What is involved if Australian nurse wants to work in USA?

suzanne4, RN · Jan 14, 2008

If you are an Aussie passport holder, then you may qualify for the E-3 visa, this is a treaty visa and is similar to the visa that Canadians can get, except that your spouse can get a job with this visa. It is not the same as the EB-3 or EB-2, which are classifications for the green card or permanent residency visas. It is stricty temporary, but can be renewed.

Requirements for it: You must meet the requirements for licensure as an RN in the US and pass the NCLEX-RN exam for the state where you wish to work. You also need to apply and receive the Visa Screen Certificate before you can start any process for immigration procedures.

In the US, you apply for licensure as an RN, you cannot apply directly for that exam; it requires approval from a state Board of Nursing called the BON. Each state has their own board and one license in not valid in the other state. You can do a search for the Boards of Nursing and their links. Be aware that many states will require the CES which is a credentials eval done thru CGFNS.

The VSC is also obtained thru CGFNS, and their website it www.cgfns.org.

Hope this helps. Pleaae also read the Primer at the top of this forum for more information. Be aware that anything having to do with the retrogression does not apply for you if just wishing the temporary treaty visa, as this is available for you now if you meet the requirements.

You also must have an employer sponsor you for this visa.