booha

I do not have enough experience in the matter to say, candabeth. I heard rumours and myths that green cards are difficult to get in this day and age, if not impossible, and the application takes forever to process(years even), as you are competing with every hopeful in the world who wants to work and live in the US. If you want to work in the US(and is an Australian), E3 is the only way to go, as we are not eligible for the H1B(unless you are applying for a nurse manager position, or anything higher). In addition, I am not sure paying them monies is the way to go either. As far as I know, I don't have to pay anything to the company, unless I break the bond. Of course, I had to pay for my own license and the accreditation, etc. I am not sure how the rest works yet, but I am pretty sure I won't have to pay beyond the visa application, which I am happy to anyway. If they require i take any other exams, other than to fulfil sec 343 (the CCRN for instance), I was told that they will pay for it. But $7000? That is quite hefty if you ask me. Furthermore, I am not sure if you can rescind a contract once you have signed it. As far as I know, most contracts have several restrictions in that regard, as mine does. That is why I still haven't sign mine, but I am more likely to, as so far, I am pretty happy with the answers they have supplied for my over-abundance of questions. All I can say is, don't rush to sign anything. They need you as much as you need them. At the end of the day, only commit when you are entirely comfortable. Just so you know, I went through Australian Nursing Network(google it), who is their contact here in Australia. They are based in Australia, so if you have any questions, you can call them during our(Australia) business hours. All the best.

Thanks for the input, globetrotter! I am well aware that the US and Australia both have very difference systems in nursing. I think it would be an awesome experience. Even so, I do agree with you, I WILL have a MASSIVE culture shock. :) As for the visa screen, I can't imagine why I did not apply for it. It has been so long since I started the application process that the reason eludes me now. However, I have taken the CGFNS qualifying exam, accredited by the BON of DC, including passing the NCLEX, and subsequently securing the license. Therefore, satisfying section 343. I may still need a visa screen. In that case, the visa screen expedited service allows me to secure one in 5 days. It is true that it will be some time before I embark on the journey, but I assume it is because I have done most of the legwork that the recruiter is offering me a contract so early on? Most of my peers would be starting from scratch when they contact the recruiter. Furthermore, the contract is with the recruiter instead of the hospital. I imagine that they would have to work hard when the time comes to secure me an assignment. In either case, I am taking this opportunity to absorb as much work experience as I can in my current specialty. I am so looking forward to travelling next year!! :) :) :)

My pleasure. Not yet. I am planning to leave mid-late next year, so lotsa time. Plus, no point doing it now because I am converting my immigration status. Fortunately, the agency is happy to wait for me. Meanwhile, I need to solidify my CV, and maybe do a lil bit of research. As for the agency, I have got no idea. My dealings with them at this point have been pretty decent. However, I have got no other company to compare them with as of yet, and reviews online haven't been forthcoming, hence this thread. If you find any, including any other prospective agencies, please direct them here. :) Cheers.

Dear candabeth, Congratulations in passing the NCLEX! Yep, E3 is the way to do it. I won't say that general RNs won't qualify for the E3. It is just that as far as i know, the E3 is for Australian citizens wishing to work in the US in a specialty occupation. Therefore, the more specific and specialised the occupation the better. For eg, ICU, ER and critical care. If the agency say they can help, then I am sure they have ways to get you sorted. :) Cheers.

Hey, nurses! I hold an Australian Nursing license and have received my DC nursing license a few months back, and is about to embark on a journey to the US. I have just contacted a recruiter - MED PRO STAFFING, and managed to secure a contract with them. Before I commit myself, I was wondering if anyone has traveled with them? I can't find much reviews online and would appreciate any input. Thanks!

i had the same problem. however, i was told to use a temporary ssn, and after some telephone calls and lotsa explaining, i finally got my license. i am however, not a canadian nurse, but an australian one. nevertheless, i think the same solution applies. just for your info i am licensed for DC.

Thanks grantsally1, I might at that. My specialty is quite specific - I am currently doing cardiothoracic ICU, including heart and lung transplants. I see that there are a few major hospitals doing that. :) Yep, going for the E3, although preferably H1B, but that is virtually impossible from what i heard.

Hey! Did you end up travelling with Medpro? I am considering signing up with them. Cheers from Australia.

just do the q&a apps on your smartphone. some are pretty close to the actual questions. :)

grantsally! how are you? i got my license a few months back and have contacted an agency, and managed to secure a contract. however, the contract isn fabulous. i have delayed signing it and is currently looking at other options. i was wondering how you are doing with applying to individual hospitals. i am considering doing the same. i am a little slow as i ran into some problems with registration. i would love to hear of your progress. hope to hear from you soon. :)

I am also looking for agencies/recruiters to help place me. I am an RN from Australia and will be getting my US (DC) nursing license shortly. I've contacted 2 recruiting agencies - O'Grady Peyton and Nurse Zone, on September 15, 2012. However, I have yet to hear from them. Its been 2 weeks. How long does it take for these agencies to contact us? I've had everything sorted (by myself). All I need now is just an employer (easier said than done, albeit the ongoing lack of nursing workforce). In addition, can someone recommend us (me, Yohan and whosever that is accessing this thread) some good recruiting agencies?? Thanks.