The first step is typically a pre-assessment form and an initial interview. Having these core documents ready can significantly speed up the evaluation process and lead to an immediate job offer and contract.

1. Professional Credentials

These documents prove you are an educated, licensed, and experienced nurse.

• Valid Nursing License (Home Country): A clear, non-expired scan or photo of the front and back of your current nursing license from the country where you practice. This must be translated into English if not originally in English.
• Detailed Nursing CV/Resume: This must be up-to-date and include specific information on:
  • Unit/Specialty History: Clearly list every unit and specialty you’ve worked in (e.g., ICU, Medical-Surgical, Emergency Room).
  • Employment Dates: Exact start and end dates for every nursing position.
  • Current Responsibilities and Skills: A clear list of your current acute care duties. Agencies highly prefer current bedside acute care experience (often a minimum of 12 months in the last 18 months).
• Nursing Diploma/Degree Certificate: Copy of your educational qualification (BSN or equivalent).

2. Immigration & Testing Status

While your agency will manage the paperwork, they need proof of your eligibility for U.S. practice.

• NCLEX-RN Exam Results (Highly Recommended): If you have already passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), submit the results. Passing the NCLEX is the biggest factor that accelerates your entire process.
  • (If you haven’t passed the NCLEX, many agencies will still accept your application and help guide you through the process while they begin credentialing.)
• Passport: A clear copy of the biographical page of your current, unexpired passport.
• English Proficiency Exam Results (If Taken): Results from IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted tests.
  • Note: Agencies can often file the I-140 visa petition before you take the English test, but it is required for the final VisaScreen certification.

3. Initial Forms

These are forms provided by the agency itself to start the legal process.

• Agency Application Form: A comprehensive online questionnaire detailing your personal history, education, and career goals.
• Signed Privacy/Agreement Form: To allow the agency to begin reviewing your credentials and sharing necessary data with their legal team.

💡 Sage’s Tip: Focus on the “Big Three”

If you are just starting, concentrate on achieving the “Big Three” to make yourself instantly competitive for any U.S. sponsor:

• Pass the NCLEX-RN.
• Pass the English Language Exam (IELTS/TOEFL).
• Maintain current acute care bedside experience.

Passing the NCLEX means the agency can immediately file the EB-3 visa petition on your behalf, turning your immigration clock on right away!