+1 (213) 375-4084Immigration of Nurses in Los Angeles
Visas for Registered Nurses
As skilled workers in an essential field, registered nurses (RN) are always in demand in hospitals and other medical facilities throughout the U.S. At one time, RNs from foreign countries could quickly obtain legal immigrant status to live and work in the U.S., strengthening the medical industry and workforce. However, in recent years, a number of limitations and new requirements have been placed on RNs seeking to immigrate to the U.S.
If you are considering applying for a U.S. visa or you are an employer looking to hire a foreign nurse, consult with a qualified immigration lawyer at the Immigration Law Office of Los Angeles, P.C. to help guide you through the process as efficiently as possible. By helping you expedite your application, you will be able to start earning U.S. salaries much more quickly. Living and working in the U.S. is a dream for millions of people and we can help you make this dream a reality. Contact us online or by dialing (213) 375-4084.
How Can a Registered Nurse Gain Permanent U.S. Residency?
In many cases, foreign registered nurses are able to obtain permanent residency through employment-based immigration. The Third Preference EB-3 category of U.S. green cards allows U.S. employers to sponsor skilled foreign citizens for employment and permanent residency by filing a Form I-140 on behalf of the potential employee.
The employer must first demonstrate that he or she has not found a qualified and available worker in the U.S. before recruiting potential employees outside of the country. An experienced immigration attorney will be able to guide both an employer and potential employee through this complicated process.
Requirements a foreign RN must meet to be considered for employment-based immigration may include:
- Satisfaction of requirements for entry into the U.S.
- A permanent, unrestricted license to practice nursing in the intended state of employment
- A Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing schools (CGFNS) certificate
- Passing scores on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)
- A VisaScreen certificate
What is the Visa Credentials Assessment?
The VisaScreen: Visa Credentials Assessment is a program used to verify the applicant’s education level, professional health care licenses, and English language proficiency. Successful applicants will receive an official certificate that may be presented as part of a visa application for an adjustment of status or at the consular office.
What Other Types of Visas are Available to Nurses?
As a registered nurse from a foreign country, there are several options for gaining temporary or permanent residency in the U.S. A knowledgeable attorney who is well-versed in current immigration laws can help you determine which option is best suited for your circumstances and guide you from start to finish throughout the process.
H-1B Specialty Occupation Status
In some cases, nursing supervisors or specialized nurses may qualify for H-1B status if they meet the extensive requirements, including possessing a minimum Bachelor’s degree and a required degree.
H-1C Work Visa
This is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign RNs to work in the U.S. on a temporary basis in areas that have a shortage of qualified nurses. The number of locations that qualify and works visas available for RNs is limited, however.
TN Visa
This visa is only available to professional workers from Canada and Mexico on a temporary basis, typically for only one year, but it can be extended annually.
Helping Immigrants Obtain Nurses Visas
When applying for a nurse visa, whether as a registered nurse or as a U.S. employer, the Immigration Law Office of Los Angeles, P.C. can provide the insight and guidance needed to achieve success. Our compassionate and tenacious team will work closely with you and your prospective employer to ensure that your application is complete and filed speedily. Dial (213) 375-4084 or submit an online contact form to learn more about our services and how we can help your case.
