1.5 years neonatal ICU (level III) Canadian RN trying to relocate to Florida

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Specializes in Pediatric Critical Care.

Hello Allnurses,

I haven't been on here in awhile but I thought I would ask for any help/advice/insight.

Since my last post on here, I have graduate my BSN program, worked in the NICU (1.5 years) and just recently came to Florida and have taken and passed my NCLEX RN exam. I am trying my best to navigate the immigration/visa laws and rules. I feel so very overwhelmed and not sure of what direction to take. Does anyone have any suggestions? TN visa vs. H1B visa?

When I called FBON (Florida Board of Nursing) they said I need a SSN for a license in Florida then when I called about a SSN they said I need a license and job offer (no idea how to get around that) ?

So many road blocks and obstacles any advice from experience would help.

Thank you everyone,

heartnursing

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

TN is probably your best bet, you need visa screen cert from CGFNS find employer get employment letter then visit the border and pay whatever fees are for TN and then you can apply for US SSN and let the BON know

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Specializes in Pediatric Critical Care.
TN is probably your best bet, you need visa screen cert from CGFNS find employer get employment letter then visit the border and pay whatever fees are for TN and then you can apply for US SSN and let the BON know

Thank you Silverdragon,

So far all the jobs I have seen they say that I must have a valid Florida state license, I initially applied through Minnesota and I am finishing my application today with Florida state to apply for a license through endorsement.

Is it acceptable to apply for jobs and explain my situation that my license is in progress (just pending paperwork completion?)

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

I can't see why not as long as up front and TN is cheaper than H1b and H1b shoulders all cost where as TN I believe is you

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Specializes in Pediatric Critical Care.
TN is probably your best bet, you need visa screen cert from CGFNS find employer get employment letter then visit the border and pay whatever fees are for TN and then you can apply for US SSN and let the BON know

Hi Silverdragon.

Since my post I have been able to find a job offer here in miami. So far I have the BON application filled out and submitted everything else is pending (as i am waiting for my letter from HR to get m SSN).

In regards to the visa screen, Florida state said they do not require one, I also called the port of entry where I will be entering and they didnt know about a "visa screen ceritificate" they said I need the TN visa application filled out and with me, as well as my letter of employment and of course passport as well as $60. They knew nothing of a visa sceen certificate. I called and spoke to two different people and ask about the visa screen and each person did not know what I was talking about.

Am I missing something? I see it written in places that RN's need it but then everyone here (Florida) is telling me I dont need it?

I am so confused.. thank you for your help/guidance.

I have called around and its leading me in circles and wasting hours sitting on hold.

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

As a IEN you have to get visa screen certificate.. If you check out e CGFNS website it lists why it is needed. Many who gave applied for the TN have had to have it, we even had one member a few years ago post she was refused TN until she could provide VSC? Visa screen certificate isn't a requirement for the BON but immigration

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