Temporary Visas for Registered Nurses

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Temporary Visas for Registered Nurses
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Temporary Visas for Registered Nurses
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Temporary Visas for RNs

• A Brief History
• H-1 Visas (1952-89)
• H-1A Visas (1990-95)
• No Working Visas for Most RNs since 1995
• TNs for Canadian/Mexican RNs
• H-1Bs if BSN is Required for Job

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VisaScreen Requirement (1996 Present)

• Nurses
• Physical and Occupational Therapists
• Speech Language Pathologists/Audiologists
• Audiologists
• Clinical Lab Scientists/Technicians
• Physicians Assistants

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Obtaining a VisaScreen Certificate

• CGFNS Evaluates RNs Education,
• Training, Licensure and Experience
• Competency in Oral and Written English
• Performed by IELTS, TOEFL and TOEIC
• Exceptions to English Language Tests

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Trade NAFTA (TN) Status for RNs

• For Canadian and Mexican Citizens Only
• VisaScreen
• NCLEX/CGFNS
• State License
• TDs for Spouse and Children

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H-1B Visas for RNs (Part 1)

• RN must have BSN or Equivalent
• Job must require BSN or Equivalent
• Prevailing Wage Requirement
• Labor Conditional Application (LCA)
• Posting Requirement/ Unions

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H-1B Visas for RNs (Part 2)

• 85,000 Annual Cap on H-1B Visas
• Cap-Subject Healthcare Employers
• Cap-Exemption Healthcare Employers
• USCIS Must Approve I-129 Petition

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H-1B Visas for RNs (Part 3)

• VisaScreen Certificate
• CGFNS, NCLEX, State License
• H-4 Status for Spouse/Children
• Visa Valid for Up to 3 Years
• 3-Year Extension

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Optional Practical Training (OPT)

• For Nurses Educated in the US
• One-Year OPT for AA, BSN, MSN
• No VisaScreen/PWD Required
• State License Required

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Where to Find More Information

• Nurse Immigration Guide
• Free Immigration Newsletter
• Job Opportunities