Angel1

You mean like those internships they offer to new graduate nurses? I don't mind those. I would welcome a year or 18 months doing that. It would sharpen my skills. What I am afraid of is getting an extra 2- 3 years tacked on because they petitioned my greencard. I don't mind paying the fees. If it means I am treated like a new graduate then it is worth it. If something happens to my parents and I have to go home for a very extended period, then it would give me piece of mind knowing I am not short-changing the hospital and leaving, say 2/3's into an extended 2 year contract. Do you know how long it takes to get a greencard for a new nurse not from the PIC countries? Will it come before the end of my OPT? I know the US embassy in the Bahamas rarely turns down requests for visas and are usually very friendly (mainly because Bahamians rarely immigrate). But you need a petition and a case number/date, right? Given my F-1 status, should I use New york like you suggested? I have contacted an immigration lawyer who specialises in nurse immigration, but I like to be as informed as I can, and keep my eye on the lawyer Thank you so much for your response.

Hello, I will be finishing up by nursing education at a college in the US. Because of past education, I will be able to finish my degree in just 3 semesters! I have studied in the US before so I am familiar with how to get an F-1 Visa. I am also familiar with the OPT training program. However this was before 9/11. My concern is after graduation. I know can use the OPT for up to one year of training. I have a SSN, so I know I can apply to a BON to get an ATT to take the NCLEX and get a license after I graduate. I also know I still need to get the Visascreen, But what happens next? I have heard to stay way from the agencies and do the initial paperwork myself, but how do I find a hospital sponsor who won't take advantage of me? How long of an agreement will a hospital sponsor for the green card expect? How long will I have to work for them? 6 months, 1 year, 2 years? If I have to go home and break the contract, can I just pay the hospital there fee like people do when they take sign -on bonuses and leave? I hate getting locked into long-term contracts because I never know what will happen... I am not from one of the PIC countries. I have read up on the retrogression but the wait period from my country (Bahamas) is relatively short. I have read the stickies and threads. If anyone can outline the steps for me I appreciate it. Thank you