Preparing for Your Big Move

The Financial Lowdown for Canadian Nurses Transitioning to the USA

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and head south to the USA for your nursing career? Fantastic! Many hospitals offer relocation assistance  and license reimbursement to take the sting out of moving. But before you start packing your bags, it’s crucial to get a handle on the costs involved. Moving countries isn’t just about booking a flight; there are several fees and expenses that can add up quickly. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to save up for.

1.  NCLEX-RN Examination

   • Exam Fee: $360 CAD
   • Study Materials: Budget around $200 CAD for quality study guides, online courses, or practice exams.

   Total: $560 CAD

2. English Language Testing (If You’re from Quebec)

   • IELTS Academic: Aiming for a general score of 6.5 and oral expression of 7.0. Costs around $330 CAD.
   • TOEFL iBT: Goal is a general score of 83, with 26 in oral expression. Typically around $300 CAD.
   • PTE Academic: Another option, costing about $340 CAD.

   Total: ~$330 to $340 CAD (depending on the test)

3. VisaScreen

   • CGFNS VisaScreen Certificate: $945 CAD (converted from $740 USD).
   • Josef Silny & Associates Visa4Nurses Certificate: $675 CAD (converted from $500 USD).

   Total: $675 to $945 CAD

4. State Nursing License

   Each state has its own licensure fees, but on average, you’re looking at:

   • Lowest State Licensing Costs:
     • Base State Licensing Fee: CAD $100
     • Verification of Provincial Licenses: CAD $15
     • Fingerprints: CAD $150
     • Total (Low Range): CAD $265
   • Highest State Licensing Costs:
     • Base State Licensing Fee: CAD $750 (California)
     • Verification of Provincial Licenses: CAD $60
     • CES Report: CAD $655
     • Fingerprints: CAD $150
     • Nursys Verification: CAD $40
     • Total (High Range): CAD $1,655

   Total: $265 to $1,615 CAD

5. Moving Expenses

   • Flight: A one-way ticket to the USA can range between $500 and $800 CAD, depending on your location and the time of booking.
   • Importing a Car: If you’re bringing your vehicle, budget around $1,200 to $2,500 CAD for import duties, modifications, and inspections.
   • Shipping Personal Items: Estimate about $1,000 to $3,000 CAD, depending on the amount of stuff you’re bringing.

   Total: $2,700 to $6,300 CAD

6. Setting Up a New Apartment or Temporary Accommodation
   

   When transitioning to a new city in the USA, some nurses may choose temporary accommodations like an Airbnb or an extended-stay hotel while they settle in and find a permanent place. Here’s a breakdown:

   • First Month’s Rent + Deposit:
     • Cost: CAD $1,500 – $2,500 (depends on the city and whether you need a security deposit)
     • Furniture and Essentials: CAD $2,000 – $4,000
   • Airbnb Option:
     • Cost: CAD $100 – $200 per night for a modest apartment or room in most cities.
     • Monthly Total: CAD $3,000 – $6,000 (for 30 days, depending on location and amenities)
   • Extended-Stay Hotel Option:
     • Cost: CAD $80 – $150 per night, offering basic accommodations with some amenities like kitchenettes.
     • Monthly Total: CAD $2,400 – $4,500 (for 30 days, depending on location and services)

   Total: $2,400 to $6,500 CAD

Grand Total:

When you add everything up, you’re looking at a total of $6,040 to $16,300 CAD.

Pro Tip:

Many employers offer relocation assistance, but it might not cover all of these expenses. Make sure you confirm what’s included in your package, and save up accordingly to cover any gaps. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re sipping that first cup of Starbucks in your new American kitchen!

Planning ahead is key, and with this guide, you’re one step closer to making your American dream a reality—without the financial nightmares. With the higher pay offered at most American positions as well as the currency conversion rate being very beneficial to those working in the USA, it is still very much worth the trip. Safe travels, future RN extraordinaire!