NCLEX passed, SSN says Valid for work only with INS authorization

[tyaky]

I just passed the NCLEX exam in california, I also have a SSN but is says "VALID FOR WORK WITH INS AUTHORIZATION". I got my SSN when I was in the US way back 1996 using an F1 student visa. Now my question is when I apply for working visa do I have to go through the retrogression problem? or can I easily get a working visa because I already have a SSN and USRN I.D? Tnx

[ghillbert, MSN, NP]

As your SSN card clearly states, the number is only valid for work if you have "INS authorization" ie. a valid work visa from the former INS, now USCIS.

You certainly do not get to bypass retrogression, you need a visa like anyone else. You only have the advantage of being able to get your nursing license once you provide the SSN to the state nursing board (which many overseas nurses cannot).