VisaScreen is a crucial step for international nurses aiming to work in the U.S. under the EB-3 visa category. This certification, administered by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS), ensures that foreign-educated nurses meet U.S. healthcare standards. Not only does it verify education and professional credentials, but it also checks English proficiency. For this reason, obtaining VisaScreen is essential for those pursuing a green card under the EB-3 category. Furthermore, the process might seem complex, but with the right guidance, it becomes more manageable.
What is VisaScreen and why is the VisaScreen required for EB-3?
VisaScreen for EB-3 nurses is required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to ensure that nurses possess the necessary qualifications. For instance, the certification ensures that foreign nurses are on par with U.S.-trained healthcare professionals. During your U.S. embassy interview, you will be required to present the VisaScreen certificate. Without this important document, your application could be delayed or even denied. Therefore, preparing for the VisaScreen early is crucial to avoid complications later in the process.
What is needed to apply for a VisaScreen?
To apply for VisaScreen, nurses must submit the following:
- Educational Credentials: CGFNS will evaluate your nursing education to ensure it meets U.S. standards.
- Nursing License: Submit proof of your nursing license from your home country.
- English Proficiency Test Scores: You need to pass one of the following exams:
✓ NOTE: The English exam scores required for VisaScreen applications and for license endorsement may vary by state.
- Reading: 22
- Listening: 21
- Speaking: 26
- Writing: 24
- Free Resources: TOEFL Official Practice Test and EdX TOEFL Preparation
- Overall Band Score: 6.5
- Speaking: 7.0
- Free Resources: IELTS Official Practice Materials and Road to IELTS
- Listening: 725
- Reading: 725
- Speaking: 160
- Writing: 150
- Free Resources: TOEIC Sample Tests and Global Exam TOEIC Prep
- Reading: 300
- Listening: 300
- Writing: 300
- Speaking: 350
- Free Resources: OET Sample Tests and Official OET Prep
- Overall Score: 176
- Speaking: 185
- Free Resources: Cambridge English Practice Tests and Cambridge English Free Materials
- Overall Score: 55
- Speaking: 50
- Free Resources: Pearson PTE Practice Tests and Magoosh PTE Prep
- Overall Score: 55
- Speaking: 55
- Free Resources: MET Practice Materials and Free MET Practice Test
How to apply for a VisaScreen?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for VisaScreen:
1. Create an Account on CGFNS
- Visit CGFNS.org and create an account with your personal information.
2. Select the VisaScreen Service
- Once logged in, choose the VisaScreen service from the list.
3. Complete the Online Application
- Fill out the online form, including educational background, license details, and work experience.
4. Submit Required Documents
- Transcripts: Have your nursing school send official transcripts directly to CGFNS.
- License Verification: Your nursing board should send proof of your license to CGFNS.
- English Test Results: Ensure your English exam provider sends the results directly to CGFNS.
5. Pay the Application Fee
- The fee is $590(USD, as of September 2024), payable online via credit card, debit card, or electronic check.
6. Track Your Application
- You can monitor your application’s status by logging into your CGFNS account.
7. Receive Your VisaScreen Certificate
- Once approved, CGFNS will issue your VisaScreen certificate, which is needed for your embassy interview.
How long is the validation of VisaScreen?
After you receive your VisaScreen certification, it will be valid for five years. This is important because, if your immigration process takes longer than anticipated, you may need to renew the certification before finalizing your green card application. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep track of your certification’s expiration date.
When should you apply?
It’s recommended to apply for VisaScreen once you have passed your English exam. The entire process, from application submission to receiving your certification, can take several months. Consequently, starting the process early will help prevent delays in your visa application. Ideally, applying as soon as possible after meeting all the requirements is the best approach to avoid any last-minute complications.
Additional Tips for Applicants:
- Start Early: Request your transcripts and license verification as soon as possible, as gathering these documents can take time.
- Check Document Submission: Ensure that all documents are sent directly from the appropriate institutions to CGFNS to avoid delays.
- Prepare for English Exam Submission: Coordinate with your exam provider to send your scores to CGFNS without delay.