Breaking Borders: 5 Important steps for becoming a Foreign nurse in the U.S

Obtaining a nursing job in the USA is a dream of many talented nurses, but the steps to get there might be complicated if you don’t have thorough knowledge. However, overcoming these complications will open the door to many benefits, including a high salary, a pension scheme, insurance, etc. Keep reading to gain thorough knowledge about the 5 steps for becoming a foreign nurse in the U.S. The steps that you have to climb to reach your dream destination- America.

To work in a particular country, especially America, you have to follow their systems. To prove that you will comply with their practices, you must overcome certain obstacles. Actually, it won’t be an obstacle if there are relevant requirements for international nurses to work in the US. Let’s find out!

Important steps for becoming a foreign nurse in the USA.

1. Achieve the basic requirements.
2. Prove your English language proficiency.
3. Excel in the NCLEX-RN Exam.
4. Verify your credentials through CGFNS.
5. Obtain a valid visa and secure a nursing job.

These are all the requirements for international nurses to work in the US. Let us have an in depth look at each step to become a nurse in USA.

1. Achieve the basic requirements as a foreign nurse

For becoming a foreign nurse in the USA, the following requirements are mandatory:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from an accredited nursing program
• Should have a registered nurse license.
• Should have a minimum of 2 years of working experience

2. Proving your English Language Proficiency Test

You might already know about these criteria. Proving your English proficiency is one of the basic criteria for becoming a foreign nurse in the U.S. Not only for nurses, but for any individuals who want to work or study in the USA, they are required to submit their English language proficiency.

This is an essential requirement that shows your English proficiency to communicate effectively. The most commonly accepted tests for international nurses to work in the USA are TOEFL, TOEIC, and IELTS.

3. Defeating the NCLEX-RN Examination to work in U.S

For all jobs, there will be a test that shows the skills that are required for a particular role. In the case of a nursing career in the USA, you need to defeat the NCLEX-RN as a foreign-educated nurse. The National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a standardized test to evaluate your skill set and knowledge regarding your nursing career.

To attend the NCLEX-RN, registration with Pearson Vue is essential. For that, you need to take centers. You can choose centers from anywhere in the world, including India, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Philippines.

4. Credential Verification through CGFNS

We discussed the required credentials. Now it’s time to verify these credentials. The critical step for a foreign-educated nurse is to verify your credentials. Your credentials are evaluated by CGFNS, the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools, which is assigned to conduct credential evaluations, testing, and license verification for nursing school graduates in order to ascertain their eligibility to practice nursing in the US.

This also verifies that you possess a valid nursing license and an independently verified transcript from a university or nursing school. The transcripts should be in English.

5. Valid Visa for becoming a foreign nurse in America

Now that your credentials are verified, it’s time to apply for a visa. But how will you get a visa in the USA as a foreign-educated nurse? For this, you should have a sponsor, which will be arranged by consultants or organizations. You can apply for an H-1B visa, which grants you temporary residency. For permanent residency, you need to obtain a green card.

America is known as the “land of opportunity”. Working as a nurse in the USA isn’t just a career choice; it’s just like enjoying the huge benefits of a career in the land of opportunity. From the financial rewards of competitive salaries to the invaluable opportunity for professional advancement, this journey promises a mosaic of advantages. Let us explore some of the benefits of becoming a foreign nurse in America.

• The U.S. offers a wide range of nursing specialties and settings which provide diverse career opportunities.
• Nurses in the USA enjoy competitive salaries, and compensation and are dependent on their education and experience.
• The healthcare system in the U.S. encourages continuous learning and professional development.
• Many healthcare employers in the U.S. offer comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
  
• Many healthcare organizations prioritize work-life balance, supporting nurses in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
• U.S. nursing credentials are globally recognized, opening doors to international career opportunities.
• Working as a nurse in the U.S. allows for cultural exchange and the chance to collaborate with healthcare professionals from different backgrounds.

Some states in the USA required foreign educated nurses to obtain state licenses to work there. Also to crack the FEN course. This course typically encompasses 120 hours of classroom instruction and an additional 120 hours of clinical practice which is supervised by a licensed Registered Nurse. This hands-on experience ensures that foreign-educated nurses are well-prepared and acquainted with the specific standards and practices in the U.S. healthcare system.This course boosts your confidence to work there and is also proof that you can handle any kind of situation.

Each state has different requirements, so it will be best to go through some consultants. Career Grids is one such agency that makes the transition of foreign-educated nurses smooth. We specialize in international nurse placements and provide expert guidance through the complex process of licensure, immigration, and job placement.

Career Grids not only make your journey the best but also allow you to enjoy faster deployment. We have established relationships with healthcare employers and facilitate job placement. Want to start your US nursing process? Career Grids will be the guide! You can ask any doubts regarding this in our comment section!