Immigration (Work Authorization)

SB 457 creates a pathway for international physicians trained outside the U.S. or Canada to obtain a temporary license to practice medicine in New Hampshire. To qualify, applicants must provide proof of completed residency or 5+ years of practice abroad, good standing with their home country's medical regulator, English fluency, U.S. work authorization, and a job offer at a healthcare facility with an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited residency program. Temporary license holders may only work at such facilities and must maintain good standing for two years to receive a full, unrestricted license. The bill does not require new state funding or create additional positions.

HB 452 modifies New Hampshire's driver's license rules for non-U.S. citizens temporarily residing in the state. It prohibits renewing licenses for non-citizens who aren't lawful permanent residents and requires new applicants to provide proof of education, employment, or driver's education. The bill also explicitly states that asylees cannot receive licenses until they obtain lawful permanent residency, regardless of prior work authorization. All licenses issued under this bill must include a specific marking indicating the holder is a nonresident alien, and the license term cannot exceed five years. This affects temporary residents including students, workers, and family members of noncitizens.