A Hong Kong nurse wants to work in California

[alvintong9238]

Im a Hong Kong nurse who graduate last year and wants to work in California. I checked the california board of nursing. They require SSN and the hard card. How can I obtain these information since Im not the US citizen? Would it be better if i hook up an agency like O'Grady Peyton? Thank you very much!

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

Several things to be aware of

You can not get a US SSN until in the US with a valid work/immigrant visa

Hooking up with an agency makes no difference as requirements for the state nursing board must be met

Retrogression is affecting everyone so look at 6 plus years once you have found a employer willing to wait that long and starts the immigration process before you are able to live and work in the US

Depending on your training you may find you are affected like many others of being denied a license in California

Lastly many nurses in California are struggling to find work making it even harder for International nurses to find work, especially if employer is required for immigration

[alvintong9238]

In this case, do u you mean that I should get employed first by sending my resume through email? So I can get SSN and be able to apply the license?

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

You will have to look at another state that doesn't require a US SSN and then meet their requirements, then look for a employer, depending on route you take will depend how long you have to wait for a visa allowing you to live and work in the US. Once you have arrived in the US and applied for your US SSN then apply to the state BON/BRN and meet their requirements and only then will they issue a license allowing you to work in the state as a nurse.

Many employers will not look at you without proof that you meet requirements and have a license allowing you to work as a RN in the US. Just be aware meeting requirements in one state doesn't always mean you will meet requirements in another state