To help you prepare for the immigration process, the following resources are available below:

• Homeland Security Rules
• VisaScreen
  • Medical Laboratory Scientists (Medical Technologists) or Medical Laboratory Technicians seeking temporary or permanent occupational visas or Trade NAFTA (TN) status, must first obtain a CGFNS/ICHP VisaScreen Certificate as part of the visa process. Potential immigrants with other means by which to enter the US (i.e. immigration through a family member) do not need to go through the VisaScreen process to practice as an MT/MLS/MLT in the US.
  • Applicants who successfully complete VisaScreen receive a VisaScreen Certificate, which can be presented to a consular office, or in the case of adjustment of status, the attorney general as part of a visa application.
• H1B VISA PROCESS: To obtain an H1B visa, an applicant must 'first' find an H1B job with an H1B visa employer company in the USA; commonly known as your 'H1B sponsor'.
  • Your H1B sponsor then applies for/files your H1B visa application. Individuals can NOT sponsor or apply for their own H1B visa—ONLY your new employer (sponsor) can.
  • An H1B visa is typically valid for up to six years and entitles your spouse (husband/wife) and children to accompany you and 'live' in the USA.
  • One of the main advantages of the H1B visa (US work permit) is that it is a 'dual intent' visa which means that you can apply for a Green Card (Legal Permanent Residency).
• Immigration to the US: ASCP does believe that obtaining the ASCPⁱ certification will help you find employment in the US.
  
  It is not required by law that you must be certified to work as a medical technologist/medical laboratory scientist. That is, due to the shortage of medical technologists/medical laboratory scientists in the US, it is possible to find a job without having certification. However, pay is typically better and employers typically prefer employees who are certified.
  
  Although the government does not require certification, some states require licensure. States requiring licensure have additional requirements, and may not recognize the ASCPⁱ certification. If this list includes the state in which you wish to find employment, I would suggest you contact the corresponding person to inquire on state licensure requirements. To view state licensure agencies, click here.
  
  For more information, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.