What is the process of hiring US agencies recruiting International Nurses ?

The United States needs a large number of skilled nurses, and thus the health care organizations look for foreign professionals by the help of specialized agencies. The agencies do the process more smoothly by ensuring that the foreign-trained nurses are well-qualified in every legal and professional qualification needed to practice in the US. The following is a step-by-step process carried out by US agencies recruiting international nurses to recruit foreign nurses.

1. Application and Initial Screening

Applications by foreign nurses through U.S.-based recruitment agencies start the process. Resumes, academic certificates, work experience, and professional licenses are sent by the applicants. Initial screening by the agency identifies the applicants who have at least an eligibility factor such as a nursing qualification, clinical experience, and English proficiency.

2. Credential Assessment

Foreign nurses who are interested in practicing in the U.S. have their credentials checked. One may submit educational transcripts to credentialing agencies, e.g., the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) or the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The agencies verify whether the candidate's education meets the standards of nursing in the U.S.

3. Licensing and Examination

After credential evaluation, the candidates must obtain a U.S. nursing license. National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a mandatory examination that tests nursing ability. The candidates are aided in preparation and registration for the NCLEX-RN exam by agencies. Other tests or certifications may be needed by some states as well.

4. Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Process

Foreign nurses are required to secure work permits that enable them to work in the U.S. Recruiting agencies aid in acquiring work-based visas, either the work visa (H-1B) or work-based professional green card (EB-3). The agencies team up with the employers in U.S. healthcare in sponsoring the candidate and also providing assistance on immigration documents such as labor certification and visa petitions.

5. Signing of Contract and Placement

After the nurses attain licensure and work permits, the agencies place them in hospital, clinic, or long-term care employment assignments. Employment offers, such as salary, benefits, contract period, and relocation, are made to applicants. After the conditions are agreeable, the nurse signs a contract of employment with the healthcare employer.

6. Relocation and Orientation

After securing a job, the agency facilitates nurses' relocation to America. This may involve flight reservation, hotel reservation, and cultural adaptation assistance. Some agencies go a notch higher and facilitate settling in America's healthcare industry by offering training sessions and workshops.

7. Continuous Support and Professional Development

Even after deployment, numerous employment agencies continue to assist foreign nurses. They provide guidance, mentorship, career progression, visa extension, or permanent residence sponsorship. The foreign nurses are also provided with opportunities for workplace promotion by additional education and certification.

Conclusion

The American agency international nurse recruitment hiring process is a multi-step one, from application to employment and work relocation. By taking the candidate through credentialing, licensure, visa sponsorship, and cultural acclimatization, the agencies accomplish much in alleviating the nursing shortage, and in providing foreign professionals with an opportunity at a fulfilling career in America.