What are the requirements to work for International Nursing Jobs in the USA?

International nursing jobs in the USA have to fulfill quite stringent requirements set by federal regulation and state licensing boards. The process is one of educational verification, licensure, immigration procedure, and further certifications.

Educational Requirements

Foreign-trained nurses need their qualifications assessed by a reputable evaluation agency like the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). This assessment assures that your training in nursing is equivalent to an American nursing school. Most opportunities demand at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or related degree.

NCLEX-RN Examination

All nurses, whether foreign or not, are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to practice nursing in the United States. This computer-adaptive exam tests your nursing skills and clinical decision-making. Foreign nurses are permitted to take the test either in the U.S. or at testing sites found in most countries.

English Language Proficiency

Non-native English speakers are required to prove English proficiency by taking standardized tests. The following tests are acceptable:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

Most states mandate minimum scores of about 83 on TOEFL iBT, 6.5-7.0 on IELTS, or the equivalent on other tests that are accepted.

State Licensure

Nursing licenses are granted at a state level, and there's a minor variation in requirements from state to state. You'll need to request licensure within the particular state where you plan on working. A few states are members of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), meaning that nurses can work in several member states with a single license.

VisaScreen Certificate

The VisaScreen certificate, issued by CGFNS, is mandatory for all healthcare professionals applying for an occupational visa. This certification confirms that your:

• Education is comparable to a U.S. graduate in the same field
• Licenses are unrestricted
• English language proficiency is up to required standards
• You have passed either the NCLEX-RN or CGFNS qualifying exam

Immigration Requirements

Most foreign nurses enter the U.S. under particular visa categories:

• H-1B visa for specialty occupations
• TN visa for Canadian and Mexican citizens under NAFTA
• Permanent residency (green card) through employment-based immigration

Most frequently, it is through employment-based immigration when healthcare facilities sponsor nurses for permanent residency because of the persistent shortage of nurses in the U.S.

Additional Certifications and Requirements

Depending on your specialty and employer, you might require additional certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Specialty certifications specific to your practice area

Employment Factors

Most U.S. healthcare employers like nurses with:

• Minimum of 1-2 years' clinical experience in their home country
• Specialty experience in high-demand specialties such as critical care, emergency, or operating room
• Computer skills and experience with electronic health records

Timeline Expectations

The whole process from initial preparations to commencing work in the U.S. should take 1-3 years, depending on your country of origin, visa backlogs, and individual situations.

Financial Factors

• Expect costs associated with:
• Credential evaluation costs ($350-$500)
• NCLEX-RN testing cost ($200-$300)
• Language testing costs ($200-$300)
• Processing fees for immigration ($500-$1,500+)
• Relocation expenses

Most health facilities provide reimbursement incentives or signing bonuses to offset some of these costs, especially for nurses who will sign multi-year contracts.

Fulfilling and understanding these obligations takes organization and planning, but the experience of practicing international nursing jobs in USA provides great professional development and career advancement for international nurses.