Confirm Eligibility

• Educational Background: Ensure your nursing education meets U.S. standards. You must have completed a registered nursing program from an accredited institution in your country.
• Experience: Some states may require a minimum amount of clinical experience.
• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must pass an English proficiency exam, such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.

Credentials Evaluation

• Choose a Credential Evaluation Service: Select a service approved by the state board of nursing in the state where you plan to work. Common agencies include:
  • Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS)
  • World Education Services (WES)
• Submit Required Documents: Provide your nursing transcripts, diploma, and license. These documents must be evaluated to confirm that your education meets U.S. standards.

Obtain a VisaScreen Certificate

• Apply for VisaScreen: The VisaScreen program, managed by CGFNS, is required for obtaining a U.S. work visa. It evaluates your credentials, English proficiency, and ensures you meet the necessary health care standards.
• Submit Proof of English Proficiency: If not exempt, provide results of your English proficiency exam to CGFNS.
• Receive the VisaScreen Certificate: Once approved, you will receive a VisaScreen certificate, which is required for the visa application.

Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

• Apply to a State Board of Nursing: Submit an application to the nursing board in the U.S. state where you want to practice. They will assess your eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Register with Pearson VUE: After receiving the board’s approval, register with Pearson VUE, the testing service that administers the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Prepare for the NCLEX-RN: Study and prepare for the exam using available resources such as review courses and practice tests.
• Take the NCLEX-RN Exam: Once ready, schedule and sit for the exam. Passing the NCLEX-RN is a requirement for obtaining a nursing license in the U.S.

Apply for a U.S. Nursing License

• Receive Your License: After passing the NCLEX-RN and meeting all other state board requirements, you will be issued a license to practice as a registered nurse in that state.

Secure Employment

• Find a Job: Research and apply to U.S. hospitals, healthcare agencies, or nursing homes that are hiring international nurses. Some agencies specialize in assisting international nurses with job placement and visa sponsorship.
• Interviews: Participate in interviews, which may be conducted online or in person if you are in the U.S.

Obtain a U.S. Work Visa

• Employer Sponsorship: Once hired, your employer must sponsor you for a work visa, typically an H-1B or EB-3 visa for nurses.
  • H-1B Visa: For specialty occupations, but limited in availability for nurses.
  • EB-3 Visa: For skilled workers, professionals, and other workers, commonly used for nurses.
• Submit Visa Application: Work with your employer and an immigration attorney to submit your visa application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Consular Processing: If outside the U.S., attend an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in your country. This step is part of obtaining your visa.

Relocate to the U.S.

• Travel Arrangements: Once your visa is approved, make travel arrangements to the U.S.
• Orientation and Licensing Finalization: Upon arrival, attend orientation programs provided by your employer and complete any final state licensing requirements.

Begin Work

• Start Your Nursing Job: Begin working as a registered nurse in the U.S., complying with the terms of your visa and employment contract.

Obtain Permanent Residency (Optional)

• Green Card Application: After working in the U.S. on a work visa, consider applying for permanent residency (Green Card) if eligible. Many nurses transition from a work visa to a Green Card through employment sponsorship.