Immigration (Work Authorization)

HB 2251 requires Kansas' state board of healing arts to grant provisional licenses to international physicians who have job offers from Kansas healthcare providers. It directly affects international physicians who completed approved medical training, passed U.S. medical licensing exams (USMLE Steps 1-3), have English fluency, and are in good standing in their home country. The bill creates a three-year provisional license pathway that automatically converts to full licensure upon active practice in Kansas, provided the physician maintains employment with a Kansas healthcare provider during this period. Physicians must secure federal work authorization before starting practice but can apply for the provisional license beforehand.