Nursing in California: Sun, Salary, & Success for Canadian & Mexican RNs

How to Work in California and Score Your Nursing License in 3 Steps

Why California? Let’s Break it Down:

Thinking about taking your nursing skills to California? Here’s a quick tour of what makes this state a top choice for Canadian and Mexican nurses:

• Competitive Salaries: California nurses enjoy some of the highest wages in the U.S. (2023 average: ~$124,000/year)—definitely above the national average.
• Stellar Labour Protections: Thanks to active nursing unions, California hospitals offer fair wages, safer working environments, and solid benefits. Basically, the state has your back!
• Diverse Job Opportunities: From world-renowned hospitals to cutting-edge research institutions, California has it all. You’ll find endless specialties and career paths to explore.
• Favourable Nurse-to-Patient Ratios: The state mandates nurse-to-patient ratios, so you’re less likely to feel like you’re juggling too much (or, let’s be honest, too many).
• Endless Learning and Growth: With top-tier universities and training programs, California is ideal if you want to level up your education and skills while you work.
• Fantastic Benefits: Many California employers go above and beyond, offering great health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and, of course, the perk of sunshine almost every day.
• Overtime Pay (Yes, Please): California pays OT by the day. After 8 hours, it’s time and a half, and double after 10. So, a 12-hour shift can really work in your favour.

How to Obtain a California License as a Foreign Nurse (in 3 Steps!)

Ready to make California happen? Here’s what you need to do:

1. Align Your Credentials

   Ensure your nursing credentials meet U.S. standards. Review the program requirements with California’s nursing board guide.

2. Get a U.S. SSN or ITIN

   To register with the California Board of Nursing, you need a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN):

   • For SSN: SS-5 Form from SSA
   • For ITIN: IRS Form W-7

3. Obtain a VisaScreen or Visa4Nurses Certificate

   You’ll need either a VisaScreen (from TruMerit™ (CGFNS)) or a Visa4Nurses (from Josef Silny & Associates). Both verify that your education, training, licensure, and English proficiency align with U.S. standards.

   • TruMerit™ (CGFNS) offers a Credential Evaluation Service (CES) Professional Report, which can be sent directly to the California Board if you choose this option.
   • JS&A’s Visa4Nurses Certificate meets immigration requirements but doesn’t have the CES option for direct forwarding to California’s Board of Nursing.

4. Connect with Your IntelliStaff Medical Recruiter

   Your recruiter can help you lock in a California direct hire assignment with pathway for a green card. Ready to enjoy sunny beaches, high pay, and that laid-back California vibe?

That’s it! You’re all set to start your new chapter in California!