Visa & Licensing Requirements
Work Visa Requirements
- Non-U.S. citizens need an appropriate work visa before practising
- Contact the U.S. Department of State for available visa categories (H-1B is common for professional roles)
- The AVMA does not influence visa issuance — this is handled separately
- Secure employment independently of the licensing process
⚠️ Note: Visa sponsorship requirements vary by employer. Confirm visa support with any prospective employer before accepting a position.
Educational Equivalency for Foreign Graduates
Graduates from non-AVMA accredited schools must obtain equivalency certification before sitting the NAVLE. There are two pathways:
ECFVG Certification
Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates — administered by AVMA. Four steps:
- • Step 1: Registration & credential verification
- • Step 2: English language competency (TOEFL iBT or IELTS)
- • Step 3: Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination (BCSE)
- • Step 4: Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE) — 3-day hands-on exam
PAVE Program
Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence — administered by AAVSB
- • Alternative to ECFVG
- • Not accepted in all states — verify first
- • Check state board acceptance before applying
State Licensing Process
Step 1 — NAVLE Exam
- • Required in all 50 states and Canada
- • 360 multiple-choice questions (60 unscored pre-test items)
- • Format from Oct 2026: 12 blocks of 30 questions
- • Covers all veterinary medicine disciplines
- • Offered during specific testing windows at Prometric centres
- • Administered by ICVA
Step 2 — State Requirements
- • Each state has unique additional requirements
- • Some require a state jurisprudence exam
- • Additional fees and documentation vary
- • Contact your target state's veterinary board
⚠️ Important: State requirements vary significantly. Always verify current requirements with the specific state veterinary board where you plan to practise.
USA Programmes & Opportunities
Internships & Residencies (VIRMP)
The Veterinary Internship and Residency Matching Program (VIRMP/MATCH) places graduates into internships and residencies across the USA.
View allPostgraduate Certificates
Advanced certificates and specialist qualifications available after gaining US licensure and clinical experience.
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