President Obama has signed a stopgap bill extending the Conrad 30 and EB-5 programs until October 31, 2009. Both of these programs are expected to be extended further within the coming weeks. The Conrad 30 program allows for states to sponsor foreign national physicians who agree to work in under-served health areas. The EB-5 program allows for investors to gain permanent residency in return for investing in U.S. companies that will create or save U.S. jobs.
Both programs have been around for many, many years. However, neither program is permanent and must rely on Congressional and Presidential approval to continue.