If you’re a Canadian nurse aspiring to work as a travel nurse in the U.S., you’re about to embark on an exciting new adventure. The U.S. offers so many opportunities for healthcare professionals, from diverse clinical settings at top-tier facilities to lucrative pay and benefits. But, before you can be a Canadian travel nurse in the U.S., you’ll need to go through the licensing and credentialing process. Our guide will break down each step to help you transition smoothly.
Step 1: Understand U.S. Licensing Requirements
Just like getting your Canada nursing license, you must obtain licensure through the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) in the United States. If you’ve already passed the NCLEX exam in Canada, you’re ahead of the game. If not, you’ll need to take and pass the exam. It’s important to understand that instead of a national nursing license, each state in the U.S. has its own Board of Nursing (BON) that oversees licensure.
Step 2: Meet Eligibility Requirements for Licensure
Since every state in the U.S. has its own Board of Nursing, each one has slightly different requirements. However, there are some common requirements across all states, such as:
- Education Verification: You must have completed a nursing program equivalent to those in the U.S. like a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- English Language Proficiency: If your nursing education was not conducted in English, you may need to take and pass an English language proficiency exam.
- Criminal Background Check: Most states require a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
- Credential Evaluation: You’ll need to have your nursing credentials evaluated by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). The CGFNS Certification Program often includes an education evaluation, active Canadian licensure validation, and an English proficiency test. Once your credentials have been verified, you’ll receive your VisaScreen certification.
It’s essential to research the specific state you are interested in first, as licensure requirements and processes can vary significantly. If you need help navigating the steps, a Medical Solutions recruiter can guide you through the process!
Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-RN
If you haven’t already passed the NCLEX or if you passed it before 2015, you’ll need to register for and pass this exam. To take the NCLEX, you’ll need to:
- Submit an application for licensure/registration to the BON in the state where you plan to work.
- Register with Pearson VUE to take your test and pay the exam fees.
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT), which allows you to schedule the NCLEX.
- Schedule and take the NCLEX.
Step 4: Apply for a U.S. Nursing License
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX exam (or if you’ve already passed it), you can now apply for a nursing license in your desired state! Here’s how you can get your license for travel nursing:
- Submit your application to the state’s BON where you plan to work. Include all required documentation, such as proof of education, NCLEX results, and credential evaluation from the CGFNS.
- Complete fingerprinting and a background check, following the specific instructions provided by the state BON.
- Pay any licensure fees.
- Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your state nursing license.
Step 5: Work with an Agency & Secure a Work Visa
To legally work in the U.S., Canadian travel nurses need appropriate work authorization and obtain a TN Visa. Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Canadian nurses can apply for a TN Visa for professional work in the U.S. This visa is relatively straightforward to obtain and allows you to work in the U.S. for up to three years, with the option to renew. To apply for a TN Visa, you’ll need a job offer from a travel nursing agency, proof of your nursing license, and your VisaScreen certification.
Step 6: Get a Social Security Number
In the U.S., nursing boards often require an SSN to issue your license. To finalize your licensing, you’ll need to visit a Social Security office in the state you’ll be working in and provide the required documents, such as a passport, TN Visa, and your job offer letter.
Step 7: Maintain Licensure & Compliance
Once you start working as a travel nurse from Canada to the U.S., you’ll need to stay on top of licensure and compliance requirements. Luckily, if you work with a travel nursing agency like Medical Solutions, your recruiter will work with you to make sure you meet all compliance and onboarding requirements before you start your new assignment.
Tips to Help Canadian Travel Nurses Succeed
Navigating travel nursing from Canada to the U.S. and making sure you have all the proper certifications and licensure may seem like a lot of steps, but we promise it’s worth it! Here are a few tips to help you stay stress-free during the process.
- Start Early: The U.S. licensing and credentialing process can take several months, so you’ll want to start as soon as you’ve decided to pursue travel nursing abroad.
- Stay Organized: Keep copies of all your documentation, including licenses, test results, passports, school transcripts, and visa paperwork.
- Ask for Help: Your recruiter is a knowledgeable resource who will help guide you through the process, so don’t be afraid to reach out with any questions or concerns you might have.
- Plan Finances: Becoming a Canadian travel nursing abroad can be a costly process, so you’ll want to be prepared for upfront costs like licensure fees, exam fees, and visa applications. Be sure to talk with your recruiter to see if there are ways to receive financial support.
Taking the leap to work as a Canadian travel nursing abroad in the U.S. is an exciting way to advance your career, explore diverse healthcare settings, and embrace new adventures. While the licensing and credentialing process may seem complex, following our guide will help ensure your transition to a rewarding travel nursing career is smooth sailing.
If you’re ready to take your passion for patient care on the road, Medical Solutions can help you navigate the process and secure exclusive assignments. Take the first step by applying today and let your dedicated recruiter turn your dreams of working in the U.S. a reality!
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