So you want to work in the USA. You will need either a VisaScreen or Visa4Nurses certification to get a TN Visa so that you can cross that border and start your nursing journey.
When choosing between TruMerit™ (CGFNS) and Josef Silny & Associates for your HealthCare worker screen (VisaScreen or Visa4Nurses certification) credentialing, it’s essential to understand the key differences in cost, processing time, and acceptance by U.S. state boards of nursing. Let’s break it down!
Cost and Renewal Fees
VisasSreen CGFNS TruMerit™ (CGFNS) VisaScreen®:
- Initial application fee: $740
- Renewal fee: $475 (every five years)
- Visa4Nurses Certification
Josef Silny & Associates, Inc.Josef Silny & Associates Visa4Nurses:- Initial application fee: $600
- Renewal fee: $500
Accepted by U.S. Boards of Nursing
Not all U.S. nursing boards accept the Josef Silny Visa4Nurses.
- TruMerit™ (CGFNS) VisaScreen® is accepted across all U.S. states.
Visa4Nurses Certification Josef SilnyVisa4Nurses is only accepted by 33 states, including:
- Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming
Before applying, double-check if your target state accepts the Josef Silny Visa4Nurses certification.
Processing Time
- TruMerit™ (CGFNS) can take 2-6 months but they also offer an expedited service for an additional $650, speeding up the review within 10 business days after receiving all documents. They do have a credential transfer portal that can speed up the portal.
- Josef Silny has a regular processing time of about 8 weeks. There is a $200 5-working day rush fee available but all documents have to be in their possession.
Digital Certificate
- TruMerit™ (CGFNS) now offers a digital version of the VisaScreen® certificate, which is accessible immediately to both applicants and authorities through a secure platform.
- Josef Silny currently provides a digital Visa4Nurses certificate.
English Proficiency Tests Accepted
Both TruMerit™ (CGFNS) and Josef Silny require proof of English proficiency but have different accepted tests:
- TruMerit™ (CGFNS)accepts Cambridge, TOEFL iBT, TOEIC, IELTS, MET, OET and PTE Academic. TruMerit™ does not accept the at-home versions of English Language Proficiency exams.
- Josef Silny accepts Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, MET, OET, and PTE Academic on its list of accepted tests. The test must have been completed in the past 2 years.
- Check to make sure that the board of nursing will accept the English proficiency test that you took or plan to take.
Side-by-Side Comparison:
| Feature | TruMerit™ (CGFNS) VisaScreen® | Josef Silny & Associates Visa4Nurses |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $740 | $600 |
| Renewal Fee | $475 | $500 |
| Processing Time | 2-6 months Expedited option (10 days) | 8 weeks Expedited option (5 days) |
| Digital Certificate | Yes | Yes |
| English Tests Accepted | Cambridge, TOEFL iBT, TOEIC, IELTS, MET, OET and PTE Academic | Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, MET, OET, and PTE Academic |
| Accepted in All States | Yes | No (excludes NY, NC, CA, etc.) |
Final Thoughts:
If you’re targeting states like California or New York, TruMerit™ (CGFNS) is your best bet for a universally accepted VisaScreen®. However, if you’re looking to save on the initial application fee and don’t plan to work in those states, Josef Silny might be a good option.
*The prices and information is accurate as of October 24, 2024
