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Colorado

CO

Conrad State 30 J-1 waiver program overview, slot data, processing times, and application guidance for Colorado.

Community verified · Cross-referenced with immigration law sources · Last verified: 2026-03-28
30
Conrad 30 Slots
10
Flex Slots
40
Total Available
60-90 days
Processing Time

Timeline Overview

Estimated Total Timeline6-12 months
State Processing Time60-90 days
Federal Fiscal Year StartOctober 1

Specialty Priorities

Family MedicinePsychiatryInternal MedicinePediatrics

Priority Areas

Primary CareRural HealthBehavioral Health

Requirements

Must serve in a HPSA or MUA for 3 years. Colorado CDPHE sponsors applications. Colorado typically has remaining slots (not among states that fill all 30). No alternative regional pathways. HHS is the only unlimited backup. Full unrestricted CO medical license required.

Application Tips

Colorado typically does not fill all 30 Conrad slots — you have a real chance even if applying after October. Eastern Plains (Burlington, Lamar, La Junta) and Western Slope (Montrose, Grand Junction rural, Durango) have the highest need. San Luis Valley (Alamosa) has critical shortages. Denver metro HPSA sites exist but are competitive. Behavioral health is a statewide crisis — psychiatrists are in extremely high demand. Colorado has a flat state income tax (4.4%). High quality of life but cost of living in Denver/Boulder is steep. University of Colorado is the major academic system.

Official Resource

Colorado Health Department

Waiver Jobs in Colorado

Browse J-1 waiver positions currently available in Colorado.

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Quick Facts

3-year service commitment required
Must serve in HPSA or MUA designated area
Employer must sponsor the waiver application
Apply early in federal fiscal year (starts October 1)

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