Proven Guide: How to Pass the VisaScreen Certificate for US Nursing Jobs (2025)

How to Pass the VisaScreen Certificate for US Nursing Jobs

If you’re an international nurse dreaming of a career in the United States, obtaining the VisaScreen certificate is one of the most important steps in the process.

This certification, issued by CGFNS International, verifies that your nursing education, licensure, English proficiency, and professional training meet U.S. standards. Without it, you cannot work legally as a nurse in the U.S., even if you already passed the NCLEX. That’s why learning how to pass the VisaScreen certificate for U.S. nursing jobs in 2025 is essential for every foreign-trained nurse seeking sponsorship and employment abroad.

In this guide, we’ll break down the VisaScreen requirements, documents you need, exam tips, common mistakes to avoid, and proven strategies to ensure your application gets approved quickly. Whether you’re applying from the Philippines, Nigeria, India, or anywhere else in the world, this article will give you the clarity and confidence to succeed in your VisaScreen journey.

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What Is the VisaScreen Certificate and Why Is It Required?

The VisaScreen: Visa Credentials Assessment Certificate is a mandatory requirement for foreign healthcare professionals, including nurses, who want to work in the United States. It is issued by CGFNS International (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) and serves as proof that you meet U.S. standards for safe and effective nursing practice.

The VisaScreen process verifies several critical elements:

• Education: Confirms your nursing degree or diploma is equivalent to U.S. standards.

• Licensure: Validates your active nursing license in your home country or elsewhere.

• English Proficiency: Ensures you can communicate effectively by requiring exams like IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT (unless you’re from an English-speaking country).

• NCLEX-RN or CGFNS Exam: Confirms that you have the professional knowledge and competency to practice safely in the U.S.

 Why it matters: Without a VisaScreen certificate, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will not issue you a work visa or green card, even if you already have a job offer. This makes it a non-negotiable step for every international nurse in 2025.

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VisaScreen Eligibility and Required Documents (2025)

Before you can begin working as a nurse in the United States, the VisaScreen certificate is a mandatory requirement for foreign-trained nurses. This certificate, issued by CGFNS International, verifies that you have the education, licensure, and English proficiency needed to provide safe and effective care in the U.S. healthcare system.

To make the process smoother in 2025, it’s essential to understand both the eligibility criteria and the documentation required.

Eligibility Requirements for VisaScreen in 2025

To qualify for the VisaScreen certificate, you must meet the following standards:

• Recognized Nursing Education
  You need to hold a nursing degree or diploma that is equivalent to U.S. nursing education standards. This ensures your training meets professional requirements for patient safety and quality care.

• Valid and Active Nursing License
  You must possess an unrestricted nursing license in your home country (or another jurisdiction where you are legally registered as a nurse). Any suspensions, disciplinary actions, or restrictions can affect your eligibility.

• Pass Required Examinations
  Nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN, which is the U.S. licensure exam for registered nurses. In some cases, CGFNS may also require the CGFNS Qualifying Exam for additional evaluation before approving your certificate.

• English Language Proficiency
  Unless exempt (for example, if you studied in an English-speaking country such as the U.K., Canada, or Australia), you must take an English test. The accepted exams are:

  • IELTS Academic (minimum overall score of 6.5, with a 7.0 in speaking)

  • TOEFL iBT (minimum total score of 83, with required sub-scores).

Required Documents for VisaScreen Application

When applying to CGFNS for the VisaScreen certificate, be prepared to submit:

• Academic Transcripts
  Official nursing school transcripts must be sent directly from your school to CGFNS. These documents prove your coursework and clinical hours meet U.S. standards.

• Nursing License Verification
  Verification of your nursing license must come directly from the issuing nursing council or licensing authority. This confirms your license is valid and unrestricted.

• Exam Results
  Proof of NCLEX-RN success (or CGFNS Qualifying Exam results, if applicable) must be included.

• English Test Scores
  IELTS or TOEFL official results must be reported directly to CGFNS. Make sure to select CGFNS as a recipient when registering for your test.

• Identity Proof
  A copy of your passport identification page is required to verify your identity.

• Completed Application Form and Fees
  The VisaScreen application must be submitted online via the CGFNS portal, along with payment of processing fees.

Start early! One of the biggest reasons for VisaScreen delays is late submission of transcripts and license verifications. Nursing schools and licensing boards often take weeks—or even months—to send documents. By requesting them early and following up regularly, you can significantly reduce your processing time.

Step-by-Step Application Process for the VisaScreen Certificate (2025)

Applying for the VisaScreen certificate may seem complicated, but when you break it down into manageable steps, the process becomes much less stressful. In 2025, CGFNS has streamlined parts of the process through its online portal, but it still requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here’s a complete step-by-step breakdown of how to successfully apply for the VisaScreen in 2025:

Step 1: Create a CGFNS Account

• Visit the official CGFNS website: https://www.cgfns.org.

• Register for a new applicant account if you don’t already have one.

• Once inside the portal, select VisaScreen: Visa Credentials Assessment as the service you are applying for.

Use a professional email address that you check frequently, as all updates, requests, and status changes will be sent there.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

• Carefully fill in your personal information, including your name exactly as it appears on your passport.

• Provide your educational background, listing every nursing program you have attended.

• Enter your professional license details, including country, state/province, and license number.

• Pay the application fee, which is currently $665 (2025 rates). Note that additional charges may apply for:

  • Document processing (if resubmissions are required).

  • Re-issuance of certificates.

  • Extra verification requests.

Double-check all entries before submission. Even small errors, like spelling your name differently from your passport, can delay the process.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

CGFNS requires official documents to verify your qualifications:

• Academic Transcripts – Request your nursing school to send these directly to CGFNS. Hand-delivered or photocopied transcripts are not accepted.

• License Verification – Ask your nursing council or licensing board to send verification directly.

• Identity Documents – Upload a clear, valid copy of your passport identification page.

• Payment Proof – Keep a copy of your CGFNS fee receipt.

Begin requesting transcripts and license verifications immediately after submitting your application. Schools and licensing bodies can take weeks or months to respond, making this the number one reason for VisaScreen delays.

Step 4: Take the Required Exams

To demonstrate competency, you must meet both professional and language testing requirements:

• NCLEX-RN or CGFNS Qualifying Exam – Passing one of these is mandatory. Most applicants take the NCLEX-RN.

• English Proficiency Exam – If not exempt, take either:

  • IELTS Academic – Minimum overall 6.5, with a 7.0 in speaking.

  • TOEFL iBT – Minimum total score of 83, with specific sub-scores required.

When registering for IELTS or TOEFL, select CGFNS as a score recipient so results are sent directly without extra delays.

Step 5: CGFNS Review and Verification

• Once all documents and exam results are received, CGFNS begins its comprehensive review.

• They check that your nursing education is equivalent to U.S. standards, confirm your license validity, and verify your exam scores.

• CGFNS may contact your school or licensing authority directly if something is unclear, so monitor your email regularly for updates or requests.

Tip: You can log into your CGFNS account anytime to track the progress of your application.

Step 6: Receive Your VisaScreen Certificate

• Once approved, CGFNS issues your VisaScreen certificate, valid for five years.

• This certificate must be presented to:

  • U.S. immigration authorities during your visa application.

  • Your U.S. employer before you can start working legally as a nurse.

💡 Pro Tip: Start early! The VisaScreen process often takes 4–6 months (sometimes longer) due to slow transcript or license verification. Applying at least 6–9 months before your planned move helps avoid stressful delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the VisaScreen Process (2025)

Even highly qualified nurses can face setbacks if they overlook important details in their VisaScreen application. Below are the most frequent mistakes—and how to avoid them:

1. Submitting Incomplete Documents

• Many applications are delayed because transcripts or license verifications are missing.

• Solution: Double-check that your school and licensing board send documents directly to CGFNS. Keep track of all submissions.

2. Waiting Too Long to Take English Tests

• IELTS or TOEFL scores must be valid at the time of application. Some nurses apply before testing, which slows the process.

• Solution: Book your exam early and aim for scores higher than the minimum requirement.

3. Not Preparing for NCLEX or CGFNS Exams Properly

• Failing or delaying the NCLEX adds months to the process.

• Solution: Use structured review programs and practice questions before scheduling your test.

4. Using Unreliable Recruitment Agencies

• Some agencies make false promises about “fast-track” certificates.

• Solution: Only work with trusted agencies like Avant Healthcare Professionals, O’Grady Peyton, or Conexus MedStaff.

5. Ignoring Email Updates from CGFNS

• CGFNS often requests clarifications or extra documents. Ignoring these requests can cause your case to stall.

• Solution: Check your CGFNS account and email regularly for updates.

6. Missing Policy Changes

• Immigration rules and English test requirements may change yearly.

• Solution: Stay updated with CGFNS, USCIS, and your target Board of Nursing for real-time updates.

 Reminder: Avoiding these mistakes can save you months of waiting time and help you secure your U.S. nursing job in 2025 faster.

Tips to Successfully Pass and Get Approved for the VisaScreen Certificate (2025)

Passing the VisaScreen is not about luck—it’s about preparation and strategy. Here are proven tips that will help international nurses succeed in 2025:

1. Start Credentialing Early

• Request transcripts and license verifications months in advance, as delays from schools and boards are the #1 cause of stalled applications.

• Keep copies of every request and follow up regularly with institutions.

2. Invest in English Test Preparation

• Even if you feel confident in English, the IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT are challenging.

• Join prep courses, use online practice tests, and aim for scores above the minimum to stand out.

3. Stay Organized with a Document Checklist

• Create a folder (digital + physical) with all requirements: transcripts, licenses, exam results, ID, receipts, and correspondence.

• Organization ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

4. Prepare Thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN

• The NCLEX is the gateway to U.S. nursing practice. Without it, your VisaScreen cannot be approved.

• Use high-yield NCLEX review materials, practice daily, and consider joining review classes.

5. Apply to Multiple Hospitals and Agencies

• Don’t wait for just one employer. Applying widely improves your chances of landing sponsorship quickly once your VisaScreen is complete.

6. Be Flexible on Location

• Nurses open to working in states with high demand (Texas, Florida, or the Midwest) often get faster offers and sponsorships.

7. Stay Informed on Policy Updates

• Immigration policies and test requirements may change yearly. Follow USCIS, CGFNS, and your target state’s Board of Nursing to stay current.

💡 Key takeaway: The more proactive you are with preparation, the smoother and faster your VisaScreen approval will be—bringing you closer to your U.S. nursing career in 2025.

Conclusion: Your Path to U.S. Nursing Success Starts with the VisaScreen

For international nurses, the VisaScreen certificate is more than just a piece of paper—it’s the official clearance that opens the door to working legally in the United States.

In 2025, hospitals and staffing agencies continue to rely on this certification to ensure foreign nurses meet professional, educational, and language standards.

By starting early with credentialing, preparing thoroughly for the NCLEX and English exams, and staying organized with your documents, you can avoid delays and secure your VisaScreen approval faster. Remember, every step you take toward passing the VisaScreen brings you closer to landing a sponsored U.S. nursing job, earning a competitive salary, and building a future for yourself and your family.

Whether you’re applying from the Philippines, Nigeria, India, or anywhere else in the world, the journey may feel challenging—but thousands of nurses succeed every year, and so can you. Begin your application today, stay consistent, and take one step at a time. Your U.S. nursing career in 2025 is waiting.

Reliable External Resources for VisaScreen Certificate and U.S. Nursing Jobs

To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, here are trusted resources every international nurse should bookmark:

• CGFNS International (VisaScreen Information)
  https://www.cgfns.org/services/visascreen/

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – Work Visa Information
  https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states

• National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) – NCLEX Exam
  https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex

• Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) – Application Portal
  https://apply.cgfns.org/

• U.S. Department of State – Immigration Visa Information

• IELTS Official Website – Test Registration and Prep
  https://www.ielts.org/

• TOEFL iBT Official Website
  https://www.ets.org/toefl