Educational/Professional Requirements
To seek work as a foreign-educated nurse, you must demonstrate at least some of the following:
Accredited Education
You graduated from an accredited nursing education program in your country of education.
Registered Nurse Licensure
You are licensed as a Registered Nurse in another country.
Experience
You’ve practiced as a Registered Nurse for at least two years before.
Language Proficiency
Some foreign-educated nurses must demonstrate their proficiency with the English language by taking an exam such as 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 Academic). However, there are exemptions depending on your country of origin.
At International Nurses Recruits
we’re committed to ensuring you meet all the necessary educational and professional requirements to work as a registered nurse in the United States. Our team of experts can provide guidance on licensing, experience requirements, and language proficiency exams to help you successfully navigate the application process. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
Licensing Requirements
To practice nursing in the United States, you must obtain a professional license from the state where you plan to work. Each state has its own Board of Nursing with unique requirements for licensure.
Licensure Exam
You will likely need to pass a licensure exam to be registered as a nurse by your state board. First-level, general nurses educated outside the U.S. may need to take an exam such as the NCLEX-RN or the State Board Test Pool Examination (SBTPE), depending on the requirements of their state board.
Language Proficiency
Some state boards may require foreign-educated nurses to demonstrate their English proficiency by taking an exam such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Occupational Visa Screening
Foreign-educated nurses seeking to work in the United States also need to meet the occupational visa screening requirements. This involves validating your credentials and completing the VisaScreen® program, which is approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
At International Nurses Recruits
we understand the complexity of obtaining a nursing license in the United States. Our team can help guide you through the application process, prepare you for exams, and provide support throughout the licensing process. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
Once you have met all federal immigration requirements, met your State Board of Nursing requirements, and passed a licensure exam, you are ready to begin working as a registered nurse in the United States!
While it is not required, you may choose to work with a nursing recruiter to help you find a registered nurse job. These recruiters can also act as your “U.S.-based employer” for your immigrant visa.
It is important to work with ethical recruiters who follow the Alliance for Ethical International Recruitment Practices. Look for the Certified Ethical Recruiter seal on their website.
At International Nurses Recruits we are committed to ethical recruiting practices and helping foreign- educated nurses start their careers in the United States. Contact us today to learn
