How to be a US RN when I'm practicing a different Medical field?

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UPDATE: Changes: New Log In Requirement

Hello guys! I was a RN in the Philippines and I only have a minimum working experience. Right now, I'm here in the USA right now practicing as a Medical Laboratory Scientist on a H1b visa. I want to go back on practicing Nursing soon but I don't have yet an NCLEX. Could I still apply to take the exam and practice Nursing soon I could get my resident visa? Thanks

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Yes, you can still apply for the NCLEX even while on an H1B visa, as long as you meet your chosen state's Board of Nursing requirements. Once you pass and get your license, you can start practicing nursing after securing your residency or appropriate work authorization.

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

The only thing that I'll add is a reiteration that you MUST MEET ALL REQUIREMENTS OF YOUR STATE'S BOARD OF NURISING. Yes, I know that was in all caps, but some states can have a very specific set of requirements that must be met before they'll allow a candidate to be licensed. California is known to have some very strict requirements such that it can be difficult for foreign and/or non-traditional program grads to get a license in that state unless those/until requirements are met. 

Many of my RN coworkers are from the Philippines. I have no issues with them at all. If they can do it, so can you!

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