INFORMATION FOR NURSES TO WORK INTERNATIONALLY

INTRODUCTION

For foreign-trained nurses aiming to work in the U.S., Canada, or Australia, each country has specific requirements to ensure that their education and skills align with local standards. Here’s a breakdown of the general process for each country:

 

1. United States

Credential Evaluation: Foreign-trained nurses must have their education and licenses evaluated. This often involves working with a credentialing organization like the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS), which verifies that your nursing education meets U.S. standards.

English Language Proficiency: Nurses typically need to prove English proficiency through exams such as the TOEFL or IELTS, though some exemptions apply based on native language or previous education in English-speaking institutions.

NCLEX-RN Exam: Passing the NCLEX-RN is essential. Once your credentials are approved by the state board, you’ll be eligible to sit for this exam.

Visa Sponsorship: Many foreign-trained nurses are recruited by agencies or healthcare facilities that sponsor them for an employment visa, usually an H-1B or EB-3 (Employment-Based Green Card) visa.

2. Canada

Credential Assessment: Canada’s National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) is the first step. The NNAS evaluates education, licensing, and experience and produces an advisory report for the nursing regulatory body in the province or territory where you wish to work.

English or French Language Proficiency: You may need to demonstrate language skills, often through IELTS, CELBAN (for English), or TEF (for French).

Provincial Nursing Exam: Once your credentials are accepted, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN or, in Quebec, the OIIQ exam (Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec) if you’re looking to work in that province.

Registration and Licensing: After passing exams, you can apply for registration and licensing in your chosen province.

3. Australia

Qualification Assessment: Nurses must apply to AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) for an evaluation. AHPRA assesses qualifications, experience, and language proficiency.

English Proficiency: Requirements include passing the IELTS, OET (Occupational English Test for healthcare professionals), or PTE Academic.

Bridging Program: If your nursing qualifications do not meet Australian standards directly, AHPRA may require you to complete a bridging program or an Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) before licensing.

Work Visa: You’ll need to secure a visa to work in Australia, such as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) or Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) for permanent residence.

General Tips for All Countries

Research Specific State/Provincial Requirements: Requirements vary by region, especially in the U.S. and Canada.

Prepare for Exams: These can be challenging, so studying for the NCLEX or similar exams is key.

Utilize Recruitment Agencies: Many agencies offer visa sponsorship, exam preparation, and placement services for foreign-trained nurses.

With the right preparation and guidance, foreign-trained nurses can successfully transition into these healthcare systems.