Occupational Therapists - FAQs
Q: What will InterFysio do for me?
A: InterFysio will sponsor you for a work visa or for permanent residence in the United States. Our team of lawyers, credentialing/licensing specialists, and staffing professionals will obtain the required licenses and authorization for your employment as an occupational therapist. We will handle all necessary steps including your visa screen, your license application, and your immigration application.Q: What are the costs?
A: You will be responsible for certain immigration and licensing fees, as well as fees for credentials evaluation. Any additional fees, such as legal fees, will be clearly stated in your written employment contract with InterFysio.Q: How long will the process take?
A: It will take approximately 4-6 months to obtain the necessary credentialing and licensure approvals for your U.S. immigration papers. This processing period may vary depending on your specific circumstances. InterFysio will do its best to ensure timely completion of the process but offers no guarantee on the ultimate timing of the process.Q: Where do I take the NBCOT certification exam?
A: The exam is administered in various locations worldwide. For more information on the exam, including locations and schedules, please visit www.nbcot.org.Q: What is a "visa screen"?
A: U.S. immigration law now requires that certain foreign healthcare workers, including Occupational Therapists, obtain a foreign healthcare certificate. Currently, there is only one accredited agency authorized to issue these certificates for occupational therapists: CGFNS (www.cgfns.org). The purpose of the immigration law requirement is to verify that foreign health care workers possess the requisite education, (i.e. a 4-year degree, English proficiency, and a foreign.)Q: Am I required to be fluent in English?
A: Yes. U.S. immigration law and work place realities require proficiency in English. The required scores are:
- Paper-Based TOEFL: 560
- Computer-Based TOEFL: 220
- Test of Written English (TWE): 4.5
- Test of Spoken English (TSE): 50
or the new Combined Exam:
- TOEFL iBT: Total 89 (26 in Speaking)
Q: How long must I work in New York before getting a job in another State?
A: Because InterFysio is based in New York, you must prepare to be licensed and employed in the State of New York. If your preferred employment location is outside of New York State, InterFysio will eventually match you with an appropriate employer in the state of your preference.Q: Can my family join me in the U.S.?
A: Yes, your spouse and children will also receive visas through this process.Q: How will I find housing?
A: We will provide you with a list of real estate agents and websites which will aid you in your search for a house or apartment.Q: What type of assignments can I expect?
A: InterFysio's clients include an entire range of treatment facilities. Most of our clients are mid-size out-patient clinics, doctor's offices and specialized treatment centers.Q: What can I expect to receive in vacation time?
A: You will receive a reasonable amount of vacation time plus several public holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, President's Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.Q: If I am unhappy with my assignment, can I choose another?
A: InterFysio will always attempt to match your skills and preferences with a suitable client. If necessary, we will accommodate your request for a new placement.Q: Will I be able to take classes or continuing education while working in the United States?
A: InterFysio offers an annual $400 credit for a continuing education class of your choice. We also encourage you to continue your education and career development. While we do not finance your studies, we will attempt to provide flexibility in your work schedule to accommodate your studies.back to top