Nursing Jobs in USA
While there is a well-known shortage of registered nurses, current U.S. Immigration laws can make it difficult for foreign-educated nurses to obtain jobs. It is important for those interested in pursuing this avenue to obtain the proper guidance from International Nursing Recruitment Organization.
8-Steps to Work in the U.S. As A Nurse
There are eight key steps foreign-educated nurses will need to take in order to obtain a position as an RN in a USA.
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
Accept an RN positio
Education
First and foremost, international educated nurses must meet basic education requirements. These include
English Language Proficiency Tests
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.
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.
Pass the NCLEX Examination
After ensuring you meet the education and language requirements it’s time to apply for the NCLEX in the state of intended employment.
