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Nurses who wish to obtain a green card, immigrant visa have several tests to complete. These are listed in US immigration laws. In order to file the first step of the visa process, the I-140, there must be proof of CGFNS score of 400 or a nursing license in the state of hire. A nursing license in all states requires NCLEX examination. Many states also require the CGFNS exam of all foriegn nurse applicants. There are a a few states that do not.

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From the time of the filing of the I-140, we are estimating approximately, one year. The I-140 requires CGFNS or US nursing license. After the filing of the I-140, the candidate may need to take the TOFEL and TSE. Also, the nursing school transcripts must be sent from the college to the CGFNS ICHP for review. In addition,packet three must be signed and submitted. All of this is put together for a Visa Screen from ICHP... which the candidate must have at the last step, the Embassy interview. Each of these pose the risk of delays, if there are any complications.

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The US immigration process for Philippine nurses currently takes at least one year from the time the I-140 is filed. It does require the nurse have proof of a score of 400 minimum on the CGFNS examination or be licensed in one of the states of the USA as well as a US employer sponsor. Any of our nurse hires may work in any position in any country during this time of processing. Please keep us informed as to your address. In addition, our attorneys may arrange your embassy interview in the country you are working. However, when the visa is issued to the nurse, you must travel to USA within 6 months according to law or the visa is invalid. In addition, CHW-AZ requires our new nurse hires to start work as soon as possible. The nurse who does not arrive within the time allowed for the visa, would have broken their contract. This means the nurse must finacially reimburse CHW-AZ for the monies spend in their behalf.

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This poses a challenge! CGFNS is also given in Eygpt and Jordan. You can review the cities by going to the CGFNS web site, see our Related Links. In addition, many Philippine nurse's take an annual trip home to Philippines. Perhaps arrange your trip during the test day. CGFNS is given 4 times yearly. Application must be submitted at least several months in advance of the test. A Philippine nurse might also travel to the USA, if eligible for a US Tourist Visa. In addition, the NCLEX exam is given in US Territories. Saipan does not require a US Tourist Visa to enter for a short visit.

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A nonimmigrant in the H-1B category is an alien who is coming temporarily to the U.S. to perform services in a "specialty occupation". The alien is qualified through the appropriate degree, or through a combination of education and experience equivalent to that degree. The worker may be entering the U.S. for the first time or may already be working in the U.S., but pursuing a change of employer. The foreign worker must prove that he or she is qualified for the specialty occupation and the particular job offered. One method is to obtain a credentials evaluation of their foreign university degree, to show that it is equivalent to that of a U.S. degree. If the worker is already in the U.S. and holds a valid nonimmigrant status, the H-1B visa can be extended and revalidated in the U.S. If, on the other hand, the worker is not in lawful status, or resides abroad, the H-1B visa must be obtained through a U.S. Consulate. Since the H-1B visa is considered a temporary visa, there is a limitation on periods of stay. The initial periods of stay may be approved for up to 3 years (usually depending on the occupation and/or the needs of the employer). And after that, another 3 years are available, by filing forms for and extension of stay. After the six years, the worker must spend one year outside the U.S. before being entitled to another H-1B visa. However, many workers take steps to obtain permanent residence (the Green Card) during their initial stay.

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Permanent residence status, symbolized to many people by the so-called "green card", which is actually pink, confers on foreign nationals the right to live and work in the U.S. without time limitations. The two most common ways to obtain permanent residence is by close family ties to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or through employment with a U.S.-based employer. For purposes of this discussion, the employment based visa will be our focus. There are two main phases to the process. Phase I: The alien must be sponsored by the employer, who files a petition with INS to have the alien classified as a person qualified to immigrate. Phase II: Once the alien is found qualified to immigrate, he or she may proceed to apply for permanent resident status. This can been done through Consular Processing or by Adjustment of Status. Once the immigrant visa is issued, the permanent resident may then travel freely on the visa, and my accept employment without restrictions. It is not clearly stated, but we recommend that the foreign worker remain employed by the sponsoring employer for at least six (6) months after the visa is issued to show good intent regarding the employment relationship.

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I have no status to answer questions for the Philippine Registration Commission.

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Yes. NCLEX® is the same for all US states. However, since you must apply through a state, you can apply through California and then take the NCLEX® in Saipan. However, California will no longer issue a license without a social security number. If you plan on using your license in lieu of the CGFNS exam, then you must have a full and unrestricted RN license in the state of the US employer sponsor.

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Yes. Each situation is unique. I need to learn more about your situation. I will email you privately and try to assist you.

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No. Only the nurse who is adjusting their status, can use the special exception of 180 days allowed to adjust to a work based immigrant visa. Does not apply to family members.

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I have no knowledge of this, see other questions above.

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See my responses above to the other people asking a similar question.

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For what country? The USA does not post results of licensure examinations. I have no special knowledge about other countries such as the Philippines.

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I cannot assist you.

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I beleive you must have been a license holder in your country of origin. Since only 40% of foreign educated nurses pass NCLEX® on first exam and repeat takers, only 16%, you are not likely to pass NCLEX® if y ou are unable to pass licensure exam in your home country. Can you take a review course in the Philippines to help you with this exam? Are you a nervous test taker? High anxiety can lead to impaired performance. Good luck in the future.

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Go to my new web site www.nurseimmigrationusa.com and read the article on NCLEX® . It will explain this to you.

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You will need to direct your question to the CGFNS, not to me. CGFNS will accept fax or email, In my experience, these delays are usually related the the PRC not sending your license verification. Have you passed TOEFL and has TOEFL sent the score to CGFNS? That will also delay the issuance of your certificate.

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You must have a license in the Philippines. Therefore, you will need to wait until you have a Philippine Nursing license.

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I assume you are asking me about the Philippines, as the USA does not post RN licensure exam results. I have no special knowledge of these matters in the Philippines. I suggest you contact that agency.

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Congratulations to you and your wife. I do not believe this happy event will pose a problem related to your immigrant visa. You will want to inform your immigration attorney. I am sure you are planning to process a green card for your spouse and eligible dependents. This baby is and will be an eligible dependent. When you have the birth certificate, a notification and copy would go to the attorney.

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You must apply to take the NCLEX® through one of the Boards of Nursing in one of the states of the USA. Many of the states require that all foriegn nurse graduates have passed the CGFNS exam, with a score of 400 or better. Some of the states such as California, New Mexico and New York (there are more) do not require this exam. Most states will require the foreign nurse applicant to have the foriegn nursing school transcripts of the nurse applicant, reviewed by the CGFNS. They also have the CGFNS validate the license of the nurse in their home country. This is through the Credntial Evaluation Service of the CGFNS. Guam or Saipan are just locations where there is a test center that gives the NCLEX®. When completing the NCLEX® application, the nurse applicant simply indicates which test center they will take the test. It does not matter which state you are applying through, you can test at any qualified test center. They key is the approval of the state. It is the state that appoves the applicant to qualify to take the exam.

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The California Board of Nursing will provide a license using the employer sponsor Tax ID number. However, if your tourist visa is expired, then you must return to the Philippines. You are at risk from being banned for up to 10 years, to return to US, if you remain in the US out of status. If you were a CGFNS passer,and a US employer sponsor has filed the I 140 in the past, then you should contact the immigration attorney that your employer used in your behalf. However, if you planned on using the Calif RN license to obtain an employer, who would then file the I 140 in your behalf, that cannot happen if you are not LEGALLY present in the USA. I will be happy to assist you, once you are back in the Philippines. If you can reenter, in a legal status, later this year. Let me know what you decide.

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Although our hospital is not currently actively recruitin, I am still accepting resumes. I have several other hospitals within CHW that are interested in receiving referrals from St. Joseph. I would receive your friends resume and then review it. If she has the qualifications needed, I would try and submit her resume to another CHW hospital.

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You could qualify for an adjustment of status from the non-work visa to a work visa. You must pass either CGFNS exam or the NCLEX®. Then the employer can file the I-140. When it is approved, then the adjustment of status and EAD is filed. You can expect to have a work permit (Interim) in 90 days after the EAD is filed. We require the nurse to be here in our city. If you send me your resume and email me, I can refer you to a nearby, CHW hospital in California?

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Sorry. I have no special knowledge of CGFNS or scores of nurses. You must communicate with that agency directly.

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I would suggest on-line internet review and books.

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Sounds like a great resource for nurses in Kuwait.

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When the foreign nurse applies through a state to take NCLEX®, it can take 4 to 6 months. The nurse must have the transcripts from the nursing school and the nurisng license reviewed by either the CGFNS or the state board. Then the adjustment of status can take at least 6 months until there is a work permit.

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Please read the article I wrote in this web, called NCLEX® for Foreign Nurses – A guide. All articles are in the web section titled "Downloads." If you have questions after you read this, please contact me.

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Yes. He must have graduated from a nursing program which the CGFNS deems "Equivalent to US nursing program" and he must also have a valid and unrestricted license to practice nursing in the nurses home country. I have a few Philippine nurse applicants who were previously Philippine MD. Also, for MD immigration, their is a lot of good information at the web site of leading health care immigration attorney, Carl Shusterman.

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This is to broad a question: There are many factors involved with nurse immigration to the U.S.

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I will investigate your angel ambassador. Let us know when you have received notice of your examination results from the CGFNS. Good luck!

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Yes. You need to have the TSE REveiw several weeks prior to taking the TSE examination. The agency has been asked to assist you with registration and payment. Please contact their offices. If you have any problems,let us know. Good luck!

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At this time, you must use the Exodus HR computers in their offices to study your CD from Kaplan. You will paricipate in a five day intensive/lecture review with our group in June. On day 4 of this review, you will take a computerized post-test, similar to the NCLEX®. This Kaplan post test will assess your likelihood of passing NCLEX®. You must obtain an acceptable score inorder to be flown to Guam or Saipan. You will have an additional 30 days in which to study and pass this post test. Then you will go to inactive status. At this time, I do not know if Kaplan will send instuctors to Baguio for any live lectures. Exodus is going to investigate that possiblity.

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Yes. Each situation is unique. I need to learn more about your situation. I will email you privately and try to assist you.

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Please explain your question. Are you asking how to start an agency that provides nurse staffing?

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Will Answer Question Soon!!

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I am not familiar with the requirements of the Board of Nursing in Washington state. Some states do require a social security number. Have you looked at their web site? If you are in the USA, you can obtain a US Employer sponsor. If you are in the USA, I would like to talk with you.

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Yes, I can help your sister. She will need her TOEFL, for an I 140 AND A US EMPLOYER SPONSOR. Her resume must indicate what clinical areas she has worked, the bed size of the unit and the hospital and duration of experience. Special skills in IV or equipment should be identified. If she does the resume in WORD, she can attach it to an email to me and I will be able to open it and read it. I will then circulate her resume amongst hiring managers within CHW.

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Not all states require a social security number. California does not nor does New Mexico. If you apply for NCLEX® through a state that does not require a social security number, then you can choose Guam or Saipan as your preferred testing site. Tests are given 5 to 6 days per week, depending upon the test center. The nurse receives an approval from NCLEX® and then calls to make an appointment.

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Only the applicant can inquire with the CGFNS. I work for a US employer and no special status to obtain information in behalf of CGFNS applicants. I would suggest that you go to the CGFNS web site and send them an email or fax. Good luck.

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The next exam date for the CGFNS is NOv 2002. Application deadlines for this date are in August. You can get more information at the CGFNS web site which is hyperlinked in this web site. See Related Links.

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I have no knowledge of this.

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You will notice that this web site has a link to the CGFNS. You can to the their web site and download an application or you can email them for an application. The next scheduled test, is for Nov 02. The results will not be avail until Jan 03. You should consider NCLEX® in Saipan (no tourist visa required). It is much more valuable for a US employer than the CGFNS. Good luck!

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Arizona does not require a social security license for foreign educated nurses based overseas. You will get a social security number after arrival in US with proper work permit. Other states do require this social security number at the time of application and this can pose a problem for the nurse who has never been to USA and cannot apply until all required goverment forms has been provided.

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Catholic Healthcare West is an organization of 44 hospitals, owned by the nuns in orders such as Sister of Mercy and other orders. These hospitals are located in California, Arizona and Nevada. I am an employee and my title is foriegn nurse recruiter and I am also a Registered Nurse. An individual who wishes to be considered for employment would complete an application. These are available online at CHW Employment. Overseas, foreign educated healthcare workers have special requirements to meet in order to qualify for work permit and visas. Each category is different. For some positions at some hospitals, CHW can assist with the visa and work permits.

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If you have sufficient time left on your tourist visa, then I recommend you enroll in a good NCLEX® review. I would apply to take the NCLEX®. You can take the test for a state that does not require the CGFNS exam, in order to license. California, New Mexico are both such states. You do not need to travel to those states. You can test at any test center, no matter what state that you are applying. It is all the same test. But, a nurse applicant must apply through a state to sit for NCLEX®. You can also adjust your status, with an RN and a US employer, right here in USA. It is a very fast route to a working visa, for a foreign educated RN who is currently in USA on a non work visa.

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I currrently show that you have passed the CGFNS and we have filed your papers. I do not show that you have taken the TOEFL and TSE? What is your status on completing these requirements? Has Exodus been communicating with you? How can I help you? Meladee

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Maria Dymphna, How are you making contact with Exodus? Is it by text message or leaving message on phone or talking to a person? I will also look into this issue and determine what the problem might be.

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yes. Go to Contact Us, the last button to left on the web page.

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In the USA, lists are not published. This information is considered confidential. Only the test taker is notifed and it is done by mail and in some cases there is a telephone option. The test taker would of written on the application, the address to report the results. I have found that mail from USA to Philippines can take up to 3 weeks. Maybe the results will come in the mail soon.

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YOu must contact the Philippine agency.

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I cannot help you.

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If an employer will hire you, you can be out of status for up to 180 days when you are adjusting from a non work visa ( tourist) to an employment based visa. The problem for you is to find a knowledgeable employer who understands these immigration processes. What state are you in?

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Ask friends in Philippines for Philippine exams. I do not know. There are many review centers. CHW currently uses only Kaplan in PI.

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Send an email with your resume.

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I do not know about school nurse role in the Philippines.

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Do you have a question?

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A aforeign nurse can apply for an immigrant visa with either the CGFNS exam or the NCLEX®. You do not need to take both exams. However, if you are a CGFNS exam passer, who does come to the USA, the nurse will need to pass NCLEX® to become an RN. Therefore, I recommend to nurses that plan on taking the NCLEX® to use that test for the immigrant visa.

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PLease go the link on this web site for the CGFNS. I know the next exam is in NOv and the last day to apply is August 14th. The schedule is on the CGFNS web site.

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Yes. I will do that.

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No. I will need several months to work on this. My first priority is my trip to the Phiippines to meet with our previously hired nurses. I leave July 9th and I return July 28th. Upon my return, I will be contacting other CHW hospitals to determine their interest. In the meantime, I believe you must apply for another TOEFL. This test is given in KSA, Jordan and Cairo for those in the middle east.

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Where are you located? What city would you be living in during your review?

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I know there are actual reveiw programs for this in the Philippines. I would suggest a review program in order that you have the advantage of a independent assessment of your english weakness and knowledge. Such an assessment is impossible with totally self study.

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California is now requiring the social security number. Sorry! I will do some research and may soon publish an article on this subject.

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Apply for the NCLEX® through another state such as ARizona. You can still take the exam in California, but Arizona does not require social security card or CGFNS. Then work in Arizona for one year and then transfer to California. But...you will love it very much in Arizona.

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It would be recommended for you to gain some work experience in an acute care hospital. Most employers prefer the nurse to have some experience and do not want to hire a brand new graduate from a foreign country.

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I do not know of any, but I have never been to Dubai. However, you can do online review. NCLEX® has inexpensive review on-line. You can purchase review books with CD-ROM online for NLCEX. My nurse friends tell me the NCLEX® review books are helpful also for CGFNS. Good luck!

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YOU will need to address this question to the CGFNS. However, it usually takes at least 2 months before nurses start to receive their results.

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I do not know the answer to this question.

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What exam are you speaking of? I cannot answer your question.

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Sorry, It was not me. But I did leave a message on your phone machine today, 08/23/02. I will happy to talk with you as soon as we "connect!"

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Carl Shusterman has written the Director of the INS to request that INS accept the "temporary" Calif license inorder to file the I-140. However, you cannot file the I-140 do you have an US employee sponsor? If not, consider Arizona. Arizona does not require the social security number. You can apply to Arizona, and then your NCLEX® passing score, will be transferred to ARizona. You can get a Arizona RN license. Arizaona just began accepting non-CGFNS test passers for licensure LAST WEEK! Are you planning on adjustment of status, if so, send me a resume and I can help you find an employer.

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Two of the top schools are University San Tomas and Univ of Philippines. But, other Philippine nurses might have other schools also.

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Yes. I believe that will be sufficient. However, the true test will be when the CGFNS receives your application.

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I do not have a chart or anything. And, state laws change frequently. For example, Arizona just dropped the CGFNS exam as a requirement Aug 1, 2002. California is one state as if New Mexico. I know these because they are all neighbors to me in Arizona. Search at the web site of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

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All US states require the nurse pass the NCLEX®. However, some states also require that a foreign educated nurse pass the CGFNS in order to apply to take NCLEX®. I know both California, Arizona and New Mexico do not require the CGFNS exam, in order to take NCLEX®. They all require some type of official review of your transcripts from your nursing school. Visalaw.com might have a chart on this. Also, you can look up each state individually at the web site for the National Council State Boards of Nursing web site. Once you have an RN license in the state of your US Employer sponsor, a I-140 petition can be filed. Then after other processing you will receive a valid work permit.

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I am not the CGGNS and I cannot obtain this information. However, on the CGFNS web site, they have a new telephone service. I can tell you that with our foreign nurse hires, this type of delay is usually one of two problems. The first problem is that the licensing board in the nurses country, has not verified their status. The second common problem is the TOEFL has not been received by the CGFNS and they cannot issue the certificate . Keep trying to reach them! It is also possible that it was mailed, and did not reach you?

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No. I think it means the mail is late? Are you in a state which offers the 72 hour toll call to get NCLEX® test results?

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If you are adjusting status from a non work visa such as the tourist visa, to an employment based visa, such as the green card...you can be out of status up to 180 days. You must take a very good review course. Our hospital uses Kaplan Centers NCLEX® review and we are having a high pass rate for our foreign nurse hires. You will not be able to legally work or stay in USA unless you pass the NCLEX®. What state are you in? California has created a big problem as of July 8th. They are no requiring social security number before the permanent RN license is issued. Unfortunately, the social security administration will not issue the card until the person has a valid work permit.

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You can go to the Arizona Bd of Nursing web site and send a request for "Application for licensure by examination-Foreign Nurse Graduate." One of the requirements will be for you to obtain the Health Sciences Course by Course Report from the CGFNS-CES. That application is downloadable from our web site and their is a hyperlink in NurseLink on our web for you to go to the web site and study the requirements. Once the CGFNS has declared your education equivalent, then you must proceed with other requirements. See both articles I wrote one on NCLEX® a guide to foreign educated nurses and the other on Guam and Saipan test sites. Each state requires their own license. Sometimes you can transfer licensure easily and sometimes it is more difficult. If you initially work in Arizona and have a social security number, you will be able to transfer, with fees, your license to California. Good luck.

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I you have a valid social security number, then I assume you have a valid immigration status that allows employment. So, you do not need immigration assistance, you need to get your California RN? If you are in the US on a non-work visa, then you can convert to a green card with a US employer/sponsor and get your EAD ( work permit) within 90 days. I cannot immagine why you have waited for over one year. The adjustment of status requires a CGFNS pass or NCLEX®. If you do not have either of those, then you can concentrate on getting your CGFNS exam and or NCLEX®. If you have a valid status to work and you are legal to work, then the only hurdle you are facing is to acheive the RN and earn higher wages. If you are here legally, and want to work as an LVN while you study and prepare for NCLEX®... you must pass the LVN license exam inorder to work as an LVN. If you are not a graduate of a LVN program, you must meet the requirements to be allowed to take the LVN exam. You could also work as a nursing assistant, if the LVN is not possible. Good luck!

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Ther results of the Nov exam are usually available by Jan of the next year. However, to file the I-140 ( Green Card petition) the nurse must have both the CGFNS core of 400 or above AND a passing score on the TOEFL. Delays from the CGFSNSis issueing the required CERTIFCATE are usually related to no reciept of the required PRC license validation or the failure of the Nurisng School transcript to reach the CGFNS. This amount of time is sooooo looooong. I would like to see the CGFNS speed up the reporting of the test results!

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It is better if we have an appt for a telephone call. We would do this by email, as you may not want your phone number to be public. We try and remove phone numbers, to protect the person writing the question. You can go to Contact Us, and we can begin to email, that is not public, like the Nurse Board. Our business phone number is at the bottom lower right of each web page. But, again, it is best that we have an appt time.

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I am sorry to tell you that a nurse who wishes to immigrate to the US as a NURSE, must pass either the CGFNS or the NCLEX®. Perhaps she could apply for a US tourist visa from US Embassy in Manila and come to USA to take NCLEX® , while visiting her parents. I recommend taking the Kaplan PI NCLEX® review course, prior to departure for USA. Our hospital is very happy with the success of our Philippine Nurses. Of course, there may be other equally successful NCLEX® review programs in the PHilippines.

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I would investigate the options for your daughter before you buy a contract. If your daughter will endearvor to pass the CGFNS or the NCLEX® in Saipan or Gaum, she will find MANY Employers based in the US who will pay her legal fees and other expenses to come to the USA to work. These US employers will most likely require the nurse sign a contract for about 3 years. There is really no need to pay a high fee to a recruitment agency. Many US hospitals will pay the agency fees if the nurse has a minimum of 2 years experience in a hospital. Good luck!

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You must have some type of status? Tourist status? Or expired tourist status? This is critical, because if you are truly "illegal alien" then you must consult a qualified immigration attorney.

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Interesting! I have just begun to assist a nurse from Chile this week. This nurse has a Green Card from her marriage to a US Citizen. She last worked as a nurse, in Chile, in 1999. Her first step is to obtain the CGFNS- Credential Evaluation of her nursing school transcripts. Then, if the education is deemed equivalent, she will take TOEFL. Then, she can apply in Arizona, where she lives and plans to work. The State Bd of Nursing in ARizona, does not require the CGFNS exam apply. They do require the credential eval as well as TOEFL for those foreign educated nurses from programs that were not taught in English. YOu would first start with the Alabama Board of Nursing. You need to read their application requirements for foreign educated nursing applicants. Good luck!

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Sorry. I do not have such information. I would suggest you go to the archives of the Manila Bulletin or the Daily Inquirer? I know they are both on the internet. I did notice that they both publish lists of exam passers....This is not ever done in the USA.

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The CGFNS is currently given 3 times per year world wide. They publish the dates in the CGFNS web site. I have a link on this web. NCLEX® is given 5 days a week, year round, except holidays. Nurses must apply through a states to take NCLEX®, then receive the ATT. Then the ATT gives the nurse registration instructions. The nurse has 90 days in which to take the NCLEX®. The nurse must call and schedule the NCLEX® within the 90 days. The next CGFNS exam is in NOvember 2002, the applicant registration closed on August 14th. The results will not be available to the CGFNS Nov 2002 test taker, until at least January 2003....after the deadline for the next scheduled exam.

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GO to FAQ number 46. Click Here!

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US Employer sponsor and she must have the visa screen issued by the CGFNS/ICHP for the last step, the Embassy Interview. The nurses qualify for the green card as an "Employment Based Immgrant Visa."

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Several key points. First Saipan does not require a tourist visa. The test site is smaller, with less computers therefore can only schedule 6 ( I think) test takers per day. Guam does require the US tourist Visa but can accomodate more test takers. By going to Guam, the foreign national has PAPERWORK and expense. Other than that, there should not be any other concern. The test center should provide needed services to the nurse taking the test.

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Age 40....that is still young! I am not familiar with your geographical area. However, all Nurse Practitioner Programs would be accredited by the NY Bd of Nsg. I would assume that the Bd maintains a list of programs. Perhaps start at their web site. If these are not listed, then call their phone number? I believe that most NP programs are post RN programs? Good luck.

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If a foreign educated nurse will ONLY work in California, then this is their only option. Although California does not require the CGFNS in order to apply to take NCLEX®...California will not issue the license to a nurse who does not present a valid social security number. The nurse will receive a notice of passing NCLEX® in a letter. The INS will not accept this letter in order to file for the I-140 Petition. The INS requires a full and unrestricted license in the state of the employer sponsor, or the CGFNS certificate ( ie, CGFNS exam of 400 or more and the TOEFL). Carl Shusterman, in his web site, indicates that he has written the INS headquarters to request the INS accept this letter and other temporary license from other states. We are all hoping the INS will change or California will change. However, other states may be an option rather than California. The foreign educated nurse needs to use the internet and go the that states nurisng board and read. A chart of summary of EVERY state is not available to my knowledge.

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You would contact one the thousands of nursing programs in the USA and get them to send you minimum entrance requirements and application to their school. You would want a program who works with international students and can issue a F-1 Visa under I-130 Program. It will be expensive, and some schools the tuition is $8,000 US dollars per year and also housing, food and books....and it can be much higher!

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No, unless you want to adjust from L2 to a green card. Then you would need a employer sponsr, and when the attorney files the I-140 concurrently with the adjustment of status and the EAD, the EAD will be issued in 90 days or less. With the EAD, you would be eligible for the SS# and then can get your full RN license from California....and start work.

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INS status has no impact upon the state requirements for RN license. Please check with NY web site, I have the NCSBN web hyperlinked here on this web site. Go to NurseLinks. Then go the NY. I believe NY is a non-CGFNS exam state. Many times the states that have a TOEFL requirement will have which nurse nationalities must take this english exam. I cannot determine your nationality, but check it in the NY Bd of Nsg web site.

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CGFNS is given world wide in specific locations, three times per year. You can read the details at their web site. See my Nurse Links for their web site. NCLEX® or CGFNS is a requirement for nurse immigrants as well as the Visa Screen and its English requirments.

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The employers that we represent to assist in finding qualified Philippine nurse shoulder all these expenses. ( We will be sending our nurse hires to Saipan or Guam not USA for NCLEX®). The employers do require a three year contract, in recognition of these expenses, which will total to over $15,000 US.

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I am sorry for that. I know that they closed for the Holidays when I departed on 12/17 after our most recent job fair. I suggest that you go to the Kaplan web site. There are 4 Kaplan Centers in the Philippines. In Cebu, Makati, Quezon City, and Manila. You will need to contact them directly as we only utilize these centers and are not part of this company.

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You need to go to the web site for the Missouri Board of Nursing. You can find it on the NCSBN web site. It is hyperlinked in Nurse Links.

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I am not sure of your question? You will need to do some research using the resource of this web site, as to how to immigrate to USA.

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You have done a lot! However, I am sad to report that the MELAB has been discontinued for Visa Screen purposes as of 11/127/02. Your Jan 03 test results willnot be forwarded to CGFNS/ICHP! I just read this several days ago and verifed it at their web site. If you pass the NCLEX®, please let me know. I will need your resume and you will need to let me know how flexible you are with location in USA. It also depends upon your recent clinical experience and nursing specialization. Good luck.

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I am sorry but I have no knowledge of dentistry or equivalency between US and India.

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Not through Bayani, as they are only in the Philippines. I can assist some nurses and some nurses are able to find an employer on their own. Have you tried applying at hospitals in your area?

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Yes. You must apply through one of the US states and that state's Board of Nursing. Kaplan is a good review center and has locations in many cities.

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I do not know of a specific hospital that has gone to India. I do know that some have Adjustment of Status nurses from India, who are in US with H-1B spouse. There are many, many agencies in India, hoping to bring nurses to USA. My one reservation is a difficult to understand dialect. The agency of Modi Corp does provide dialect correction and training.

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Yes. Or MELAB, which is onlyh available in US and Canada.

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She should obtain the CGFNS certificate, ie pass CGFNS, TOEFL. Then, come to USA to visit you and look for a job and employer/sponsor.

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I would recommend you attend a large job fair such as Nursing Times, and look for a direct hire situation. Or, an agency that will arrange for direct hire with a US employer. I do not recommend the first several years of US employment that the foreign nurse is a "Travel Nurse." Some hospital employers attend the NUrsing Times job fairs. You could also travel to US on tourist visa and attend US job fairs, given by NurseWeek.

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You need to graudate and obtain your license. In addition, most of my employer clients want experienced foreign nurse graduates....therefore I receommend you work in your home country for several years. You need to take the CGFNS and get the certificate. Then, look for job fairs with US employers, depending upon the country you reside, you may need to travel to another country to attend a job fair.

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TOEFL,TWE and TSE are only good for a two year period for the Visa Screen. Once y ou have the Visa Screen,no expiration. Therefore, you should secure the Visa Screen from the CGFNS/ICHP as soon as you obtain the CGFNS Certificate.

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You are not eligible for the work visa with a PN nurse license. You may consider travel to US on a tourist visa, but you will not be eligible to work in any capacity. IF you feel your nursing education will prove equivalent to US, then you can apply to take the CGFNS exam in your country.

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The nurse qualifies for the green card on the basis of employment and must have a quaified US employer/sponosr. The family of thenurse who are spouse or children/dependents under the age of 21 will also qualify for a green card. The family must also have the petition filed and all INS fees paid and be screened and interviewed.

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The NCSBN , the body that represents all of the boards of nursing of the various states and territories of the US, did decide at the Aug 02, meeting to initiate international NCLEX® testing in 2004. It remains to be seen, what the initial countries for initial trial testing will be. This is not a fully supported move and even came under criticisim by various countries, who do not feel it is appropriate for the US agencies to test for USA licensure outside of their own borders. What do you think about this?

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Although the application form states that the ss# is mandatory/required, I have been told that the application will be accepted. The acutal license will be withheld until ss# is obtained. In lieu of the license,the succesful applicant will get a letter. The CA INS service center will accept the letter for the filing of the I-140.

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You can apply for CA license by examination but the timing of when you will get your ATT may take longer than expected. You can download the CA application, but you will need to ask for the fingerprint cards to be sent by mail. You can take the exam in Saipan or Guam...much easier to get US tourist visa. You can also apply for a tourist visa to travel to Calif, but usually only for those who have family to help them with expenses.

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No. You will need money for living, tuition,books and misc expense. In order to qualify for a student visa, you will need to show a close relative who can support you, unless you have a goverment stipend from China government.

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The nurses are given a Green Card which is a Permanent residence. Citizenship can be applied in 5 years. Eligible family members can acompany the nurse...being spouse and children under the age of 21.

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From the Philippines, 12 months after filing of the I-140 petition, if all other requirements and documents are submitted in a timely manner.

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If the Adj of Status and EAD is filed concurrently with the I-140, the EAD ( work permit) will take 90 days or less. The nurse can then work, while the immigrant visa process is taking place. The Green card will still take about 12 months.

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Yes. A nurse who only has the CGFNS exam, can get a Green Card Visa. Then, they take the NCLEX® after US arrival. Until they pass the NCLEX®, they might work at lower pay and less legal scope of practice. However, they can also be considered a "Graduate Nurse" as they are a graduate of an approved nursing program by virtue of the Visa Screen issued by the CGFNS. Some employers in some states have a higher category of job title for US Nurse graduates from the time of graduation until they pass the NCLEX®. The same category can be used for the foreign nurse. It is usually higher pay and a more meaningful nursing role, usually under the direct supervision of a RN. I personally recommend to both foreign nurses and the employer clients I serve, to have the nurse NCLEX® prior to departure for US.

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Only your nursing educated can be used. Each course must be compared by hour and topic to US type nursing programs. You must provide English translation of all your courses. Such a transcript review must be done by a US agency such as the CGFNS CES. Eventually, you will need to pass written and spoken English exams, also.

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I am sorry that I do not know the answer. It might be dependent upon the wording of the contract? Again, in questions of contract disputes, seek out an attorney. Sometimes, if you call the local Bar Association, they give referrals and the first 30 min can be a set fee.

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Pass CGFNS prior to coming and be sure that the transcripts will be approved. She will need family support to be prepared to stay and study for NCLEX®, pass and then search and interview for an job offer. She sounds as if she has wonderful resume. But, currently job fairs for the USA are not being held in South America, that I know of.

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This is the US Embassy Interview - packet 4...the old name. You will need the Visa Screen cerificate and all the other docments such as the medical exam clearance etc. Good luck.

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You will need to pass the NCLEX®, if you hope to interest a US employer...particularly in Texas. For nurses who are hoping to adjust status, my best advice is to pass NCELX...which means that you pay for this yourself.

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Graduate from an approved program, pass the license exam and requirements for licensure and obtain a quaified US employer sponsor....then meet the requirements of the Visa Screen.

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If you are in the USA, you should consider taking \NCLEX®, if you are interested in working in state that does not require the CGFNS. If you must take the CGFNS, due to the requirements of the state you wish to work, then you should consider paying this and completing this requirement prior to seeking a US employer sponsor. In fact, you may need to procure your actual USA RN license in the state of preferred employment. You are not likely to find a hospital sponsor without passing such tests. The employer will want the assurance that you can qualify. Good luck.

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The working visa you might be referred to is the H-1B. The H-1B is only to be used for jobs that REQUIRE a 4-year college degree. The usual nursing staff nurse job does not require the 4-year college degree. Therefore, the US Dept of Labor has ruled that staff nurse positions do not qualify. But, I know that some nurses have obtained these work visas...perhaps by error by the INS. Nurses who are in the US on the work visa, may be at risk of this error being discovered. Also, they are not in the favorable status as the nurse green card holder. The nurse who has the work visa, the family has a visa status (H-4) that is non-work eligible. In contrast, the nurse green card holder has the green card for the eligible family member. The work visa is for the three years, with extension possible and is tied to the employer and must apply to INS to change employment. The Green card holder is only tied to the inital sponsoring employer by virtue of the initial contract. I only work with green card status with our recruitment program.

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Yes. Local police and NBI.

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You will require a RN refresher course...both in the Philippines in order to eligible to obtain a current license...and in many US states. Also, most US employers want nurses with current knowledge and skills in nursing. Therefore after your refresher course, you will need to begin work in Nursing in the Philippines for at least one to two years. Remember...."the longest journey begins with the first step."

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It is not uncommon for agency nurses to be cancelled frequently. Unfortunately, many Philippine nurses are not truely aware of the differences between agency and direct hire by the employer. The best insurance is to get a two week to 28 day schedule from the agency. On your off work days, schedule yourself through a local registry agency or another hospital that has a float pool. That way, if your primary job cancels you, then you have other work scheduled. Do not beleive that the primary agency can not allow you to work another job. What you do on your time off is your business. You do not need to answer any questions on your day off. Get a cell phone and do not give it to your primary agency. Only give it to the float pool or daily registery that you will work extra. Do not answer the phone,on your day off except to those you wish to speak to !

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IN USA, discrimination on the basis of such factors as race, religion, gender, etc, are illegal under the protection of the US constitution. But, I know that such practices do happen. I do not feel that this lower pay is justified...on the basis of country of origin. I also do not feel it is ethical to charge the nurse to obtain a US position. However, it is also up to the individual to guard against such practices. Hopefully, this web site will educate nurses. With your friend, after two years, she/he may leave this employment and begin a new, more prosperous employment with a better hospital.

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Only the RN is qualified to apply for the Green Card, at this time. There is no working visa, that I know of, for LPN. All working visa called H-1B require the job filled by the foreign worker to be a BS degree.

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There is one test for all states, called NCLEX®. Once you take it and pass...you do not need to re-take the test. Just meet the other requirements as listed for the state in particular.

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You need to get expert opinion from a qualified immigration attorney. This is an area where I have no knowledge. Good luck.

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I do not beleive that you will get a refund from California, but you can try. This might mean that you will need to reapply to Arizona. There are other options if you have a valid SS#.

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As a nurse, you can only be sponsored after you have graduated from a nurisng program and obtained licensure or passed the CGFNS exam which will require the applicant to be licensed. So, until you complete your studies in nursing, it is best to remain on the F2. You will get one year practical training post graduation and it is in that phase that you can adjust your status with a willing US employer sponsor.

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Does the lower rate of pay represent some kind of payment for the expenses of immigration that the agency incurred? Otherwise, this may be an example of exploitation of a foreign worker, who did not know the salary standards, when applying abroad. This nurse may want to seek out the advice of an attorney, to determine the validity of this contract.

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Many foreign nurses apply from overseas? This is something that is your misunderstanding of the written instructions of NY? California, New Mexico, Arizona, Oregon are states that nurses can apply from abroad and these states are not requireing the CGFNS.

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CA, New Mexico and Arizona....also New York? There are more, but check the web site for state bds of nursing or the hyperlink in my web site for NCSBN,

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This would be a violation of immigration law and perhaps labor law. You could file a complaint with the INS. I would start with an attorney. If there are other nurses working with you in the same position, you could go together. Several years ago, a group of foreign nurse immigrants won a million dollar lawsuit against a large employer for the same thing. Many foreign workers are afraid to persue their rights, for fear of retaliation by the employer. That is how these things continue to happen. Please see an attorney about your rights under US laws. All of Nurse Immigration USA employers have agreed to pay the same wages. For example, if a nurse a five years experience in the Philippines and KSA, then they are paid the same as any hospital RN with five years experience. Each year counts same regardless of where the job was in the world. The foreign nurse had a total review of all the nursing education to determine that is was equivalent to a US nursing education. The nursing jobs in other countries may have less technoboly....but it is still basic nursing. We believe experience counts....

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If you have a green card...you are not tied to any employer as part of your immigrant status. However, you may have signed a contract with your agency. Read it carefully. However, as long as you are working the full time hours, then what you do on your TIME OFF, is no ones business! For example, if you are required to work 2 years for the agency...you only need to work the full time hours. After that, you free time is your time! Then when your 2 years contracted time is completed....Adios amigo! If you feel that this agency has not treated you respectfully, then you terminate and begin another more suitable professional position. This is America!

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Yes they are allowed. But you must agree and it must be a contract that you signed and agreed. If not, then the fee is not valid and you are not obligated. Our company contract has no fee for our employers but the nurse must agree to 3 years in recognition of the money spent by the employer to immigrate the nurse, about $15,000. Since you are only looking at 2 years and if the fee is modest, you must decide which meets your needs. You must say that each year is worth about $5000.00 US.

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You will need to take a RN Refresher course. These are given in community colleges and universities here in US. As you know, keeping up with advances and changes in medical and nursing practice is essential. Your knowledge is very outdated with a seven year period of being out of the medical field.

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That will vary by county within the state of California. Northern California being higher than Southern and cities being higher than rural areas. However, the highest you might expect is about $90,000....Kaiser and UC Hospitals with their newly negoitiated salary increases. The most senior nurse would be at $125,000. That is assuming that your non US expereince is considered equivalent. It is my opinion that it should be....good luck!

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Arizona, Oregon and New Mexico are three that I know of...there may be more. You must check the web site of that state.

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Either the CGFNS or the NCLEX®, depending on which test is more convenient to find a test site and other factors.

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It sounds as if you have the qualifications. If you could visit US to apply and personally interview that would be great. If not , there may be job fairs featuring US employers in NZ. Or you could look up employers in an internet site like NURSEWEEK and apply on your own. Good luck.

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Your depth of experience would be in pUblic health, so that is a possibility. Also, some hospitals may consider you with limited acute care. The best thing to do is to begin applying and interviewing employers...there are many job fairs in Philippines. Our company will likely have a public health employer in early 2003, coming to Manila. Watch the web site.

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I will not be working with China due to limited resources.

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Yes.

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Doctors do not qaulify as nurses and vice versa. The applicant must be graduated from an approved nursing program and be licensed in their country to practice nursing.

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You must have a work visa and/or work permit. You do not qualify with the tourist visa. You must adjust your status, if in the USA. If you are abroad, you must complete consular processing for the green card.

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The NCLEX® exam is given 5 to 6 days per week, every week. You can take the NCLEX® in July or August of 2003. Remember, you must apply through a state.

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Apply directly to the New Mexico Board of Nursing. How long it takes will depend on your qualifications and the time it takes for you to produce needed documents. You must read their web site to determine the many qualifications you must meet. If you get a license, then you must also get a work permit from the INS.

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Hospitals usually will provide financial assistance to those nurses they have hired. If you are a St. Joe's hire, then you need to make the request directly to them. If you are not, then you must apply and they are currently not taking additional foreign nurses as the previously hired nurses are now begining to arrive from the Philippines. You may consider other employers with a similar ethical approach to foreign nurses.

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Since you now have your ATT through another state, you will need to PASS NCLEX® and subsequently endorse into a state like Arizona. You might want to wait until you know which state will be your state of the employer/sponsor. That way, you will not waste money on a license on a state that you will not need. You are on the right track!

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You are asking about the process of credentialing. Some states like Calif, perform internal credentialing. Others use the CGFNS, CES. Depending upon how long it takes for your license verification and transcripts to arrive at the credentialing agency....about 3 months.

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Unless you have a issue of non-performance by your agency, it would appear as if you are almost approved for US departure. What reason for changing agencies and hospitals? For my part... would want to investigate your reason and also have a copy of your letter to your hosptial and to the agency, terminating your agreement. I would also need to review the conract or agreement you did sign with your agency and employer sponsor. Perhaps, if you have a complaint, the hospital who is your sponsor can assist you? I would tell you that most hospital employers have no clue as to how the recrutiment agency has failed to provide customer service to the nurse hire. Maybe the hospital needs the opportunity to correct the problem? You can email me privately?

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You will need either the CGFNS certificate or the NCLEX® in the state of the employer sponsor. That is the only option for the nurse to file the i-140 petition.

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REad the article I wrote on this web site, NCLEX® A Guide to Foreign Nurses.

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Have you got the wrong web site! I only can speak about nursing. Sorry.

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Check with Rajah on the requirements and for an extra fee, they will assist you. I had thought that for a Philippine National to travel to Saipan, that they roundtrip ticket was sufficient. But Rajah has a department to assist their customers with travel visas and other documents.l

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You could apply to a school that has I-20 status and get accepted. You would need financial resources in order to qualify. I do not know if you would need to go back to your country and then return.

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I have not heard anything to the contrary from my Calif. friends. The risk is the RFE or "request for evidence" that would stop the I-140 processing. However, the strategy is that the adjustment of status nurse when then have their ss# and RN license. This is only a strategy for adjustment of status and not consular processing.

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New York and a low cost flight. The NCLEX® is currently administered only in US and US territories. In 2004, there may be international testing that could occur in countries such as UK. There is a Kaplan in London for NCLEX® review and you can purchase review books on the internet.

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I would recommend you study the US Immigration requirements for the nurses who use the employment based immigrant visa as the mechanism to work in the USA. There is not a current VALID work visa for staff nurses. Then...get started with CGFNS or NCLEX®. I think you might want to take CGFNS unless you are able to travel to Guam, Saipan or USA to take NCLEX®.

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There is no separate process. You must meet all the requirments that all nurse immigrants are subject.

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There is a hyperlink to the web site of the CGFNS. You can download an application from this web site.

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Graduation from a US nursing school will not exempt you from the requirements of the employment based immigrant visa for nurses. (Which is silly in my opinion). However, you can use your New Jersey license, if your employer/sponsor is in New Jersey also. Depending upon which agency reviewed your transcripts and license validation, you may require another credentialing. That is because the CGFNS will only accept their own credentialing. Not any done by a state agency or other private credentialing agencies. You will need to obtain the Visa Screen Certificate.

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Bingo! You have identified the situation exactly. I have been told that CA employers, immigration attorneys and the BRN are working on a solution. I do hope it comes soon. In the meantime, go a few questions back to read my response to another question. It describes a strategy being used by some who are filing for adjustment of status. This strategy will not help those who are residing abroad, who can only do consular processing.

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You can take the tests and become eligible, but you must have a US employer sponsor for the employment based immigrant visa that the nurses use. Therefore, you can only proceed so far on your own. How do you get access to US employers? Country specific job fairs by US employers, recruitment agencies and when traveling to US to visit.

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To prepare for the CGFNS exam, you need to review using a US model of nursing care. You can buy books with CD's abd tgese are for sale at Amazon.com which is an internet store. In their mailing charges, they will mail international. Look under NCLEX® review books. You could also attend a CGFNS review school if these are available in your geographic location.

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With a US employer sponsor, you are now eligible for an employment based immigrant visa petition. ..A GREEN CARD. I do not know of the H-1. You will then need to complete the requirements of the Visa Screen Certificate, the TSE and various screeenings of your background ...prior to approval. You have completed the first requirements and now you should be of high interest to a US employer. Good luck!

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With the letter from the BRN indicating that you have passed NCLEX®...and will be eligible for a full license when you have a valid ss#, some immigrations attorney will file the I-140 petition concurrently with the EAD and Adj of Status. Within 90 days or less, you will have the EAD. Then you become eligible f or the SS#. You then get your license and then you start work. This is the strategy of some top immigration attorneys in CA. If there is an RFE, the nurse has the license, the ss# and the work permit. Of course, you must have an employer/sponsor.

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There is a internet based review that Kaplan has for those who study at home. There are also books available? YOu must devote yourself to study time each day....not easy to do in these hectic times. Does your school have a study center?

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Check with the state board of nursing? I do not know if you must also pay another application fee to the state board....I would think NO....but please check.

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The travel agency usually have one state where you will initially obtain the RN license. Then you will need to get another license when you are assigned to a new state. The travel nurse agency should have all that information for you.

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Since you do not have the ss#, the last time I checked, CA would not verify your license to ARizona, which means reciprocity is not an option. Therfore, you have to reapply to ARizona. You would complete the application for licensure by examination and attach the letter you received from CA, informing you that you past NCLEX® and will get your license when you have obtained the SS#. We have done this with a few nurses who were in your similar situation. But, please check with the CA BRN in the event things have changed....if they will verify your license, then you can endorse into AZ....less money.

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If the nurse does not have the CGFNS certificate to file the I-140, then the nurse must be fully licensed in the state of the employer/sponsor. The Adj of Status and EAD are filed concurrently with the I-140, for nurses here in USA.

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If your attorney had also submitted the EAD with the Adj of status, it does not matter how long it takes. The EAD (work permit) would be 90 days or less and then you can begin employment. Many times the EAD is faster than other approvals, since the July 24th changes by INS to allow for concurrent filing. The EAD is critical...it provides that you can begin working. Ask you attorney to file it ASAP...and not to wait for I-14- approval.

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You cannot file for reciprocity to any state, since CA will not issue you a full license. Therefore, you must make full application for licensure and pay full NCLEX® so you do not have to retake NCLEX®. In addition, if California will send your transcript review to Arizona, they will accept the credential evaluation done by California. EAD equals work permit and you will then be eligible to apply for the social security number. In order to get the EAD, you will need an employer sponsor in the state of the job. These employers will require a contract of 2 years to be your sponsor. PS-RFE is Request for Evidence. This is sent to your attorney when the INS finds required documnets missing. It stops your processing until such documents are provided.

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Very much so. Some nurses get very little in the way of financial assitance nor educational or other type of support. My company works with employers who provide both financial assistance and full resources and support to the foreign nurse hires. These hospitals and other healthcare employers hope that the nurse hires will stay long beyond the contract, perhaps a career. That type of loyalty is EARNED by employers who continue to be outstanding places for all nurses to work, whatever is the basis of their nationality.

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Then I would suggest that you also file the I140 petition for your spouse now. I am assuming that you are in the USA...his status is H-1B? And yours is H-4? Have you also filed for the EAD and Adju of Status...for both of you? It may be expensive, but necessay given your circumstances. Employment status is only an issue for the validilty of the visa, for those in the US. If your are processing abroad, then whether or not your husband is employed is irrelevant. It is your employment with a qualified US employer/sponsor that is the key. He can be unemployed now and for the duration of his life, as long as his wife has the green card.

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You need to be licensed in your home country. You should review the state nursing board of the state you will live with your fiancee. Look on their web site. Look for special instructions for foreign educated nurses who wish to apply for licensure by examination. You will then be able to determine the process for you to obtain a RN license. With your fiancee visa, you will obtain the work permit with your green card. But if you wish to work in the profession of nursing, then the Bd of Nursing in your financees state residence is the place for you to start. You can apply from your home country and start the process. If you need to have your transcripts from your school and license verification sent from the nursing regulatory board, then it will be easier for you while you are in your home country. Congratulations and Best Wishes.

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You really need to get an actual application packet. The fingerprint cards are of a special size and paper-heavy weight card stock. The NCLEX® application material is set up for scanning, with little circles that are filled in, etc. So, you need to get this in the mail. You can check the state you are interested in....remember...NCLEX® must be applied through one of the US state Boards of Nurisng...you cannot apply directly to NCLEX®.

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I you are able to travel to the USA on a non-work visa, and you are licensed in the state of the employer sponsor, you can adjust your status to an employment based immigrant visa. At the time the I-140 petition is filed, a concurrent filing of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and the Adjustment of status can be filed. The EAD will be approved in less than 90 days and the nurse can begin working. The MELAB can be taken in the US and is an alternative to the TSE. To be eligible for these procedures, the nurse needs to be licensed in the state of the hire/ ie the employer sponsor. The requirments are the states requirments of the state for a foreign educated nurse to obtain a license in that state. If you are licensed in New York, then you get a job offer in California, you must then apply for licensure in California. A nurse only needs to take and pass NCLEX® the first time, but as the nurse travels to work in other states, the nurse must meet each states individual and specific requirments.

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Their is no age limit. It is illegal for any employer or agency to limit work eligibility due to age, race, sex, religion in the USA.

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Not at this time. No work visa for nurses and only immigrant visa.

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You can pass NCLEX® and complete the required forms for California, but you will not be issued a license without a social security number. You can obtain a non-working social security number for purposes of obtaining this license. You must have a work permit (EAD) or other such proof of eligibility to work in USA, in order to obtain the needed social security number. Contact California BRN through their web site for information on application and fees. Good luck.

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As parat of the credentialing process, required in application for licensure for foreign educated nurses, the nurse must have a full an unrestricted license in their country. I would assume that to obtain such a license in the Philppines, you will need to apply for the examination, qualify for the examination and pass the examination and be issued a Philippine Nursing license by the PRC.

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If you are flexible about which state you will work, then you do not need to take the CGFNS exam in order to apply for NCLEX®. You may also be eligible to adjustment of status from your tourist visa ( not treaty used for UK, Europe nationals) to an employment based immigrant visa if you find an US employer/sponsor in the state you have the RN license. You will eventually need to pass required english exams for the Visa Screen, but if you are educated in english such as Philippines, India or Canada, you will not need the TOEFL to qualify for an Arizona RN license, for example. A tip: Start your application for licensure by exam through your chosen state in advance of your travel on the tourist visa. Provide for yourself time and funds for a good NCLEX® review. Good luck.

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Sorry...I personally have not worked with Vermont. All of our nurses are processed through California. Perhaps another reader to this board may respond to your inquirey.

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I do not have these email addresses. I would suspect that you may not get these institutions to assist you by email. First of all, you will most likely need to pay a fee. That will need to be in cash. I would receommend that you have a famiy member or a friend take the required forms to both of these institutions and pay the fees. Good luck.

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In some states, the school nurse be have additional courses and obtain a school nurse credential. In other states, they may not need this. Sometimes, the extra courses and credential is issued by the Dept of Education rather than the nursing board.

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All states require NCLEX®. Many require CGFNS, but not all. You must research the web site of each state. I do know that Calif, New Mexico , New Mexico, New York and Hawaii, are states that are non-CGFNS exam states. More important is the question of the social security number. It is better for a foreign educated nurse who plans on taking this test prior to having immigrated, to take the NCLEX® in a state that does not require the social security number.

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Most employers who are considering the hiring of foreign educated nurses will require strong english skills. The nurse from a country such as Costa Rica will need to take the CGFNS exam and as part of this exam, you will have your credentials evaluated by the CGFNS. With a pass on the CGFNS exam, the nurse will need to pass TOEFL. Once you have this certificate, you will be likely to interest a US employer.

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Good English, the CGFNS exam and TOEFL, or NCLEX® and appropriate experience related to the job description, and ability to qualify for the needed visa.

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I would wait until you complete your nursing program, graduate and receive your license. Not all nursing programs in Germany will be equivalent to US education model.

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I would recommend the CGFNS and it is given in UK. Go to their web site and it is hyperlinked in 'NurseLinks" on my web site.

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It is called the Philippine Registration Commission or PRC. They have offices in Manila and some provincial cities. I do not have the addresses, but I will get them and add them to the web site, but it will take about one week. My Philippine friends tell me it is better to have a friend or family perform this for you, as oppossed to mail.

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Jane, I must ask you to look this up. I am in Manila and my computer time is limitied! Go to the NurseLinks on this web. Go to NCSBN website. Look for section for all state boards of nursing. Find Virginia...and call them and ask for the information on foriegn educated nurses. If Virginia is not a state you want to work and reside, then pick another state, but you can still test at a VUE test site in Virginia....for any other state! I will be back in the USA next week. It is so nice to be seeing all my friends here in Manila. Good luck to you!

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I usually recommend that nurses from India take the CGFNS exam. Because, the nurse would experience difficulty in both the expense and the legal requirements to travel to the USA to take the NCEX. Some nurses from India have family in the US that might sponsor them for Kaplan review in USA on F-1 Visa. You can go to the Kaplan web site to learn about this option. Without such advantages of a US based rich relative, an Indian nurse would be not likely to come to the USA for the NCLEX® exam. Some US employers might be using recruitment agencies that are based in India. My company is not currently planning of traveling to India and will most likely interview Indian nurses in UK. I would think that a nurse who resides in India,who passes the CGFNS exam, would find a job offer! Good luck....

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Yes. You can use any test site to take the exam for any state or territory. For example, you can apply through Arizona(my favorite state) and test in New York. You will need to pay attention to the method the state requires for credentialing of the transcripts from the nursing school. Using the CGFNS CES works for most states. Because your transcripts will not be in English,you will need to provide an english translation, by a qualified translater. Only after your nurisng school education is approved as "Equivalent to US nursing educational requirements"will you be approved to test for NCLEX®! I wish you the best! PLease take a very good review course! Only 40 % of first time test takers, who are foreign nurse graduates will pass the NCLEX®. A reveiw will dramatically improve your score. The questions are geared to US nursing!

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Most employers are hospitals and prefer recent, hospital experience and sometimes 2 years of hospital work. I do have one job fair in the Philippines for correctional health. Since I cannot determine the country of your residence, I will tell you that US employers are very demading of good english skills, particularly of spoken english.

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Most employers will spend considerable money on the expenses to sponsor a immigrant nurse. These employers want nurses who are current and up to date in their medical knowledge and nursing skills. You are not. However, you can set a goal and persue this goal. Enroll in a nursing post graduate course at a well known Philippine hospital and they may offer you a job after the course? Then, in one to two years, you have the right qualifications...Good luck.

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You need to find an educational nursing program that will provide the needed course hours for your identified deficiency....best bet in is USA.

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Once an I-140 is filed in your behalf, your tourist visa will be denied.

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Each state is different. Arizona, you must have it mailed. In California, you can download, but you will need to have the fingerprint cards sent to you as these are not downloadable.

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Chris, I do not receommend the working visa. Most recognized immigration attorneys such as Carl Shusterman will tell the foreign nurse that this is not a valid visa for the nurses. Currently, the H-1B or working visa is not approved for the "staff nurse position", because the position must require a B.S. Degree. US staff nurse positions may be a BS or a AA or a Diploma. Some nurses may be at risk of having a problem with the INS with this working visa. What will the employer pay you while you are not a nurse? What if you do not pass NCLEX®? If you are not a RN, what justification is there for the H-1B? This whole scheme seems questionable to me. A nurse with your skills would have many options for US employment. However, I would like to suggest that many employers will want the NCLEX® before you arrive in US. In fact, many of our first nurses at St. Josephs in Phoenix were CGFNS passers, who arrived several months ago, without NCLEX®. They are now trying to study and work at the same time. Their feedback to me is that they would have preferred to do this prior to arriving in the USA. Our employers with Nurse Immigration USA are providing a Kaplan review in Philippines as well as expenses paid to Saipan. For a nurse in the UK, we would provide something similar, but to USA to test, most likely. I am planning a job fair in Dublin, London and Leeds or Lancaster, this June 13 to June 25. We will be presecreening in UK begining March 03. If you send me resume, I would love to consider you for this event. Use "contact us"...on this web.

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You will need the TSE for a Visa Screen certificate. I recommend a ESL with a heavy emphasis on speaking, pronunciation and geared toward the TSE. Good luck.

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I do not know what a TD is? But for most non work visa category, the foreigner can apply for an Adjustment of Status to employment based immigrant visa...green card. For the nurse, they are eligible in Calif with the letter telling them they passed NCLEX® and will not get the license until they have a social security number. You just need an employer sponsor. You can be out of status up to 180 days....but please see an immigration attorney. Good luck.

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There is a very limited category of visa that allow a foreign person to work in USA. If you are not under a family based category, then it must be employment based. There is no shortage of nursing aides or medical assistants and your best bet is with your nursing education....but that means nursing license and all the other requirements.

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If you are a nurse from Mexico who is educated in Mexico, you would need to have an evaluation of your transcripts by the CGFNS. Unfortunately, there is a question if many of the programs would be deemed equivalent to US Nursing requirements due to the difference in requirements between the two countries.

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No...they ar eligible to come on a Green Card...an employment based immigrant visa for them and eligible dependents.Current requirements for the Visa Screen which include CGFNS TOEFL TSE, etc do not apply for the H-1B. But most staff nurse jobs in the US do not qualify to be consider H-1B eligible.

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Please rephrase your question. I do not know what you are asking.

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I send the US graduates and the foreign graduates to a Kaplan review. It is usually effective. You will get a initial assessment exam to identify your weakness and you will end with a "Readiness Test." If you score below a certain level, then you must go back a review that area until you get it right. Do not give up....but self study has not proven effective for you and you must get outside help.

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You will need to get your TOEFL test and pass and then you will be issued the CGFNS certificate. If you are living outside of USA, then you will need to travel to some job fairs that would have US employers present. You could also look for an agency in your country. Most US employers will be wanting to interview the nurse candidates, hence you will need a job fair or an agency to meet these employers. If you are in USA, then you have full access to many employers.

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You can read about this at Carl Shustermans web site. The INS program is for a few hospitals and is only for a few hundred nurses. The program is stuck....not moving, and no nurses have been approved, that I am aware.

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The CNA does not qualify for the employment based immigrant visa.

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To be eligible for the employment based immigrant visa as a foreign educated nurse, you will need either CGFNS or NCLEX®.

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I do not work with these particular countries. Both Chineese and Korean generally will have challenges in passing the english testing requirements of the green card for nurses. A agency that intends to work there would need to have a intense english review and spoken english and dialect training.

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WE work only with nurses who are eligible to become licensed in the US as a Registered Nurse. The aides would not be eligible for either the H-1B or the Employment Based Immigrant Visa.

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You must meet the requirements for foreign nurses in the state you reside. You can obtain these requirements from the state board of nursing and it is usually on the web site of that state. Some states require the CGFNS of the foreign nurse and others do not. This means in some states you can directly apply to take the NCLEX® exam and in other states, you must first take the CGFNS exam.

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your H-1B can be transferred to another employer. You need to consult an immigration attorney to determine how long or if you must first work for the original employer. Aslo, if you have a contract with the employer who sponsored the H-1B and you do not abide by your contractual obligations, are you at risk for immigration fraud?

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If you are working with a working permit, then you do not need a sponsor? Perhaps I do not fully understand your current status? What type of visa are you on and what is your goal?

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Nothing is deducted. The employers who use my agency to go to the Philippines and direct hire nurses, pay these in behaf of their nurse hires. The nurses sign a three year contract in recognition of the fees paid in their behalf and their sponsorship. If the nurse works the entire contract, then the fees are paid, by virtue of their working. If the nurse leaves before the three years is expired, the nurse pays back to the employer a prorated amount.

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Highest pay will be in the largest cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles. School nursing requirements will vary by state. In Calif, it will require a post graduation certificate or credential, I believe. Nursing vary broad and varied , and you can go to the web site of the American Nurses Association to learn more. It is hyperlinked in this web site.

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IT will depend upon his experience and clinical skills. Blind in one eye is only a problem if he has signficant visual impairment that prevents him from perfroming a critical part of his nursing responsibilities. In US, there is the American with Disabilities law, which has some requirements of US employers. But, if he cannot see instruments for example in the Operating Room, perhaps he could change to be a psychiatric nurse?

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Start with the CGFNS. You must insure that your nursing education will be rated as equivalent to US requirements...or know that you are deficient and then plan on how to get these courses completed. An employer will want the assurance that you as a foreign educated nurse can meet the requirements before they spend the money on sponsorship. The Credential Evaluation Service would be my recommendation. You will need to have your transcripts sent to them by your college in Russia and you will need to provide an certified English translation.

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I would recommend the hospital web site to learn more about UCSF Medical Center. Then the many city guides to San Francisco will be interesting. Needless to say, it is one of the most known cities of the world. Very international and very cosmopolitan.

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No. We are considering scholarships for Philippine nursing schools. The nurse scholar would need to have excellent grades in previous schooling. Contact Bayani office in Manila.

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No.

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NO. You will need to meet the CGFNS requirements.

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I do not understand your request. Sorry, Please restate in detail.

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It is approx 12 months of INS processing from the time the I-140 is filed. Our agency tries to file the I-140 within 30 days of hire...when the nurse is a CGFNS passer. Since their are fewer and fewer nurse candidates with this, we are now using the NCLEX®. After the nurse hire studies for NCLEX® and passes this exam, we can file the I-140. If you are a hire with our agency, you will attend a orientation class and as part of the program we will give the nure hire a chart of the green card process and timelines. It is a complicated process and too long for this column. All of our nurse hires can go to their web based profile and look up their estimated date of arrival and view all of the paperwork being done in their behalf by our attorneys as well as our agency. They will know their status at any time, by going on the web with their password.

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INS will accept the letter stating you have passed NCLEX® in Calif and with this and an employer sponsor,the I-140 and Adjustment of Status can be filed. I cannot advise you on employement without reviewing a full resume on you. Your chances of employment depend upon your clinical skills and work history. It is very difficult for a foreign nurse who is a new graduate to obtain an employer sponsor. If a foreign nurse has recent relevant critical care experience, they are more attractive to the hospital employer.

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I do not know what country you are from and you received your nursing education. Not all nurses from all countries will be able to meet the academic review. You must first apply and go through all the steps with the CGFNS. Then you must find a US employer willing to be your sponsor. Many employers use agencies or travel to job fairs abroad...it will take several years to complete all the required INS test and processes.

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Absolutely! You are qualified. I will need to know your city of preference and get an email of your resume.

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You would apply to one of the states boards of nursing. You can take the NCLEX® at one of the border states, which would be more convenient for you to travel. If your education and country of origination is not Canada, you might be required to take TOEFL. You will not be eligible for NAFTA visa to USA as a landed immigrant or other status.

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Family based green cards can take up to 8 or 10 years. Employment based about 12 months. That is why the interst in the nursing jobs...it is the quickest way to a green card that I know of, besides being a dependent n under 21 years of age of another green card holder.

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You should apply as a nursing aide or PCT. Then use the generous monetary support programs that most US employers provide to their employees who wish to return and get a nursing degree or other shortage category training. Possibly radiology technician or something like that is another alternative to nursing.

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All the requirement of the Visa Screen. That includes TOEFL and TSE.

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That may be tough. You probably cannot do this in 6 months.

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The employment based immigrant visa does not provide for students of the professional category. You must be a graduate and a licensee...

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For the INS and for some of boards of nursing, you will need to be a graduate of a nurisng educational program which is equivalent to the US requirements. A course by course comparision of the school transcripts will be done by the CGFNS and/or the board of nursing. The CGFNS will need to verify your nursing license from your home country? How will a physician meet those requirements unless they return to nursing school? Nursing studies will take about 2 to 3 years, if you can gain entry easily.

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You do not tell me what country you completed your nursing education nor what country you are currently living and working....that makes it difficult to give you a total answer to your question. Our US employers will set our screening critera for each job fair, So far, a nurse applicant with only 8 months and would not be selected for an interview. There are many other highly qualified applicants that have much more experience and more recent. Therefore, I would recommend waiting to sign with an agency or attending job fairs until you have more recent and solid work experience. Good luck and keep your long term goals in mind....you just need some more time.

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It is not easy to get a tourist visa and usually requires financial proofs. In addition, you would need to be able to support yourself while in USA and this usually means a relative who lives in USA. Then you would need to pass the NCLEX® as well as find a US employer sponsor. OR..take CGFNS in India. Also, many US state boards of nurisng will require the CGFNS as well as the TOEFL in order to apply for NCLECX.

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All states require the NCLEX® and many states require the CGFNS as well as english exams.

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For physician requirements, please go Carl Shustermans web site. I have a narrow area of knowledge and it relates exclusively to nurses.

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It is not clear if you are here in USA processing an adjustment of status or you are in your country processing with the US Embassy. If you are abroad, then the time frame from I-140 approval to the Embassy Interview and issuance of the departure papers could be 6 to 9 months longer. If you are adjustment of status here in USA and if.....the EAD and Adjustment of Status was filed concurrently with your I-140, you will have your work permit (EAD) within 90 days. Congratulations on your progress.

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It is always an advantage to study nursing in the USA if one plans on working as a nurse in the USA. Your clinical rotations are in US hospitals and your training would be totally directed toward the US healthcare system.

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I wish! This is one of the biggest frustrations is the long waiting times and slow responses from the agencies. Stick in there!

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You must be a graduate of an approved, equivalent nursing program with a degree and for immigration, you must be licensed in your country as a nurse.

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I do not know the answer. However, the CGFNS should provide you with a list of your deficiencies if your courses are missing some requirements. Every state has a list of the required hours and subjects for nursing schools in their states, but I do not know what the CGFNS is considering equivalent.

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You need to have more experience than an office nurse. You should consider going back to hospital nursing, otherwise you do not have much chance of being selected for sponsorship by US employers who are seeking nurses in the Philippines.

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California and Arizona are examples on states that do not have a requirement of foreign educated nurses to demonstrate passing score of 400 or better on the CGFNS.

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your nursing skills and expertise are irrelevant to the tourist visa process...if you have stated intent to persue employment - you will be denied the tourist visa. You can proceed to the INS web site to learn about the requirements of the tourist visa. I would suggest that you insure your nursing school will pass the required CGFNS course by course comparison to US nursing course equivalency by submitting to the CGFNS CES. You will also need to have passed TOEFL. Good luck.

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Have her read this web site, also CGFNS and Carl Shusterman. It is not simple and she must study the requirements.

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If you have both a valid work permit and have the license in the state you are working. Without those, you must proceed to qualify to obtain these. Hence, the credentialing process and the immigration process. You can read about these on this web site.

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LVN education is usually in a community college. That college will usually have general education requirements as well as sciences and clinical nursing courses. It is very likely that most institutions would have a English requirement. Sorry!

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Yes. You can download the CGFNS CES application from the web site. I think this is a very good idea when a nurse wants to know for sure if their education and licensure will meet US requirements.

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Unknown. But, you can purchase them on-line on Amazon...but you would need a credit card. In the Philippines, they are sold in many book stores. Could you ask your local book store to order the book? Find the one you want on-line at Amazon, then copy that page and ask your local book store to order it for you? Good luck.

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Yes Each country and state has their own requirements. There are agreement in Europe for cross border licensing of professionals, but not here in North America. Even with NAFTA, the nurses must pass the required tests.

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You will need a work permit in order to apply for work. In order to apply for the work permit, you will need to pass NCLEX® or CGFNS and have a qualified US employer sponsor. I am assuming that you are here on a non work visa. Good luck.

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No.

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You do not qualify as a medical student.

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You should not come until you have passed the CGFNS exam and credentialing as well as TOEFL In addition, you will not have favorable consideration without experience in your home country.

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Students on a F-1 Visa ( Student), I believe....are limited in working for the institution of study, such as the school or university. I believe that they may work for the school only 20 hours per week. Perhaps as a research assistant or whatever. I think that after graduation, there might be a period of practical training allowed. However, if they have worked full time in the summer, that time period of post graduation practical training might be reduced. I always refer to qualified immigration attorneys and some of web sites. I have hyperlinked a couple on this web. However, it is possible to "Adjust the Status" of a non-immigrant visa, such as this, to an employment based visa, such as a green card. In the case of a foreign educated nurse who meets the I-140 requirements. Part of those requirements would be CGFNS certificate or NCLEX® in the state of the US employer sponsor.

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When you receive the AZ packet. It will have both the NCLEX® application and the AZ RN licensure by examiniation packet including fingerprint cards. The fees for the AZ RN license are $281.00 with fingerprints and temporary license. The fees for NCLEX® are $200.00. In addition, the foreign educated nurse must have the nursing school transcripts "certified" by a acceptable agency to be equivalent to a US Nursing education and the licensure of the nurse verified. One agency that is acceptable is the CGFNS Credential Evaluation Service. This fee is $270.00. Arizona will notify NCLEX® when all this paper work is received and reviewed by AZ staff, if the nurse is approved to take the NCLEX®> If so, then NCLEX® mails the ATT. The nurse has 90 days in which to schedule the NCCLEX at one of the worldwide test sites.

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Yes. It is true. All Arizona licensed RNs who have a valid, current address, would have received the Board Newsletter the first few weeks of August. The story is on the front page. The web must not be updated. They have updated the applications that are mailed or picked up at their offices. There were several changes specific to foreign educated nurses.

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It might be preferrable for you to work for some time in your home country. The green card process takes about 12 month or up to 18 months. You could be working and gaining valuable experienced. An experienced nurse is always more attractive to the US employers. That is because of the assumption that your transition will be faster with more work experience.

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You, your spouse and age eligible children, will be eligible for the green card, by virtue of your employment based green card. All public education is free in America. Many employers provide one or more months of housing for their newly arriving foreign nurses. This will ease the stress and transition, while the nurse earns US dollars and saves for the deposit required by most apartments. The nurse is more productive during the first months of employment without the stress of immediatly looking for a place to live. In addition, many foreign nurse hires arrive from countries where the dollar/national currency ratio is weak. Their national currency will not buy as much. They need to earn US dollars to afford US prices. Also, your husbands ability to locate work, will depend upon his English skills and education.

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If the CA BRN receives your Philippine license verification from the PRC AND your transcripts from your college of nursing, immediately after receiving your paid application, that will speed up the process. Another problem may arise if the National Crime Data base does not process the fingerprints quickly. The web page for the CA BRN does indicate that it may take up to 6 months, as an average. You will know that the application was approved when you receive your ATT (Authorization to test) with NCLEX®. IFyou have an address in the Philippines, that also really slows down the nurse applicant receiving the ATT...sometimes up to 5 weeks. It is better to use a US address. We use our hospital or agency address and then notify our nurse by email or phone call.

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If you are writing from the Philippines and if you are asking about NCLEX®....there are many study centers that offer a NCLEX® review. We are using Kaplan PI. They have study centers in Cebu, Makati, Ermita and Quezon City.

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We tried that and No. But...please feel free to call the BRN in California and ask that question, in the event their position has changed. Good luck!

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I will email you next week. I need to find my notes and then I can send it to you.

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If you have a US social security number, then you will be able to obtain a full RN license in California, after you are successful in the application process. If you do not have a US social security number, you must take a different route. Neither ARizona or New Mexico will require you to have a social security number of the CGFNS to apply for NCLEX®. But you cannot work in California with an ARizona license or New Mexico license. But, rather than take the CGFNS exam, I think you are best apply directly to California Board of Nursing. They have a web site and you can read about their rules. They are located in Sacramento and you can request the application for licensure by examiniation, for foreign educated nurses be sent to you. California will also require your nursing school transcripts, in English and in your native language. etc. But you can read all those instructions. If you are successful, you can obtain a employer sponsor , without much difficulty and using the adjustment of status, obtain a green card for you and your spouse and eligible dependents. During the process of obtaining your green card, you will need to TOEFL/TSE or you can take MELAB. Much more economical and only available in USA Or Canada. But, you will be working as a RN, while you are obtaining the Green Card. With the I-140 petition, and the Adjustment of States the attorney files for theEAD. The applicant should have the EAD within 90 days of the filing. The green card will take much longer. With a RN , you will then look for a US employer in San Jose area who will be your sponsor. I think this will not be difficult. Good luck.

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New Mexico and Arizona are two states who do not require the CGFNS exam in order to qualify to take the NCLEX® or a social security number to issue the license. You can review the requirements for each state ( usually) at that states web pages. the NCSBN ( National Council State Boards of Nursing Web page,lists all the Boards of Nurisng in US, Guam, Saipan, Puerto Rico, etc. Although California does not require the CGFNS exam, it will not issue a license without the US Social Security number, only a passing letter. Currently, the INS will not accept this letter. There are other states who also require the social security number. Most foreign nurses first identify the state they wish to live. Then check out that state. If that state is restrictive, then research the second choice of where you wish to live. Since each nurse for the employment based visa must have a US employer sponsor, that is also a key factor. Nurses can relocate to their first choice, after obtaining the green card and working the agreed upon time for the first employer-sponsor.

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If you are an agency who wishes to find employment and then receive an agency fee, I would recommend you offer these candidates directly to hospitals and other employers.

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Some of the states publish a phone number which ha a modest toll. The nurse candidate can call this number after 72 hours and get a recording to announce their test results. However, if your state that you tested through does not have this, then the mail is your option. If the mail is being mailed to another country, that will pose a delay. In the Philippines, the US mail has often required about 6 weeks. Is there a fax number or email to the board of nursing offices? You could ask them to investigate the delay?

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The Packet 3 notice, follows the approval of the I-140. Has your I-140 been approved? Is your attorney providng you or your agency copies of the I-140 receipt and then the I-140 approval?

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It is always mailed. On the web site, you can see a telephone service-automated. Sometimes, a delay is related to PRC and transcripts. By checking the automated line, you might discover the reason for your delay.

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NCLEX® is given 5 to 6 days per week, except for holidays...at most test sites. When the nurse receives the ATT, the nurse calls the preferred test site to schedule the exam. The nurse must take the exam within the 90 days identified on the ATT.

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What country did you receive your nursing education? What country are you in now? This will help me to identify a course of action for the two nurses.

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Last question , same response. What state did you apply through? NCLEX® fee is $200 US? In addition, the nurse applicant will need to pay fees to the state. In Arizona, that is another $281.00 which includes temporary license, fingerprints. Also, do you have the CGFNS? Has this agency committed you to an employer? If you are looking for an employer sponsor in California and you do not have the CGFNS exam passer/TOEFL to obtain the CGFNS certificate, you could face problems. Because CA BRN will not issue the license without the social security number.

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There are two possible approaches. If she can only work toward this goal from Romania, then her only option is the CGFNS. Their web site is referenced her in "NurseLinks." If she has financial support to come to US, to AZ on a tourist visa or a student visa, she might accelerate the normal processing times...by taking NCLEX® here in Arizona.

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A foreign educated nurse must have a full and unrestricted license in their country of the nursing education. I have several articles regarding the process and exams needed for US in the web site.

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Two types of healthcare workers in the US are certified nursing assistant and licensed pratical nurses or licensed vocational nurses. Neither of these employment categories is eligible for the nurse immigration process. For CGFNS , the foreign educated nurse must have an equivalent nursing education to US based education. A course by course transcripts review is conducted.

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If you have an employer/sponsor AND....if you pass NCLEX® and get a full license in the state of the employer/sponsor, an I-140 petition can be filed. If you remain abroad, then you will be go through the immigration process, including the TOEFL, TSE and Visa Screen. It will take about one year after the I-140 filing.

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You must have an employer sponsor. Then, in order to file the I-140 , you will need either the CGFNS or the NCLEX®. If you are in the US, on a nonwork visa such as the tourist visa, then an adjustment of status and EAD can be filed. You will have your work permit within 90 days or less. You will be working while completing the remaining steps for the green card.

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No. I do not have a list of these centers. Could you ask nurse friends who have reported to you high scores on the CGFNS exam, recommend a center? I know of one in Baguio and they have an office in Manila. I also know of Kaplan. The one in Baguio is called LeBagnoy, but that is most likely spelled wrong. Check the advertisements in the Manila papers. Good luck.

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I do not know what a INS control number is? What stage of the immigration process is she currently placed? Has she received the I-140 approval? I think this might be a question that requires the expertise of an attorney. Please send me more information and I will investigate.

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One you have your CGFNS and your TOEFL, you will be qualified. However, you might also consider some type of teaching exchange with a US university? The real job market in the US is for hospital experienced staff nurses. ONce you do pass the CGFNS and the TOEFL, let me know and I will seek out the assistance of some professors.

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Read my article here in this web site. Basically, you apply to the CA BRN. They will have you send your transcripts from your Philippine Nursing school to them and a verification of your Philippine license to them. Then, after the review of these documents and with your fees paid, you will be approved to sit for the NCLEX®. I recommend a good review such as the review provided by Kaplan for NCLEX®. Less than 40% of first time NCLEX® test takers who are foreign educated nurses.....pass. With the proper review, your potential for passing NCLEX® raises dramatically.

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If you are asking me how to obtain a copy of your own CGFNS certificate, you must go through the CGFNS. It is not easy to get a duplicate. Please use their email on the CGFNS web site and explain what has happened. You must have your original CGFNS ID number. The CGFNS is linked on NURSELINKS.

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For the employment based immigrant visa, the sponsor must be an employer.

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If you are in a US school persuing the BSN, then you are in a school which is accredited and your degree will be accepted anywhere in US. Of course, you must pass the NCLEX®.

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Kentucky is a VERY difficult state for foreign educated nurses to obtain a license. AS of Sept 2002, the foreign educated nurse must prove to be a legal temporary or permanent resident, pass CGFNS, TOEFL and TSE! However, other states such as my state of Arizona, the foreign educated nurse must have the nursing school transcripts evaluated and verification of good standing of the licensure in their home country. The foreign educated nurse who was educated in english does ot need any english test to apply. There is no CGFNS exam requirement for application to take NCLEX®. California is similar, but does require the social security number in order to issue a license. Arizona requires no social security number. Each state is different and the nurse can go the the web site for the NCSBN and they have a list of each state and the web site for that state.

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NCLEX® does not publish results. They are mailed to the applicant. The results are through the state that you applied for licensure. For example, if you applied through California, then the Callifornia Board of Nursing will send you a letter. The letter will be mailed to the ADDRESS that was written on the application. UPDATE: New Vue web site has internet test results. See article and hyperlink in my web site.

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You are correct about California. Is this the state that you applied to take NCLEX®? Did you get a letter from the Calif BRN? You can apply through ARizona and you will get a license, but that is more money! It is a shame that so many nurses are caught in this impossible situation with California. I only hope that a solution evolves prior to your expiration of one year.

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{:ease contact a qualified immigration attorney ASAP. If you have an employer sponsor, and you are adjusting from a tourist visa to a employment based immigrant visa, you can be out of status up to 180 days. However, you are at risk for being banned from return to USA for up to 10 years. Please do not delay in taking quick action. Good luck!

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To work as a RN, each nurse must be licensed as such in the state of their employment. I have a license in Calif and in Arizona. If I were to work in Texas, I would need to apply for a license in the state of Texas. I only need to pass NCLEX® once, but each state may have other requirements for their nurse applicants.

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If the job requires a B.S. Degree, then it may qualify for a H-1B. Most staff nurse positions can be either a diploma, AA or BS. So, a staff nurse position would not qualify for a H-1B. It is the employer who would apply for the H-1B, after the labor certification process.

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No. You will need the Visa Screen for the final aspect of your green card process.

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Yes. the nurse immigrant needs the Visa Screen for the Packet 4.

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Please study the web site. First step is the review of your nursing school transcripts by the CGFNS CES to determine US equivalency of educational programs. You will also obtain this as part of the CGFNS exam application.

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Yes. MELAB is recognized for the ICHP or Visa Screen. MELAB is only available in US and Canada.

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A medical technician is not eligible for this program. You would need to be a graduate of a nursing program that is deemed equivalent to a US educational program.

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I consulted an immigration attorney for this answer. However, this situation is one of you needing legal advise. This advice column cannot substitute for a good attorney. If no permanent residency was filed in your behalf by 4/20/01 by a family member or an employer, you do not have an option to persue. You are out of status and subject to deportation as well as a bar to returning to the USA for up to 10 years. I would suggest you seek out the expertise of a qualified immigration attorney. I wish you the best. When filing for an adjustment of status from a non work visa to a employment based immigrant visa, the applicant can be out of status no more than 180 days or 6 months maximum. You are out of status for two years.

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Most of the employers that use my agency prefer to conduct the hiring interview in person. I plan on a job fair in Dublin, London and Leeds in June 03. I will have announcements on this web site. If they submit a resume several months in advance of the job fair, they could be selected for a reserved time for an interview. It is good that they have passed these exams and have working experience. If their spoken english is excellent , I would assume that the employer would find them very attractive as a hire. This employer would then agree to serve as a sponsor and pay all fees in order to immigrate the nurse to USA. In recognition of the expense to the employer, a three year agreement to work at that hospital is signed. The nurse and their eligible family members receive a green card.

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It can take about one year for a nurse who has passed the CGFNS or NCLEX® as well as the TOEFL. It can take the nurse from 18 to 24 months, if they must take these exams. Each nurse must not only have these exams, but a US employer/sponsor in order to file the I-140 petition, which begins the immigration process. Any nurse who completes the CGFNS or NCLEX® and TOEFL, will be ahead of the game. After hire by a US employer/sponsor, the immigration will take one year. For nurses hired by employers that contract with my company, all test review prepartion, testing, INS fee, my agency fees and legal fees are paid by the employer. Also, the airfare to the USA and some type of temporary housing. My company assists and supports the foreign nurses hired by our contracted employers. The nurse must sign an agreement to work 3 years full time for the employer in recognition of the expenses paid in behalf of the nurse.

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You must have graduated from an approved nursing program deemed equivlent to US educational requirements. You must have a valid and unrestricted license in your country. That means, you must first graduate and become licensed prior to begining this process. In addition, US employers perfer a nurse with experience. Therefore, I suggest that you seek employment after graduation and remain employed during the 12 to 18 months to process your immigration paper work.

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Those many initials are not familiar to me. I suspect they are related to medical exams? If you wish to change to nursing, you must graduate from a nursing program deemed equivalent to US educational standards.

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I do not know all the states. In addition, these laws, regulation and policies can and do change often. I go to the web site of the state, and check the requirements for foreign educated nurses. I know my state of Arizona, California, New Mexico are not requiring the CGFNS exam in order to apply for licensure. Go to the NCSBN web site, that is the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. It is hyperlinked here in the web site. Go the state that you are interested and read. There may be a contact button and you can order the application and instructions for foreign educated nurses. Be careful of published tables of which states have which requirements. I have found some to have errors as they have not been kept current with the changes in a state law.

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Yes, As far as I know. California may request your school transcripts and license verification and another set of fingerprints.

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Where are you located now? What part of California to you prefer to work? I might be able to assist you?

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What state issued your license? You can not obtain an endoresement or any type of license from California without a social security card. You can in other states, such as Arizona and New Mexico.

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Your attorney may not be aware that as of July 24th, the INS announced that certain cases, the I-140 petition is filed concurrently with the EAD, Adjustment of status and advance parole. The EAD will take 90 days or less for issue. It is no longer necessary to wait for the I-140 approval. This is for the case of the employment based immigrant visa. Your attorney should check out several web sites to get confirmation of this....including the INS, the web site of Carl Shusterman and of G. Siskind called Visalaw. Get your EAD filed ASAP!

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Please go to the web site for the state of Georgia to review the requirments for application for licensure for foreign educated nurses. You are actually eligible to have an employer sponsor file the I-140 petition in your behalf with the CGFNS exam and the TOEFL exam. What is your clinical background in nursing?

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As of August 1, there is a new company who has the contract to administer NCLEX® ttesting at all the test sites worldwide. I have an article and a hyperlink in this web. Although, the Saipan test site has a limited capacity, you should be able to schedule within the 90 day time frame. If you have problems, I would receommend a complaint the the NCSBN. Saipan is much preferred by the Philippine nurses as it does NOT require them to obtain a US Tourist Visa.

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When you completed the application for the CGFNS exam, you had two forms included in the packet. One you took to your school of nursing and they needed to complete the form and send it to the CGFNS. Another, you needed to take to your license board, so that they could verify your status and they needed to send that form to the CGFNS. ONce the CGFNS received your transcripts, they reviewed your courses and hours of intruction to determine if your schooling was equivalent to US education. Since you were approved to take the CGFNS exam, you have been credentialed. When the CGFNS has both of your english exams, and a CGFNS exam score of 400 or better, and the nurse completes the Visa Screen application and pays the fees, then....the Visa Screen is issued. Nurses who do not take the CGFNS exam, will need to complete the credentialting with the CGFNS CES. It costs $270.00. Although the nurses do not take the exam, they must send their transcripts and license verification as do the nurses who take the exam.

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I would wait a few months....most attorneys recommend that. You must have an employment offer from a US employer who will be the sponsor. Of course, you must be here in the USA on a non work visa status such as the Tourist Visa, the Student Visa or the spouse of the H-1B. You seemed very prepared!

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Adjustment of status is available for those here in the states on a nonwork visa, who can qualify for an employment based visa. While they are here in the US, if they find a situation which the US employer will sponsor them and the foreign educated person qualifies, they can adjust their status and be working in as little as 90 days. Hospitals do sponsor nurses under these circumstances and the nurse ultimately receives the green card, but is working during the processing. They can only leave the US, if they also apply and receive the "Advance Parole" and otherwise must wait for the green card.

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Now tht you have passed the New York state license requirements and have a full and unrestricted RN license in that state, you are elgible to have your H-4 "Adjusted" to the employment based immigrant visa, ie Green Card. You will need a NY employer to hire you and agree to be a sponsor. Then the I-140 petition can be filed concurrently with the Adjustment of Status, EAD and Advance Parole if needed. You will receive the EAD ( work permit) within about 90 days and begin working as a NY RN at a very good salary. Your green card will take about one year. These can also be filed for your spouse as he is eligible for the green card also, as a result of being your husband.

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Only if the nurse has not previously been approved for the CGFNS exam in the past. For example, nurses who obtain a license in Califonia and use such for the I-140 petition, would then need to pay for the CES, because CGFNS will not issue the Visa Screen with the Califoria credentialing.

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Carmen, this is a difficult question. Not only must you screen and obtain qualified nurses, but you must have the confidence of the US employer to obtain the contracts or jobs. No easy cookbook solutions.

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Yes..and NO. You will have the OPPORTUNITY..but you will not be eligible to depart for the USA, until you meet all the INS requirements.

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You can file immediately. However, if you do not have a social security number, California may not verify your status to the other state.

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You must address the question to the CGFNS. I have so special access to this organization.

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I would think that web based classes would be open to anyone who is able to register and pay fees. It may abe a challenge to pay the fees, unless you have a credit card. Most web sites, will have the registration by credit card.

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Please read my article on this web site...NCLEX®, A Guide to Foreign Educated Nurses.

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The only advantage to being an RN, is the advantage of the availability of the employment based immigrant visa that is available to qualified foreign educated nurses. Family based visas can take about 15 years. There is a lottery for a few visas every year. The H-1B is not currently valid for staff nurse positions. The H-1B requires that the job have a minimum of B.S. Degree. Staff nurse positions will take nurses who have the Diploma, the AA as well as the B.S. Nurses who have passed the CGFNS and have an employer sponsor will receive the green card in about 12 months, barring any problems with the english tests.

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I do not know about faster. I do know that the I-140 petition can be filed with either the CGFNS certificate or RN in the state of the US employer/sponsor. Also, US employers prefer nurses who are a known passer of NCLEX®. Saipan as a test center is often preferred by the nurses from the Philippines as it does not require a tourist visa to travel to Saipan and it does for Guam.

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The student visa or F-1, is used by some foreign persons to complete the college courses for the R.N. in USA. When that person graduates and is successful on the NCLEX®, the F-1 will provide for one year practical training post graduation. This provides the ability for one year work permit, if the student has not diminished that time, in summer work. During the time of one year practical training, the nurse may be adjusted into a employment based immigrant visa, or green card.

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If you have passed NCLEX® in California, you can apply to ARizona for licensure by examination. You will not need to retake the NCLEX®, but show your letter from California. ARizona will also accept the transcript and licensure review that was done to determine that your education was equivalent to US nursing education. You will not receive reciprocity from California with your Arizona license, without the social security number. So, you must complete your adjustment of status with an Arizona employer , obtain the EAD, work permit, then the green card, and work for the required time. Then, you will have your social security number and may consider relocating to California and getting your California RN license. But...dont be surprised if you love it here in Arizona. I was born and raised and educated in California...but now I love Arizona!

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The fingerprint card has instructions that tell you how to get this done. Traditionally, you can go to the police department. CA has the scanning available at certain places. I assume if you are in the Philippines, you can go to the NBI? But....you will not receive the license without the social security number. If you pass NCLEX®, then get a letter, you might find an employer as a sponsor. Some attorneys are filing the I-140 and the EAD, Adj of Status, without the full license. The EAD, comes in 90 days or less, then the nurse is eligible to get a social security number. Then the nurse will get the full license. Hopefully, there will not be an RFE, from the INS. If there is a RFE, then the nurse may have the RN license by that time. It is very risky, but this is how some of the immigration attorneys are handling the problem for the social security number problem in California.

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You are a religous worker? If your sponsor brought you in as a religous worker, then why cant you begin working for them immediately? If they want you to adjust immediatly, then it sounds as if they intended to only get you here in US under this Visa category and then adjust you? Are you a nurse? What type of employer is your sponsor? Perhaps you are a both a nurse and a religous worker? All nurses that my company brings to US start work and earning money within days of arrival. This is an unusual situation. If you email me the details outside of the NurseBoard, I can give you advise.

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You must request that the AZ Bd of Nursing send you an applictation for licensure by endoresement. You must complete the application, and send fees. It may take about 3 months or more. Your wife would apply for licensure by examination. When her ATT comes, she would most likely select Saipan as the test site. Are you coming to my job fair in Manila on Sat 10/26? See front page for details.

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Please read article I wrote and you will find it on this web site....NCLEX® - A Guide to foreign educated nurses. your daughter will need to be licensed and she will need to be legal to work.

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TOEFL amd TSE are part of the requirements for the US employment based immigrant visa for nurses. I am not aware of any english tests that are required for the temporary work permit for UK.

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Yes. An individual on a nonwork visa can "Adjust" and you will need either CGFNS or NCLEX® an a employer sponsor.