options for J1 Research

[gwapingMD]

I am currently on a j1 research scholar holding a non-tenure Faculty of research position. My field of interest is Cardiology Research. I am a foreign trained medical graduate from the Philippines and came to the US on J1 research and not on a J1 medical training visa nor was I sponsored by the ECFMG. Further, I have never been funded by the Philippine/US goverment. I sought an advisory opinion from the Department of State to inquire whether I am subject to the 2 year home residency rule and I was told that I am subject to 212 (e) since my field of interest Cardiology research is included in the skills list for my country (Philippines). The advisory committee determined that my skill is considered under Category 2b (Medical Specialization). Isn't this category considered medical training sponsored by the ECFMG? Why is cardiology research considered a medical specialization and that Cancer research is considered a separate category? Should cancer research (oncology) be considered under medical specialization as well? I feel that this determination is incorrect and that my skills should have been classified under medical research which is not included in the skills list for my country.

My DS2019 is valid for the next 3 years but I would like to know my available options at this point

I think it gets a bit technical frankly but you can argue the issue.

You might contact world law attorneys on their home page of this site and get an actual opiniion from the lawyers. i was helped to re-file under similar circumstances