What qualifications do I need
to work as a nurse in the United States? If you live outside the U.S. and want to work here,
you'll need to meet some minimum qualification requirements. You must be a
graduate of a training program from an accredited school of nursing and hold
a valid nursing license in the school's home country. You'll also need to
demonstrate you have English-speaking skills and at least one year of acute-care
experience.
There also are immigration and U.S. licensing requirements
that must be met. Most placement agencies will help secure the necessary
paperwork to obtain a U.S. work visa and nursing license. The entire process usually takes between 21-24 months, but can be substantially shorter if you are already CGFNS qualified.
How much can I expect to earn
and what benefits will I receive? Nursing in the U.S. is a great way to explore the country
and its culture while earning a decent paycheck. The agency that places
you
should provide comprehensive benefits, including housing or a housing subsidy,
reimbursement for travel between assignments, and health insurance. Pay
rates
will depend on your clinical specialty, level of experience, and the geographic
region in which you are working.
What is a typical assignment
like? International nurses typically work in hospital
settings. A good agency will provide you with
a solid cultural and work orientation program before you begin working.
It also will
pay for a shared apartment or other appropriate housing situation near your
assignment for the first few months.
How can I find
work as a nurse in the U.S.
Because there is a shortage of nurses in America, international nurses are
in high demand. The best way to find work is through a reputable agency
that
will help you navigate through the necessary paperwork and match you to the
position that's right for you. It's best to work with a U.S.-based agency,
as it will be able to sponsor your work visa and will have established relationships
with the hospitals here.
Are there career development
opportunities? Absolutely. Just the act of working in a new country
allows you to learn new methods, but typically, a good placement agency
will
provide opportunities to participate in specialized training courses.
How hard is it to adjust to
the new culture? Nurses in the U.S. have the same goal as you do—quality
patient care—so you'll have that in common. Everyone needs time to adjust,
but your placement agency should provide you with some intercultural training
and an orientation to help you. It also should provide you with ongoing support
once you've settled in.
How long can I stay? If your agency or hospital sponsors you to receive a
green card (a permanent work visa), you can stay as long as you like. In addition,
your spouse will have permission to work here, as will any of your children
if they immigrate before their 21st birthday.
How can I learn more? Check out the American
Nurses Association Web site for International Nursing. You also can contact
a placement agency for more information.
Colleen Bellini
"This is a job where you use your head and your heart" More>
