Becoming a Certified Orthoptist in the United States: A Multi-Step Process (and a Lot of Patience)

After clearing all the hurdles to obtain Canadian certification, you might think the hardest part is behind you. However, for a foreign-trained orthoptist—even one certified in Canada— working in the United States remains a real administrative and logistical challenge . Here are the essential steps to get there… and why it can take several months before you're licensed to practice.

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1. “Certification by Reciprocity with Canada”

The first step to being recognized by the American Orthoptic Council (AOC) is to request recognition of your Canadian certification by equivalence, called Certification by Reciprocity with Canada .

• This process takes at least 4 weeks .

• The American committee verifies that you are a certified orthoptist in Canada , in good standing with your professional order, without suspension or limitation of practice.

• Until this step is completed, no action in the United States can really move forward .

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2. Retrieve your proof of certification

Once this recognition has been validated, you must contact the American Orthoptic Council to obtain an official certificate attesting that you are indeed a certified orthoptist in the United States by reciprocity.

• This certificate is essential for applying for a position in an American clinic or hospital.

• Without this document, no establishment can validate your hiring , nor begin to discuss a work visa.

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3. Find an employer willing to sponsor you

This is probably the trickiest step : you now have to find an American clinic or hospital that will not only hire you, but also sponsor you for a work visa , usually an H-1B visa .

• The H-1B is a visa reserved for specialized positions (which is the case for orthoptics).

• The clinic will need to work with its immigration lawyer to build the file.

• It usually takes a minimum of 8 weeks , sometimes much longer.

During this time, you cannot start working or even enter the United States as an orthoptist. Until the visa is approved, you must remain in your country of residence or in Canada if you are still there.

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In summary: a long but possible path

The process of becoming an orthoptist in the United States is very administrative , often slow, and requires great rigor. But it is doable —provided you have good organization, a little patience, and above all, an employer who is motivated to support you in your efforts .