Process for Nursing Registration Procedure in the United States

Navigating the nursing registration process in the US can be complex, but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This Guidance will walk you through each step to help you get started on the path to becoming a registered nurse in the US. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Check Eligibility Criteria

Before moving forward with your nursing registration in the US, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by both the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) and the State Board of Nursing where you intend to work.

Here are the main eligibility requirements:

1.Nursing Education:

You must have completed a nursing program equivalent to a US nursing degree. This typically involves having a diploma or degree in nursing with coursework in key areas like adult health, maternal/infant health, pediatric nursing, and psychiatric/mental health nursing.

2.Licensure in Your Home Country:

You need to be a licensed nurse in your home country, demonstrating that you’ve met the necessary requirements to practice nursing where you were trained.

3.English Proficiency:

If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to pass an English proficiency test such as TOEFL or IELTS. The required scores may vary by state, so check the specific requirements.

OETs approval by Nursing regulators in the states of Florida and Oregon will be written into the respective states’ rules by the end of 2020; we will advise those interested in working in these states as soon as their OET results will be accepted. The grades required of IMGs for ECFMG Certification are a minimum score of 350 (Grade B) on each of the four measured components of the OET (Medicine) Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Nurses applying to Oregon must achieve a minimum of 4 Grade Bs (minimum score of 350) and those nurses applying for licensure in Florida must achieve a minimum of 4 Grade C+s (minimum score of 300).

Remember that English test results need to be forwarded by the test authorities on to the nursing board within the validity period.

4.Work Experience:

While not always mandatory, having clinical work experience can be beneficial, especially when applying to states that require proof of practical nursing experience. Some states might have specific experience requirements, so it’s important to verify this with the state Board of Nursing.

5.Health and Background Checks:

You’ll need to pass health screenings and background checks, which often include immunizations, drug testing, and criminal background checks to ensure you’re fit to work in the healthcare sector.

6.State-Specific Requirements:

Each state may have additional or slightly different eligibility criteria. It’s crucial to check with the Board of Nursing in the state where you plan to work for specific exams, additional certifications, or other state-mandated procedures.

Understanding and meeting these eligibility criteria is the first crucial step in your journey to becoming a registered nurse in the US. Make sure to do thorough research and prepare accordingly!

Step 2: Verify Your Nursing Education

The next step is to verify your nursing education. In the US, the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) is responsible for evaluating your nursing credentials. You’ll need to submit your transcripts, nursing diploma, and other relevant educational documents to ensure that your education meets US standards.

To begin this process, visit the CGFNS website and create an account. Once registered, start the Credentials Evaluation Service (CES) process. This verification step is essential, as you won’t be able to move forward in the registration process without it.

Step 3: Apply for the NCLEX-RN Exam

The NCLEX-RN exam (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is your gateway to becoming a licensed nurse in the US. After your credentials are verified by CGFNS, you must apply to the Board of Nursing in the state where you wish to work. They will determine your eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN.

Once approved, register for the NCLEX-RN exam. This comprehensive exam covers all aspects of nursing practice, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly.

Register with Pearson VUE

t is recommended by the State Boards of Nursing that you simply register and buy the NCLEX exam on Pearson VUE before submitting your state board of the nursing application. Failure to try to so will delay the issuance of your Authorization To check (ATT).

1. Register with Pearson VUE at pearsonvue.com/nclex.Registration
2. Submit an application for licensure/registration to the Nursing Regulatory Body where you would like to be licensed/registered
3. Meet all of the Nursing Regulatory Body’s eligibility requirements to require the NCLEX Examination
4. Register and buy the NCLEX examination with Pearson
5. Receive eligibility from your Nursing Regulatory
6. The validity of your Pearson VUE registration is a minimum of three hundred and sixty-five days.
7. Await your NCLEX ATT from Pearson
8. Once you receive your ATT, you’ll need to schedule your NCLEX examination before it The ATT validity period varies by the state board of nursing, so make sure to understand how the regulations of the state board of nursing through which you applied. Failure to need the exam within the allowed period of your time will end within the expiration of your ATT
9. The timeframe to receive your ATT varies by state If you’ re doing not receive your AT T within three weeks, contact the state board through which you applied.
10. You’ll schedule an NCLEX exam appointment at a world test center nearest you either online or over the phone by contacting Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate
11. Follow the instructions from both Pearson VUE and thus the board of Council.

Step 4: Obtain a Visa

After passing the NCLEX-RN, the next step is to obtain the appropriate visa. If you are an international nurse, you will likely need a work visa. The most common type for nurses is the H-1B visa, but other options might be available depending on your circumstances. Consult with an immigration attorney or your employer for guidance on which visa is best for you.

Ensure that all your documents are in order before applying, and remember that the visa process can take time, so it’s wise to start early.

Step 5: Apply for State Licensure

Once you’ve secured your visa, apply for state licensure in the state where you intend to work. Each state has its own Board of Nursing, and requirements can vary. Make sure to check their specific guidelines and submit all the necessary documents.

After your application is approved, you’ll receive your nursing license, allowing you to practice in that state. Congratulations—you’re now officially a registered nurse in the US!

Some states may not require a social security number for you to get your license and may issue you a license with you being offshore. You will still need to get a valid visa to come to the USA and start your practice. 

Important Fact: Understanding Retrogression for Indian Nurses

If you’re an Indian nurse planning to work in the US, there’s an important issue to be aware of—retrogression.

Retrogression refers to a situation where the demand for employment-based visas exceeds the available number, causing delays in processing green cards or work visas for certain countries. Unfortunately, India is significantly affected by retrogression due to the high number of applicants.

What Does Retrogression Mean for You?

1. Visa Bulletin Priority Dates:
   The US Department of State issues a Visa Bulletin every month, showing the priority dates for visa applicants. If your priority date is not current, you’ll have to wait until visas become available for your category. This can lead to long waiting periods, sometimes several years.
2. Impact on Your Career Timeline:
   Retrogression can significantly delay your ability to move to the US and start working. Even after passing the NCLEX-RN and meeting all other requirements, you may still need to wait for your priority date to become current before receiving a visa and work authorization.
3. Planning Ahead:
   Given these potential delays, it’s essential to plan accordingly. Stay informed about the current Visa Bulletin and work closely with your employer and immigration attorney to explore possible options. Some nurses choose to work in other countries temporarily or continue gaining experience in their home country while waiting for their priority date to become current.
4. Alternative Options:
   In some cases, nurses explore other visa categories or consider moving to states with different processing times or visa allocations. Again, an immigration attorney can provide guidance based on your specific situation.

While retrogression can be frustrating, staying informed and proactive can help you navigate this challenge. Regularly monitor the Visa Bulletin and maintain close contact with your employer and legal advisor. With patience and persistence, you can achieve your goal of working as a nurse in the US.

Stories are the threads that bind us; through them, we understand each other, grow, and heal.

JOHN NOORD

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