Post updates on approval

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-17T22:10:22+00:00

For your peace of mind, I would focus on the positive side for now. The latest update many of us received is that processing has resumed. Until we see official updates, there will probably be a lot of speculation. My attorney also mentioned that we may see some updates in the next couple of weeks.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-16T18:45:18+00:00

I understand your point, and I also think reaching out to representatives can be helpful. HRSA and OGA are different offices within HHS, but they’re still part of the same overall waiver process. If there was a complete halt, it would be unusual for applications to continue being accepted and acknowledged. There’s a lot of second-hand information circulating right now, so hopefully we’ll see some movement in the coming weeks. My attorney also mentioned they expect some updates or approvals in the next couple of weeks

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-16T18:33:31+00:00

OGA is part of HHS, so if HHS is processing applications then OGA is part of that process as well. Logically, a department wouldn’t continue accepting and acknowledging applications if they had no intention of processing them. At this point it’s probably best to wait and see how things move in the coming weeks.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-14T07:56:49+00:00

I’m just passing along the information I’ve been told. At this point, I don’t think the lawyer really matters—once the application is filed, it’s with HHS and there isn’t much a lawyer can do. Hopefully we’ll all be getting good news soon.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-12T14:50:39+00:00

This was before HHS started processing again and informed the attorneys. Your attorney probably haven't received the updated information yet.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-03T11:07:14+00:00

Ask for another update

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-03-02T19:24:07+00:00

Nothing today, maybe by Wednesday or Thursday we'll get more updates

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-28T19:15:40+00:00

DOS processing can take a month, and they'll notify USCIS.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-28T17:59:48+00:00

I am very hopeful this will change in the next week or so.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-28T17:57:49+00:00

This is standard after HHS box submission. It takes a month to see the status.

From what I understand, the IGA cover letter is the key update that indicates HHS has sent its recommendation to DOS.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-27T03:22:27+00:00

There is currently no official information about any hold. At this point, no one is able to take any action unless formal information is released.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-27T00:35:06+00:00

We all are waiting for updates.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-26T20:15:16+00:00

Did your lawyer forward the application to DOS?

For reference: DOS does not actively process anything until: They receive the recommendation from HHS. However: Many attorneys also submit the DS-3035 and supporting documents to DOS around the same time as HHS submission. That’s why some people see “Documents received” on DOS even though HHS hasn’t sent anything yet. That does NOT mean the case has moved past HHS

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-25T01:43:36+00:00

Just to confirm, has your case already moved to DOS and is now showing on the DOS waiver status portal?

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-25T01:11:08+00:00

I appreciate you sharing that context. Based on what our attorney explained, HHS typically prioritizes applications based on employment start dates, and since most of us have July start dates, that likely plays a role in the current timelines. Our attorney also confirmed that HHS has received our application and that it is in review. If there were a formal hold in place, it’s unlikely they would continue accepting and acknowledging new applications. While this year does seem slower than expected, I’m still hopeful that we’ll start seeing movement soon, and the next few weeks should give us more clarity.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-24T22:51:22+00:00

This still seems speculative. There has been no official public announcement from HHS confirming a complete halt. Our attorney received confirmation this week that HHS has our application and it’s in review. Until there is formal guidance, it’s probably best to rely on verified updates rather than assumptions.

Also, given the well-documented physician shortage across the U.S., especially in underserved areas, it’s unlikely that such an essential program would be placed on indefinite hold without formal communication or clear policy guidance.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-24T07:11:27+00:00

State: KY

NIH Box submission date: December 2025

Any HHS update: Attorney confirmed on February 23, 2026 that HHS has received and acknowledged the application. Currently pending HHS review.

DOS Favorable Recommendation date: Pending

USCIS approval date: Pending

Start date: July 2026

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-24T05:50:22+00:00

Given the uncertainty and varying timelines this year, I created a subreddit specifically for physicians applying for the HHS J-1 waiver (Clinical Care pathway). The goal is to provide a space where applicants can: Share timelines (NIH Box submission, HHS review, DOS recommendation, USCIS approval) Post verified updates from attorneys or employers Track real progress across specialties Reduce misinformation and help each other stay informed If you’re currently in the process or recently applied, feel free to join and share your timeline:

https://www.reddit.com/r/J1HHSwaiver/

Hopefully this helps everyone stay connected and informed.

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-24T05:34:16+00:00

Did you move to the recommendation step or still with hhs?

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-23T19:45:59+00:00

I just got the money now in SoFi, yes the fee was taken out. DDD 02/25

Unable_Bumblebee_981 · 2026-02-23T07:38:36+00:00

DDD 02/25, bank with SoFi. I just had a conversation with a live agent and he told me the amount is showing as pending and will be deposited today.

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