- Meet the educational requirements
- Take and pass an English language proficiency test, if mandated.
- Obtain credential evaluation
- Pass your National Council Licensing Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX – RN)
- Find a nursing recruiting agency or US-based employer
- Apply and obtain an RN immigrant visa/green card
- RN visa interview and medical examination
- Accept an RN position
How can I immigrate to the US as a nurse?
In order to legally migrate to the United States, you must meet federal requirements listed in full here. You will need to obtain a Registered Nurse Immigrant Visa (“Green Card”) or H-1B visa. U.S. law requires nurses to complete a screening program before they can receive an occupational visa.
How to become a nurse in the US?
Pass a Licensure Exam In order to practice nursing in the United States, you will need to have a professional license from the state where you plan to work. Registered Nurse licenses are regulated by State Boards of Nursing with varying requirements. You will likely need to pass a licensure exam to be registered as a nurse by your state board.
How do I get an H-1B visa for a foreign nurse?
To obtain an H-1B visa for a foreign nurse, the U.S. employer, such as a hospital or medical clinic, would file an I-129 petition with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This agency decides whether or not to approve the employer's request for H-1B status for the worker.
Can nurses work in the US with a green card?
The majority of foreign-trained nurses will need to obtain a permanent work visa, otherwise known as a green card. This application needs to be completed prior to travel to the United States and the visa must be obtained before immigrating legally. Nurses NOT Eligible To Work In The United States
How can a nurse get a US visa?
To qualify for an H-1C visa you must: Have a full and unrestricted nursing license in the country where your nursing education was obtained, or have received a nursing education and license in the United States. Be authorized by the appropriate U.S. State Board of Nursing to practice within the state.
How nurses can migrate to USA?
In order to legally migrate to the United States, you must meet federal requirements listed in full here. You will need to obtain a Registered Nurse Immigrant Visa (“Green Card”) or H-1B visa. U.S. law requires nurses to complete a screening program before they can receive an occupational visa.
Does the US accept foreign nurses?
You're eligible to work in the US if you're a Registered Nurse in your home country. Contact the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) to see if you're qualified. When you know where in the US you'd like to work, you can apply to that state's Board of Nursing and take the NCLEX-RN.
Do nurses get green card easily?
A registered nurse can get a green card to come to the US more easily than almost any other professional.
Which hospitals sponsor nurses for H-1B?
2019 H1B Visa Reports: Registered NursesRankH1B Visa SponsorNumber of LCA *1Ochsner Clinic Foundation252Wye Oak Healthcare Of Hyattsville143Uci Group Of Healthcare Services84Colorado West Healthcare System522 more rows
How much is the salary of nurse in USA?
In the United States overall, the average registered nurse salary is $82,750 and the median (50th percentile) is $77,600. California, with RN salaries averaging $124,000, is the highest-paying state for nurses as of May 2021 (according to the BLS).
Can I work as a nurse in USA without ielts?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) The IELTS is a requirement for all international nurses from non-English speaking countries who desire to work in the US. It is comprised of four sections including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Is Nclex hard to pass?
NCLEX Pass Rates The second-attempt pass rate for domestically-educated students taking the test was 45.56%. These results demonstrate that it is a pretty difficult test. The questions are designed to test your critical thinking, knowledge of the nursing process, and assessment skills.
Which state is easiest to get Nclex?
#1 Minnesota They accept a wide range of English proficiency exams, their application fee is inexpensive, and their processing time is 5 business days once all documents are received. That is a quicker processing time than most U.S Boards of Nursing!
Can RN apply for H-1B visa?
The eligibility requirements state that a petition will only be granted if the position is considered to be a specialty occupation. In practice, this means nurses must have at least a bachelor's degree to qualify. This means general RN or LPN positions will not qualify for an H-1B visa, in most circumstances.
How long does it take to get a green card as a nurse?
Typically for these nurses, the process is much easier. He or she will receive work authorization (much more quickly than through consular processing) within approximately 90 - 120 days of filing the Petition for Alien Worker and Adjustment of Status application.
Can hospitals sponsor green card?
You can apply for a green card with or without sponsorship from a hospital. Employees eligible for a hospital sponsored green card must use a PIPS preferred local attorney. The attorney represents both the employer as well as the individual, regardless of who pays the legal fees.
Is ielts accepted in USA for nurses?
The IELTS Exam for Nurses in the USA The IELTS is accepted by the US Government and US Visa and Immigration department. The IELTS ensures that non-native English speakers have the required English skills and English ability to live and work in the USA.
Is OET accepted in USA for nurses?
OET results are accepted by healthcare regulators world-wide, including in the USA, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai and Singapore.
Can RN apply for H-1B visa?
The eligibility requirements state that a petition will only be granted if the position is considered to be a specialty occupation. In practice, this means nurses must have at least a bachelor's degree to qualify. This means general RN or LPN positions will not qualify for an H-1B visa, in most circumstances.
Is it easy for Canadian nurses to move to USA?
The good news is that relocation to the U.S. can be quick and easy for Canadian citizens and international nurses about to get their Canadian citizenship. Once you've passed your NCLEX-RN examination and have acquired your visa screen, your temporary work visa (TN visa) will be ready in a matter of weeks.
Visas Available For Nurses In the US
Are nurses high in demand? What visas are available for professional nurses in America? According to LinkedIn, nursing was the sixth most in-demand position in the American workforce as of February 2021. Because of the rising patient demand for care, healthcare facilities are looking for skilled RNs.
US Visa Categories For Nurses
Nurses may be eligible for a variety of US visa categories, therefore we recommend scheduling a free consultation with our legal experts to identify the best option. While the H-1C visa, which was designed expressly for nurses, is no longer accessible, the H-1B visa and the EB-3 visa for skilled professionals are options.
EB-3 Visa
The Green Card, also known as the Resident Alien Card or Form I-551, is a permanent work and residency permit for foreign nationals who are legally residing in the United States.
H1B Visa
In the case of nurses, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has published recommendations on H-1B visas. A petition will only be granted if the position is designated a specialized occupation, according to the eligibility conditions.
How to become a foreign nurse?
There are eight key steps foreign-educated nurses will need to take in order to obtain a position as an RN in a U.S. hospital. Meet the educational requirements. Take and pass an English language proficiency test, if mandated. Obtain credential evaluation.
How much does it cost to get a work visa after completing the NCLEX?
You’ll also need to pay a $540 fee. Other credentialing services could potentially be cheaper and still accepted by the State Boards of Nursing.
What is the CGFNS exam?
The CGFNS Qualifying Exam helps states determine if foreign-educated nurses are well suited to care for patients in America. According to the CGFNS web page, individuals must possess a wide variety of nursing knowledge.
Why is it important for nurses to speak directly to immigration lawyers?
More Information. Due to ever-changing immigration laws it is important for potential nurse immigrants to speak directly to staffing agencies or immigration lawyers to ensure all laws are followed. Most foreign-educated nurses work closely for several years prior to working in the United States as a registered nurse.
What are the requirements to become an international nurse?
These include: Graduation from an accredited Registered Nursing program. Licensing as a Registered Nurse (RN) Experience practicing as an RN for at least two years.
What test do nurses take?
After meeting the initial education requirements, some foreign educated nurses must take and pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
How much does it cost to register for the NCLEX?
Registration with Pearson Vue is required and costs $200 plus additional foreign fees.
Visas Available For Nurses In the US
Are nurses high in demand? What visas are available for professional nurses in America? According to LinkedIn, nursing was the sixth most in-demand position in the American workforce as of February 2021. Because of the rising patient demand for care, healthcare facilities are looking for skilled RNs.
US Visa Categories For Nurses
Nurses may be eligible for a variety of US visa categories, therefore we recommend scheduling a free consultation with our legal experts to identify the best option. While the H-1C visa, which was designed expressly for nurses, is no longer accessible, the H-1B visa and the EB-3 visa for skilled professionals are options.
EB-3 Visa
The Green Card, also known as the Resident Alien Card or Form I-551, is a permanent work and residency permit for foreign nationals who are legally residing in the United States.
H1B Visa
In the case of nurses, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has published recommendations on H-1B visas. A petition will only be granted if the position is designated a specialized occupation, according to the eligibility conditions.
What education do international nurses need?
These include: Graduation from an accredited Registered Nursing program. Licensing as a Registered Nurse (RN) Experience practicing as an RN for at least two years.
What test do nurses take?
After meeting the initial education requirements, some foreign educated nurses must take and pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). This will vary depending on the country of origin and results are sent directly to the state nursing board.#N#Nurses who went to nursing school in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada (except Quebec), or Ireland are exempt as are those whose spoken language in nursing school was English and/or the nursing school textbooks were written in English.
How much does it cost to take the CGFNS exam?
CGFNS Qualifying Exam. $445 Fee. The CGFNS Qualifying Exam helps states determine if foreign-educated nurses are well suited to care for patients in America. According to the CGFNS web page, individuals must possess a wide variety of nursing knowledge.
What is the NCLEX exam?
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is the basic requirement that will satisfy the visa screening requirements. Fifth, FIND POSITION, once you meet the federal immigration requirements, have had your credentials evaluated, met your State Board of Nursing requirements, passed the licensure exam, you are then ready to begin work.
How much does it cost to register for the NCLEX?
Registration with Pearson Vue is required and costs $200 plus additional foreign fees.
Which countries are exempt from nursing school?
Nurses who went to nursing school in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada (except Quebec), or Ireland are exempt as are those whose spoken language in nursing school was English and/or the nursing school textbooks were written in English.
Do nurses need a green card?
First, IMMIGRATION, the nurse will need to legally migrate to the United States, and they will need either a Green Care (a Registered Nurse Immigrant Visa) or a H-1B visa or even a EB-2 National Interest Waiver Green Card.
How to get a green card for a nurse?
If you are looking to get a green card for nurses, you will need to take your priority date into account, which may add a significant amount to your processing time. Speak with your immigration attorney if you would like to make the transition from H-1B to green card status.
What is the minimum education required to become a certified nurse midwife?
The position must also require for the nurse to be a certified RN (registered nurse). To become an RN the nurse must have a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with additional education.
What is an L-1 visa?
L-1 visa: This visa is for the managers, executives, and specialized employees of multinational companies. This may seem irrelevant at first, but if you are a nursing manager who works for an organization that has a presence in the U.S. and overseas, you may qualify for this visa.
Can I file an I-129 petition for a job transfer?
Also, if you submit a cap-subject petition and it is selected, you will be considered cap-exempt for any subsequent I-129 petitions that you need to have filed for job transfers or visa extensions. However, if you are approved for a cap-exempt position and decide to transfer to a cap-subject one later on, you will need to file a new petition that will be subject to the cap.
How to become a foreign nurse?
1. Meet the Basic Requirements. 2. CGFNS Evaluates your Credentials. 3. Pass a Licensure Exam. 4. Find a Registered Nursing Position. These steps are a general overview for how a foreign educated nurse can work in the U.S., but some aspects of your journey may differ from this basic outline.
What is the test for foreign nurses?
Some foreign educated nurses must demonstrate their proficiency with the English language by taking an exam such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). There are exemptions depending on your country of origin.
What is the CGFNS exam?
The CGFNS Qualifying Exam® is a requirement by some state boards before you can sit for the NCLEX-RN, but it serves as an excellent predictor for how any nurse will do on that exam. Taking the Qualifying Exam may help gauge your readiness before committing to the licensure exam.
Do nurses need a screening program to get an occupational visa?
U.S. law requires nurses to complete a screening program before they can receive an occupational visa.
How to become a nurse in the US?
To work in the US as a nurse, make sure you follow US federal immigration law and meet the following requirements: 1 Meet the educational requirements 2 Take and pass an English language proficiency test, if mandated. 3 Obtain credential evaluation 4 Pass your National Council Licensing Examination-Registered Nurse ( NCLEX – RN) 5 Find a nursing recruiting agency or US-based employer 6 Apply and obtain an RN immigrant visa/green card 7 RN visa interview and medical examination 8 Accept an RN position
What is the job of a nurse?
Nurses in the US are expected to complete duties such as assessing a patient’s health problems and needs, developing and implementing nursing care plans, and maintaining medical records. It is also common for certain nurses to be responsible for administering nursing care to ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled patients. Nurses may advise patients on health maintenance and disease prevention or provide case management. Each nurse is responsible for interacting with patients and caring for them through their physical, intellectual, and social needs in some way.
How much does a nurse make?
Salary Average: $71,730. There are several SOC codes referring to Nurses.
How long does it take to get an immigration assessment?
Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.
Can a Mexican nurse work in the US?
The TN Visa is only available to Mexican and Canadian nurses. Mexican and Canadian nurses may work in the US with a special TN visa if the individual has an offer of employment, a license to practice in their home country, and pass the NCLEX and state licensure requirements.
Are You Interested in Migrating to the United States as a Nurse?
Immigrating to the US is not a completely straightforward process. The laws are somewhat complex, and for this reason, it helps to work with an immigration professional to help you.
What does USCIS use to verify credentials?
USCIS uses the certification to verify the worker’s credentials for admissibility into the United States. See INA 212 (a) (5) (C). Additionally, USCIS must ensure that the health care worker meets educational requirements for the classification and any applicable licensure requirements. In reviewing the worker’s educational documents, USCIS considers the education credential evaluator’s opinion in conjunction with a review of the noncitizen’s relevant education credentials (if submitted), and other available credible material regarding the equivalency of the education credentials to college degrees obtained in the United States.
How long is a foreign worker's certification valid?
A foreign worker’s certification must be used for any admission into the United States, extension or change of status within the United States, or adjustment of status within five years of the date that it is issued. See 8 CFR 212.15 (n) (4). For this reason, the certification is only valid for five years.
Does USCIS accept health care workers?
Please note: USCIS does not accept a health care worker certification as the sole evidence that the foreign worker has met the minimum requirement for the given position and is, therefore, eligible for the requested visa classification.
Can a foreign nurse be certified?
Please note: Nurses have an alternative certification process. A foreign nurse may present a certified statement from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) or an approved equivalent independent credentialing organization if it verifies that the foreign nurse:
Is a certification required for a permanent resident?
The certification requirement is no longer applicable once the worker is a lawful permanent resident.
Can a non-immigrant be a health care worker?
Health Care Worker Certification. Noncitizens seeking admission as a nonimmigrant or immigrant primarily to perform labor as a health care worker, other than as a physician, are not admissible to the United States unless they present certification from a USCIS-approved credentialing organization verifying that they have met ...
