Canadian LPN to work in the U.S.?

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Hey everyone,

I'm a prospective Canadian nursing student, and have been debating this topic and haven't been able to find any concrete information, so I'm hoping there's someone out there who can shed some light.

Currently I have two possible scenarios:

1) Assuming I do not get gain acceptance into a Canadian RN program, my backup is to go through a two-year PN program, followed by a one-year bridging program, and concluding my education with two-years in a Canadian RN University program. My question here is that if I were to graduate from the PN program, and become an LPN, what further liscencing/certification would I need in order to work as an LPN in the U.S.? More specifically, in New York (City).

2) I go through the RN program, and then migrate to the U.S., aquire all of the required credentials, and work as an RN.

Either way, I will be an RN (and then NP) one day. I'm just wondering if, assuming the hassle doesn't out-weigh other factors, I would be able to work as an LPN in the U.S. (New York) and what the necessary exams/certifications I would need to acquire. Currently, I would be hoping to work as an LPN during the summer months, and be going to school in Canada for RN during the fall/spring.

I appreciate any help, if anything isn't clear please ask for clarification :)

Thank you!

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

You can't get a visa or TN visa as an LPN so unless you have another route to gain a working visa (such as married to a USC). As far as working in NYC the job market is tight in NY and you would need a NY nursing license. Here is a link to the NYBoN regarding licensure for those educated as an RN or LPN outside the US. NYS Nursing:License Requirements

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Hi All! My question is close to the one above..I am an LPN here in Alberta, and would like to apply to a LPN to RN bridging program in Washington State, where my husband will be/is working for Microsoft, ( he is Canadian as well). I am aware that I cannot get a TN visa as an LPN, and always intended to go for my RN, just waiting for my hours to mount up, so I would love to be able to do my RN bridging there. Any tips?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Speak with the admissions office and the international students' office. You'll likely need to be a US LPN to enter the program and need a WA license. You wouldn't be a TN but a student visa like F1 but be aware international student tuition is significantly higher. Unless your spouse (not common law but legally married as there is a distinction) is coming over on a specialist visa such as H1B so you would get an H4 which allows you to be a student but not eligible to work. Again check with the missions nd international student offices at your school of choice. Good luck.

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Thanks! We are legally married, 10 years, lol. I realize tuition is higher, but that's the price I may have to pay! lol.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

H1B is a type of non-immigrant working visa available to specialists in demand Occupations. USCIS - Temporary Workers I am guessing as a Canadian he is most likely crossing over with a TN Visa. It seems TD visa status (dependent of TN visa holder) is permitted to attend school, just not work Which would be a lot easier than an F1 visa (school specific student visa requiring full time study). Again confirm with admissions & international student office.

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He just might be in the H1B category. He is one of the few in his field that have the experience in his field, holds 2 degrees , and has over a decade in experience in the areas they are looking for. I wonder if one is better than the other? He has held a TN visa before for another company. Thanks for all your know how and time!! You are great!!

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Hello,

I'm in the same situation, I was wondering how you made out with this? My boyfriend is graduating from mechanical engineering in Alabama and I'm an LPN (new grad) in cold lake.. I realize I can't work as an LPN there but I was looking at bridging. I'm trying to get enough hours to bridge into the Athabasca program right now and working on prerequisites till then. Can you give me any advice???

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