to be connected to an EVSP team member.
By e-mail: Contact EVSP at evsp-support@ecfmg.org from your e-mail address of record.