Elevate Your Career: RPNs’ Guide to U.S. Nursing with the TN Visa

How-to Guide on How to Get to the USA as an RPN

If you’re an RPN dreaming of working in the USA, there’s a bit of a catch due to the NAFTA agreement. Unfortunately, TN visas, which facilitate easier cross-border employment, are only available for certain healthcare professionals – and RPNs aren’t on that list. But don’t hang up your scrubs just yet! There’s still a path forward. You’ll need to complete a bridging program to become an RN, and then pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be eligible to apply for a TN visa and begin your American nursing adventure.

The RPN to RN Leap – Bridging is Key

So, you’re an RPN with big dreams? Your first step is to upgrade to RN status through a recognized bridging program. This program will provide the additional academic and clinical education required to meet RN-level standards in the U.S.

After you’ve completed the bridging program, you’ll be eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam, the standardized test for Registered Nurses in the USA. Think of it as your golden ticket into the world of American nursing. Just a heads-up: this is a nurse-driven process, and you’ll need to take the reins on every step.

1. Citizenship Check:

   Before you embark on this adventure, make sure you’re a citizen of either Canada or Mexico. The TN Visa is an exclusive opportunity for citizens of these countries. It’s like ensuring you’ve got the right passport before a grand journey.

2. English Proficiency – Speak the Language of American Care:

   Communication is at the heart of nursing. Being proficient in English is not just a requirement; it’s the bridge that connects you with patients and colleagues. So, brush up on your language skills – you’re going to need them.

3. Check with Board of Nursing (BON)

   Each BON has it’s own criteria. You may be eligible based on your nursing education, nursing clinicals and your nursing experience.

   1. Research State Requirements: Confirm that the state will recognize your RPN background as eligible for the NCLEX-RN.
   2. Educational Equivalency: Some states may have specific requirements to verify if your RPN education aligns with RN standards.
   3. Application and Documentation: Submit the necessary paperwork, including transcripts and, in some cases, work experience letters, to support your application.

   Research State Requirements

   Confirm that the state will recognize your upgraded RN education. Bridging programs can vary, so make sure the state you’re applying to accepts your specific path.

   Educational Equivalency

   Even after completing your bridging program, some states may still require supplemental coursework to meet their RN standards.

   Application and Documentation

   You’ll need to submit documents like transcripts, credential evaluations, and maybe even letters from your former employers to support your application.

   Important Considerations

   • Credential Evaluation: Almost all states require you to have your education reviewed to ensure it aligns with their RN requirements.
   • Additional Coursework: Even with a bridging program under your belt, some states may ask you to complete further classes or clinical hours.
   • Stay Updated: BON requirements can change. Always check the current criteria on the official website of the state you’re interested in.

4. Conquer the NCLEX-RN:

   Once your bridging program is complete and your paperwork is in order, it’s time to take on the NCLEX-RN exam. This is your official test to become a U.S.-licensed RN. It’s not just a box to check – it’s your entry into a rewarding nursing career south of the border.

5. Visa Screen – The Final Checkpoint:

   Once you’ve conquered the NCLEX-RN, the next stop on your journey is the Visa Screen. This is like the last checkpoint – a process to validate your credentials and ensure you’re all set to make a difference in U.S. healthcare. You can get a Visa Screen from CGFNS or a Visa4Nurses certificate from Josef Silny. View the differences between the certificates.

6. Apply at IntelliStaff Medical

   Now that you got all your documents ready and you are officially an RN, one of our recruiters will be eager to assist you in finding an RN job in one of the states listed above. Apply now.

Ready to Work in the USA:

Congrats – you’ve made it! You’ve upgraded your education, passed the NCLEX-RN, secured your Visa Screen, and are now eligible for a TN visa. It’s time to make your American dream a reality.

IntelliStaff Medical – Your U.S. Nursing Destination:

Whether you’re an RPN who completed a bridging program or already an RN, IntelliStaff Medical is here to support your journey. If you’re a Canadian or Mexican citizen ready for U.S. opportunities, we’re your go-to guide. We’ll walk with you through licensure, immigration, and job placement – right up to your first shift in the States.