How European Nurses can register with the Florida Board of Nursing

To work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Florida, USA, European nurses must complete a series of steps to register with the Florida Board of Nursing. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Evaluate Your Qualifications

- Educational Requirements: Ensure that your nursing education meets the U.S. equivalent of a Registered Nurse program. This typically means you need to have completed a nursing program that is comparable to a U.S. Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing.

- Licensure Verification: You must hold an active and unencumbered nursing license in your country of origin.

2. Credential Evaluation

- Choose a Credentialing Agency: The Florida Board of Nursing requires a credential evaluation to verify that your foreign nursing education is equivalent to U.S. standards. Common agencies include:

- CGFNS International (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools)

- Josef Silny & Associates, Inc.

- Educational Records Evaluation Service (ERES)

- Submit Required Documents: You will need to submit transcripts, proof of your nursing license, and possibly other documents for evaluation. These documents may need to be translated into English and authenticated.

3. English Language Proficiency

- If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency. The Florida Board of Nursing typically accepts:

- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

- TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication)

- Confirm the required scores with the Florida Board of Nursing.

4. NCLEX-RN Exam

- Apply for Authorization to Test (ATT): Once your credentials are evaluated and approved, you need to apply for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for licensure.

- Prepare for the NCLEX-RN: This is a standardized exam that tests your nursing knowledge and skills. Numerous resources are available, including study guides, online courses, and practice exams.

- Take the Exam: You can take the NCLEX-RN in the USA or at various international testing centers.

5. Application to the Florida Board of Nursing

- Complete the Application: Apply online through the Florida Board of Nursing website. You will need to provide personal details, your credential evaluation report, and other relevant documents.

- Submit the Application Fee: There is a fee for the application, which is non-refundable.

6. Background Check and Fingerprinting

- Complete a Background Check: You will need to undergo a background check, which includes fingerprinting. This is mandatory for all nursing applicants in Florida.

- Approved Vendors: The Florida Board of Nursing has approved vendors for fingerprinting. You may be able to complete this step before arriving in the U.S., depending on where you reside.

7. Obtain a Visa

- Apply for a Work Visa: European nurses will need a work visa to practice in the USA. Common options include the H-1B visa (for specialized workers) or the EB-3 visa (for skilled workers).

- Sponsorship: You will typically need a job offer from a U.S. employer who will sponsor your visa application.

8. Job Search and Employment

- Start Your Job Search: Once licensed, you can begin searching for nursing positions in Florida. Utilize job boards, nursing recruitment agencies, and hospital websites.

- Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to the U.S. job market, emphasizing your qualifications and readiness to work in Florida.

9. Continuous Professional Development

- Stay Informed: Keep up with Florida’s continuing education requirements to maintain your RN license. Florida requires a certain number of continuing education hours every renewal cycle.

10. Join a Support Network

- Connect with Other International Nurses: Consider joining networks or associations for international nurses in the U.S. These groups can provide support, guidance, and resources as you navigate your new career in Florida.

By following these steps, European nurses can successfully register with the Florida Board of Nursing and begin their careers as Registered Nurses in Florida, USA.

To register as a nurse with the Florida Board of Nursing in 2024, the costs can vary depending on the specific application type and the requirements for international nurses. Below is a general breakdown of potential costs:

1. Application Fee:

Licensure by Endorsement (for nurses already licensed in another U.S. state): $110
Licensure by Examination (for those who have never been licensed in any U.S. state): $110

2. NCLEX Exam Fee:

NCLEX-RN Examination: $200 (paid to Pearson VUE, the organization that administers the NCLEX exam)

3. Credential Evaluation:

International nurses are typically required to have their credentials evaluated by a recognized agency, such as the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS).
CGFNS Credential Evaluation Fee: Approximately $350-$500, depending on the service level required.

4. Background Check and Fingerprinting:

Fingerprinting: Approximately $50-$75 (This may vary depending on the provider and location.)
Background Check: Included in the fingerprinting fee, as it is conducted by the state once fingerprints are submitted.

5. English Proficiency Testing (if required):

TOEFL or IELTS: $200-$250, depending on the testing center and country.

6. License Verification (if applicable):

If you are already licensed in another state or country, you might need to pay for verification.
Verification Fee: $30-$50, depending on the state or country of the original licensure.

7. Other Potential Costs:

Document Translation (if required): Costs can vary widely but generally range from $20-$50 per page.
Additional Education or Courses: If your credentials do not meet U.S. standards, you may need to take additional coursework, which can vary in cost.

Total Estimated Cost:

For an international nurse, the total cost could range from $800 to $1,200 or more, depending on the specific requirements and any additional steps needed to meet Florida's licensing standards.

These costs are estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances. It's advisable to consult the Florida Board of Nursing's official website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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