Frequently Asked Questions
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What’s the first step to migrating to the U.S?
The first and most crucial step to migrating to the U.S. is “Decision.” Your decision to migrate and work in the U.S. is the most important first step followed by a commitment to stick to the process. The road ahead is full of challenges, but it is well worth it. With “Decision” the mindset is shifted to the commitment to challenging work and discipline.
I made my Decision to migrate to the U.S., what do I do next?
We suggest reading from various sources to have the right information. Hearing from friends is different from reading and staying informed.
Some important sites to visit:
https://www.ncsbn.org/index.htm
In order to practice as a nurse in the U.S. you must have an RN license. The RN License is given to a graduate nurse who passed the NCLEX.
How can I take the NCLEX? I am not in the U.S.?
. First, you need to apply to a specific State where you want to take the board exam. Each State has a unique requirement for nursing candidates. It is important to read the guidelines and requirements once you decide on which state you want to take the test. There are testing sites outside of the U.S. such as Philippines, US Mariana Islands ( Saipan), UK, Middle East.
The requirements for NCLEX are too confusing. Is there a way to get some help?
We understand the complexities of the NCLEX Application. We can help.
Also, there are third-party organizations that offer NCLEX assistance services and Visa Screening for a fee.
I am offered FREE for everything to apply. The agency will pay for everything. Is this true?
There’s a saying that goes “Nothing is Free”. At the outset, it looks inviting to take the Free offers but each of the Free offers comes with an Agreement to pay in return for the Freebies. It is important to read and understand the agreement. There are three different ways to come to the U.S. via Gree Card Sponsorship. Every nurse must know the differences between those three before deciding.
Should I go Direct Hire or through an Agency?
Direct Hire means the health care organization (HCO) recruits directly from the source country without an Agency. These are usually the larger teaching hospitals that have an internal team to handle their international recruitment including the legal team. The nurse is dealing directly with the HCO. There are pros and cons to this model, but it can be a great one especially when the nurse wants training and stability. Sometimes, the nurse is responsible for their own follow-up directly with the HCO and licensing organizations.
What’s the difference between Placement Agency and Staffing Agency?
This is a very important question as this is what most nurses are not clear about. A Placement Agency and Staffing Agency can be one company that provides both services. A Placement Agency acts as a middleman for the HCO. The HCO relies on the Agency for outsourcing their recruitment, sometimes working with multiple agencies depending on how large the HCO is. The nurse is the employee of the HCO.
A Staffing Agency hires nurses who will be employed by the agency to be used for temporary staffing or traveling assignments. The nurse will be contacted by the agency to not just one but multiple HCOs throughout the contract. This model is sometimes not the best for a new nurse coming to the U.S. because of the demands of contracted HCOs for experienced nurses to offer them the relief that they need for the time being. Foreign nurses do require some adjustment period when they arrive and there are times when this can be challenging.
How long is the contract with the HCO or Agency? What happens if I do not finish the contract?
Most contracts are for 3 years. There are some that are 2 years but mostly 3 years. The HCOs and agencies are investing heavily in the recruitment of every nurse. The cost for every hire is extremely high. It is fair to keep your contract and move to the next job after completing it. Somme agencies are charging hefty fees for breaching the contract. We suggest reading the terms of your contract before signing.
Breaching the contract damages both the nurse and the agency’s reputation. The U.S. has turned to foreign nurse recruitment to help ease the burden of the nursing shortage. We want to show U.S. employers, that we are loyal, dedicated, and hardworking professionals.
How long does it take to get to the U.S.
It depends on what stage you are at in the process. Your decision to come to the U.S. and take the NCLEX to Immigration Process can take an average of 12-18 months.
Do I need hospital experience to apply?
Most HCOs require a minimum of 1-2 years of bedside experience. However, as the shortage worsens, some HCOs are looking into new grad training programs which means nurses without experience can be considered, especially the long-term care facilities. We suggest that you gain some bedside experience while waiting for your NCLEX and Visa Processing.
Who can I speak to about my interest to migrate in the U.S.
You can reach out to us via email or phone and speak to one of our Nurse Case Specialist. When you become a part of our team, you will be assigned to a Nurse Case Specialist who will be your “to-go” person for any questions and concerns.
How can I learn more about your Agency?
Please join our Facebook Group and join our online seminar series for valuable tools and information. There is nothing more important than being informed properly.