Canadian Nurse looking to practice in the U.S....any suggestions where?

suzanne4, RN · Nov 2, 2005

You will have a few issues that you will need to deal with first, so you will not be able to move immediately and begin work. You must have a completed set of transcripts before you will be able to apply for licensure, then you will also need the Visa Screen Cetificate. You will need to pass NCLEX first for that.:) Once that is done and you find an employer, then you can get a TN Visa that will allow you to start right away.

Your best bet is going to be going direct hire with a hospital, since you do not have any experience under your belt. If you want the bonuses, you are talking about a two year contract, and that is different from what we call "agency" in the US, which is more per diem work.

fergus51 · Nov 2, 2005

I'm a fan of California. The pay is high and more than makes up for the high cost of living IMO. Since it is so populated, you can switch jobs without moving if you don't like your hospital. I don't know how many places will give you a bonus as a new grad, but most hospitals down here will train you in a specialty area if that's what you want.

nunurs05 · Dec 4, 2005

There are some nursing internships/residencies that will help with relocation, in Florida. Not sure about anywhere else. I'm sure your paperwork for working in the U.S will take some time to process...but just as much time to find a good hospital :)

suzanne4, RN · Dec 5, 2005

Salaries in Florida are about half of what they are in CA, and no chance of hurricanes, like they have in Florida.