International student wants to work in New York

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Yes, it is definitely possible for you to work as an international nurse in New York and congrats on your upcoming graduation! Here's what you need to know:

Obtain Your Nursing License in New York

To work as a nurse in New York, you must be licensed by the New York State Board of Nursing (BON). Here's what you need to do:

• Nursing education requirements. New York requires that you graduate from an accredited nursing program. Since you're an international student, you must have your educational credentials evaluated by a credentialing agency. The CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) is the most common agency used for this purpose.
• Credentials verification. CGFNS will verify that your nursing education is equivalent to a U.S. nursing program. They will assess the length, content, and quality of your education to determine if it meets New York's standards for nursing education.

Required Documents: Typically, you will need to provide:

• Your nursing school transcripts
• Proof of clinical hours
• Your nursing diploma or degree certificate
• Your passport and visa information (if applicable)

Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is required for licensure in New York. Once your credentials are approved by the CGFNS (or any other equivalent agency), you can apply to take the NCLEX exam.

The NCLEX is a computerized exam that tests your clinical knowledge and decision-making ability as a nurse. You can register and pay for the exam through the Pearson VUE website.

Preparing for the NCLEX: As an international student, make sure you are well-prepared for the NCLEX. Many candidates take preparatory courses or study guides to help them review key topics.

Submit Your Application to the New York State Board of Nursing

You will need to apply to the New York State Board of Nursing to obtain licensure. The application will require:

• Your CGFNS credentials verification
• Your NCLEX results
• Proof of your educational background
• Any additional documents requested by the Board

You can submit your application online through the New York State Education Department website.

Additional Documentation

New York may require proof of English proficiency, especially if English is not your first language. This could include taking an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.

Visa Requirements

• Work visa. You need a valid visa to work in the U.S. Most foreign-trained nurses work in the U.S. under an H-1B visa or TN visa (for citizens of Canada or Mexico). However, these visas require sponsorship from a U.S. employer.
• If you are not from a country eligible for the TN visa, your best option might be the H-1B visa for skilled workers. If you're applying for permanent residency, consider the EB-3 visa for professionals (including nurses).
• J-1 Visa: Some international nurses come to the U.S. on a J-1 visa for cultural exchange programs. However, this visa often comes with a home residency requirement, meaning you may need to return to your home country after working in the U.S.

It's essential to consult with an immigration lawyer or a sponsor (such as a hospital or healthcare employer) to understand your best visa options.

Find a Job in New York

Once you've received your nursing license in New York, you can begin searching for jobs. Many hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations actively seek registered nurses, and some even sponsor work visas for international candidates. Some staffing agencies specialize in placing international nurses in U.S. hospitals.

Key Takeaways

• Apply for Licensure: Get your credentials evaluated by CGFNS and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Visa Requirements: You must secure a visa to work in the U.S., either an H-1B, TN, or other appropriate visa.
• Find Employment: Look for job opportunities in New York that sponsor international nurses.

Best wishes and good luck,

Nurse Beth