How Foreign Medical Graduates Can Practice in the USA

In the United States, international medical graduates (IMGs) make up about 23 percent of the physician workforce. For doctors trained abroad, the path to practicing medicine in the US involves more than holding a medical degree. You must meet strict certification, licensing, and training requirements to ensure your qualifications match US medical standards.

So how do foreign medical graduates transition into practicing medicine in the USA? The process centers around assessments, additional training, and official certifications.

The Pathway for International Medical Graduates

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) requires IMGs to complete additional training and hands-on clinical experience in the United States. To qualify, international graduates must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), a three-step test that assesses their medical knowledge and ability to apply it in clinical settings.

One major requirement for Step 3 of the USMLE is earning an Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) Certificate. This certificate confirms that an IMG meets the standards needed to enter ACGME-accredited residency or fellowship programs in the United States.

What Does ECFMG Certification Require

To obtain ECFMG certification, IMGs must meet several conditions:

• Your medical school must be listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools with an ECFMG note confirming eligibility. If your school lacks this note, you cannot apply.
• Your graduation year must be listed and valid in the World Directory entry. You also need at least four academic years of credit.
• Applicants must submit an online ECFMG application, including Form 186, the Certification of Identification Form, which must be notarized.
• Applicants must pass the two-step Clinical Knowledge exam, which covers disease recognition, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Applicants must complete an ECFMG Pathway, which may include passing the Occupational English Test for Medicine to show English proficiency. Clinical skills assessments are also required.
  

Applicants should carefully review timing and documentation requirements, as the ECFMG operates on seasonal cycles.

How Long Does the Process Take

There is no fixed timeline. Completion depends on your individual background, school, and how quickly your credentials can be verified. Schools must validate diplomas before ECFMG certification is granted, and this step is outside of ECFMG’s control.

To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure your documents are properly prepared and translated into English before submission.

The Importance of Certified Translations

If your medical diploma, transcripts, or credentials are not in English, you must submit certified translations. USCIS and ECFMG require certified translations to avoid errors and ensure your documents are legally valid.

A certified translation includes a signed statement from the translator guaranteeing the accuracy and completeness of the translation. Even small mistakes in medical terms, numbers, or formatting can cause delays or rejections. That is why it is best to work with a professional translation service like Sure Translation.

Why Choose Professional Translation Services

Professional translators ensure that your documents:

• Meet ECFMG and USCIS requirements
• Use correct medical terminology
• Avoid formatting or interpretation errors
• Include a Certificate of Translation Accuracy
  

Sure Translation provides certified translations that are accurate, confidential, and recognized by official institutions. We understand the high standards required for medical documents and help eliminate costly mistakes.

What Is a Certificate of Translation Accuracy

A Certificate of Translation Accuracy is a signed statement from the translator confirming that the translation is complete and faithful to the original. It includes the translator’s name, qualifications, signature, and the date.

This certificate is required for all certified translations and gives officials confidence that your documents can be trusted.

Do You Need Notarized Translations

Some organizations may ask for notarized translations, which involve a notary public verifying the identity of the translator. While Sure Translation provides certified translations, notarization must be completed separately if required. Applicants can take their certified translation to a local notary public for this step.

Make Your ECFMG Application Easier with Sure Translation

Sure Translation is ATA-accredited and guarantees 100 percent USCIS acceptance. We make the process simple and affordable with:

• Fast 24-hour turnaround
• Certified translations starting at $18 per page
• Service in over 60 languages
• Easy online ordering
  

Don’t let poor translations slow down your ECFMG application. With Sure Translation, you get certified, accurate, and professionally formatted translations you can rely on.

Start your order today and take the next step toward practicing medicine in the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all foreign medical graduates need ECFMG certification?

Yes. Any international medical graduate who wants to enter an ACGME-accredited residency or fellowship program in the US must first earn ECFMG certification.

What documents need to be translated for ECFMG?

Most applicants must submit certified translations of their medical diplomas, academic transcripts, and any other official credentials not originally in English.

Can I translate my own medical documents for ECFMG?

No, self translations are not accepted. You must use a professional translation service that provides certified translations with a signed statement of accuracy.

How long does ECFMG certification take?

The process varies depending on your school, credentials, and exam timing. Document verification by your medical school often takes the longest. Preparing translations in advance helps avoid delays.

Does Sure Translation provide notarized translations?

No, Sure Translation specializes in certified translations. If notarization is required, applicants can take their certified translations to a local notary public.