Has anyone recently migrated to the US (especially Florida) from Canada?

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Jan 19, 2015

Technically all states are to require a valid SSN to issue a professional license per federal mandate. Some states are slower to implement. But yes it's a catch-22.

Mike32110 · Jan 19, 2015

Technically all states are to require a valid SSN to issue a professional license per federal mandate. Some states are slower to implement. But yes it's a catch-22.

So then how are Canadians working down there?

icuRNmaggie, BSN, RN · Jan 19, 2015

I worked with a Canadian travel nurse whose agency walked her through the process, as they had a job lined up for her in Nevada. That might be worth a try.

Silverdragon102, BSN · Jan 19, 2015

Hey everyone. I am in the process of moving to the United States to become an RN down there, after practicing for almost four years in Canada. I am getting really confused by the whole process, and somewhat intimidated now. I am extremely confused as it seems that in order to get your license, you must have a SSN. in order to get a SSN I need a visa. In order to get a visa, I need a license. I have been looking into moving to Florida, so I was wondering if it is just some stakes that require a SSN for a license? It seems that the process would be to get a license, get a visa, get a SSN, get a job. This would be great because I could then apply for a job when I am fully able to work.
Any help is appreciated! Thanks

Starting point would be getting sorted with meeting US state requirements and if necessary pass NCLEX. Then get visa screen certificate sorted with CGFNS. Look for a employer willing to go the TN route and get letter of employment from them. Visit the US state border and get TN issued go to local US SSN office and apply for a US SSN #.

Nothing much has changed from your previous questions

Mike32110 · Jan 20, 2015

Starting point would be getting sorted with meeting US state requirements and if necessary pass NCLEX. Then get visa screen certificate sorted with CGFNS. Look for a employer willing to go the TN route and get letter of employment from them. Visit the US state border and get TN issued go to local US SSN office and apply for a US SSN #.
Nothing much has changed from your previous questions

The only thing that has changed is that I was not aware I would need a SSN to get a license, and it seems that you CAN apply for a SSN in order to get a visa if you have proof that all other licensing requirements are met. I am going to talk with a consulat in the next few days, plus i'll be down in Florida next week so maybe I can find someone there that has been through the whole process. Thanks.

Mike32110 · Jan 20, 2015

I do appreciate your advice by the way. I just read something online that contradicted it, however, I read further and found out that there is an exception. I guess when I apply for jobs I'd have to write "Florida RN License in Progress (Pending SSN)" on my resume and hope for the best. When I pass the NCLEX, I will make sure to add that on my resume as well, so they know that all I am waiting on is a job offer.

Would it be more practical doing research and finding a highly underserviced area to look for jobs?

dishes, BSN, RN · Jan 20, 2015

@mike, Have you tried phoning or emailing Florida hospital human resources staff? HR staff can let you know if there are vacancies and if are they are interested in hiring Canadian nurses, they can advise you of the steps you should take.