Can I work without English test?

suzanne4, RN · Jul 11, 2005

I am taking CGFNS this wednesday,,I have already applied for CABON licensure. I hope, i will be able to take NCLEX by the end of this September (I have not yet received the eligibility letter from the board).Currently, I am on H4 Visa. I heard that, I can work once they give me work permit(after passing NCLEX).I heard that they dont ask for visa screen cerificate for the work permit. Can I work as an RN while my visa application is under process? or do I have to submit the Visa screen certificate, before I start working? I have already applied for the visascreen certificate but I need to prepare for the English test. once I start working, my speaking English will improve and I want to take the English test after working in the hospital for 2-3 months...is it possible or I have to take the test first?( I can speak English, but I dont think this is good enough to score 7 in IELTS) Any suggestions??Thanks a bunch.

You do not get a "work permit" as an RN, you get an EAD which is an authorization to work while your documents are being processed. My personal opinion on the subject is that you should have the completed English exams done before beginning work. You will be dealing with patients from all over the world, and that speak many different languages, no matter where you are working, so your English skills need to be quite good. Or you can cause a problem from a legal standpoint for both yourself, as well as your patients. Most hospitals will not hire without a passing score on at least the TSE, because of this problem. Plus if you are on the East Coast, your documents will be processed rather quickly and you will be really stuck without the VSC, to the point that immigration can cancel out everything.

You are applying for a green card based on you meeting the standards for working in the US as an RN, and if you do not have everyhting completed by the necessary date, immigration is now cancelling applications, you no longer have a second chance to bring in the Certificate.

It is your choice.............

starbin, BSN, RN · Jul 12, 2005

Thanks a lot Suzanne..You are really a great help for us. I will go for the English test before I start working,,,,that would be beneficial for both me and my patients....I believe, with a good preparation I can make it..after all nothig is impossible....thanks again...