🧠 Can IMGs Work in the U.S. Without Completing Residency?

✅ Quick Answer:

Yes. In several U.S. states, international medical graduates (IMGs) can legally work in clinical roles under a limited or restricted license, even if they have not yet matched into a residency.

These roles are often called:

  • House Physician

  • Associate Physician

  • Limited License Doctor

  • Clinical Fellow / Assistant

To qualify, you usually need:

  • ✅ ECFMG certification

  • ✅ USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK

  • ✅ A sponsoring U.S. hospital, clinic, or physician

💰 How Much Can You Earn?

In states like Illinois and New York, salaries for IMGs working under limited licenses can reach:

  • $200,000 – $300,000+ for hospital-based house physician roles

  • $60,000 – $120,000 for public health or clinic-based jobs

  • 💡 Most of these roles are in public hospitals, state-run clinics, or underserved communities, and all require supervision.

📘 Want the Full State-by-State Breakdown?

👉 Click here to read our full 2025 guide on how IMGs can work in the U.S. with a limited medical license.

💬 Have questions about your own case?

Email us at info@missionresidency.com — we’ll guide you.

🔗 Related Q&A: