Internationally-educated Physical Therapists are eligible for a professional visa to work in the US, referred to as an H-1B1. This visa, with extensions, is valid for a period of up to six (6) years. This visa is in high demand for professionals as it is efficient, well tested and, with premium processing can result in a decision within fifteen (15) days. Physical Therapists are required to pass a number of exams before being admitted to the US on a temporary visa.

FCCPT Comprehensive Credentials Evaluation (Type I Certificate)

This Credentials Evaluation is used primarily for the individual who has never been licensed in the U.S. This certificate combines both an educational credentials review and the requirements for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (formerly INS) Visa Credentials Verification Certificate.

The FCCPT Comprehensive Credentials Evaluation (Type I Certificate) is a comprehensive evaluation of your credentials based on the approved guidelines of the FCCPT. These guidelines meet or exceed the minimum credential requirements for licensure in most U.S. jurisdictions.

The Type I Certificate can be used for both immigration and licensing, and it therefore represents a cost savings for the individual who may seek credentialing for immigration and licensing separately.

FCCPT Visa Credentials Evaluation (Type II Certificate)

This certificate is required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (formerly INS) for those individuals who are currently licensed in the U.S. and are seeking adjustment of visa status to that of a permanent immigrant. The review process focuses on the verification of education (certificates, diplomas and degrees), the verification of licenses and the demonstration of English language proficiency.

If you are currently licensed as a physical therapist, are residing in the United States, and you want to change your status to become a permanent immigrant to the U.S., you should apply for an FCCPT Visa Credential Verification (Type II Certificate).

The Type II Certificate is not accepted by U.S. jurisdictions for licensing purposes.

For more information and questions about filing a non-immigrant H-1B petition, please call our US office at 603-228-1277.

For more information you may visit www.fccpt.org or www.fsbpt.org/licensing/index.asp