Your dream of working as a nurse in the USA is achievable. Navigate the credential evaluation, licensing, and visa process with our comprehensive guide for international nurses.
Foreign LPNs in USA
Avg Evaluation Time
States Accepting
Job Placement Rate
While nurses from any country can apply, those from these regions often have smoother equivalency processes due to similar curricula:
* Note: Even from these countries, a CGFNS evaluation is usually mandatory.
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
Submit your transcripts and license for review. This verifies your education matches US standards.
Take the TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic if required by your target state board.
Choose a state, submit your CGFNS report, and apply for licensure by examination.
Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) and pass the national licensure exam.
Secure a job offer and get your VisaScreen certificate (required for immigration).
Complete consular processing for your EB-3 or other work visa and move to the USA!
Most State Boards require a CES Professional Report from CGFNS International. This report compares your foreign education to US standards.
This provides a detailed analysis of the credentials earned at multiple levels of nursing education.
Avoid these pitfalls to prevent delays:
Preferred by many boards.
Widely accepted alternative.
** Requirements vary by state. Some states (like NY, FL) may waive tests for graduates of English-speaking programs.
| State | Foreign Training? | English Test? | Report Type | Processing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Yes | Conditional | CGFNS CVS | 6-8 Months |
| Texas | Yes | Yes (TOEFL/IELTS) | CES Professional | 3-5 Months |
| California | Yes | Yes | Direct Breakdown | 12+ Months |
| Florida | Yes | Yes | CES Professional | 3-4 Months |
| Illinois | Yes | Yes | CES Professional | 4-6 Months |
Foreign nurses often struggle not with medical knowledge, but with "nursing style." The US NCLEX focuses heavily on:
The NCLEX is now available internationally in many countries! You may not need to travel to the US just to take the test.
Check Pearson VUE International Locations →The most common pathway for nurses. It provides permanent residency but has a backlog (retrogression) depending on your country.
Generally NOT applicable for LPNs, as the position usually doesn't require a bachelor's degree.
Mandatory for all health professionals getting a work visa. Verifies your education and English skills again.
Some foreign programs teach theory and clinicals at the same time. US boards (like CA) sometimes reject
this.
Solution: Apply to states like NY or FL first, then endorse later.
You need an SSN to get the physical license.
Solution: Some states issue a letter
allowing you to test without an SSN, but you can't work until you arrive and get one.
"It took me 2 years from Philippines to Texas. The paperwork was endless, but working as an LPN here has changed my family's life. Don't give up!"
- Maria S., LPN (Texas)
"I failed the IELTS twice. I kept studying. Now I work in a long-term care facility in Florida and I'm bridging to RN soon."
- Adebayo O., LPN (Florida)
"The CGFNS process was confusing. LPN-LVN.com guides helped me understand which report I actually needed."
- Priya K., LPN (New Jersey)
By submitting, you agree to receive information from schools that match your interests.
Yes! Many foreign RNs choose to license as LPNs first in the US because the NCLEX-PN is slightly easier and the process can be faster. You can always bridge to RN later.
No. You take the NCLEX to get licensed. You need the license (or passing result) to get a job offer and visa sponsorship.
Budget between $1,500 - $3,000 USD for CGFNS reports, state application fees, Pearson VUE testing fees, and English tests. This does not include travel or visa fees.
The process is complex, but the reward is a fulfilling career in US healthcare. Take the first step today.