Steps in getting NJ license for foreign nurses

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Hi!

I'm a new member here but I've been reading a lot of posts regarding the steps in getting NJ license for foreign nurses. Most of them are very helpful however I have a few more things that I would like to clarify.

Correct me if I'm wrong but based on my understanding here are the things that I need to accomplish.

1. CES

2. English test (toefl or ielts)

3. Nclex exam

4. Visa screen

Since I need to have CES before I can take the nclex exam, I need to ask my school and PRC to send my credentials for evaluation / validation purposes. Does it mean I have to do it again when I apply for the visa screen?

Thanks for your help in advance!

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

CGFNS will use your documentation from CES to issue visa screen. Do you have a SSN? It's required for NJ as with other states. Visa Screen is not needed until your priority date is current. Presently there is a 6+ year backlog for EB3 visas for those born in the Philippines

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I don't have an SSN yet as I'm just about to start the whole process. I just want to make sure I have all the imoortant details that I need. How do we get an SSN and priority dates?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.
I don't have an SSN yet as I'm just about to start the whole process. I just want to make sure I have all the important details that I need. How do we get an SSN and priority dates?

The credentials evaluation by CGFNS must be completed prior to submitting your application for a nursing license by examination.

You cannot get a SSN until you are a citizen, permanent resident or have work rights via a visa. You cannot even apply for a SSN until on US soil but must have a visa status that includes the right to work.

Once licensed and an employer agrees to sponsor you for an employment based visa and submits your file to USCIS your application will be given a priority date. So if you were licensed right now and were given an offer for work and visa sponsorship today would be your priority date. The USCIS won't further consider your application for another 6+ years until today's date is current, hopefully the employer would consider holding the offer that long.

NJ will not accept or consider your application if not submitted with a valid SSN consistent with federal regulations.

There are a few states left that will accept an application for a nursing license by examination as an IEN without a SSN like NY. Other states like FL will accept your application but not issue a license until you provide a valid SSN.

NJ like most of the NJ/NY/PA metro area has more nurses seeking employment than jobs available. There is more need for experienced specialized nurses (5-10 years in a specialty such as NICU, CTICU, OR, ED, etc)

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