Will I be reimbursed by Medical Express?
Yes. The VisaScreen^TM application and NCLEX (if needed for certification) will be reimbursed after six weeks on the first assignment following the completion of the VisaScreen^TM. A contract will be required in which you will agree to three consecutive assignments with Medical Express.

When did the new requirement go into effect?
On July 25, 2003, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published its final rule related to Section 343 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA). Section 343 requires that certain foreign healthcare workers have their credentials evaluated and certified before they will be allowed to work in their profession in the United States. The deadline for the new requirements had been postponed until July 26, 2005. This postponement only covered those employed as a travel nurse before September 23, 2003.

I've been working in the U.S. for two years; what happened to the NAFTA agreement? Doesn't that apply anymore?
The Department of Homeland Security has mandated that foreign healthcare workers will have their credentials evaluated and certified before they will be allowed to continue their employment in the United States.

Is the TN Visa the same thing as the VisaScreen^TM?
No. A TN Visa is similar to a passport, authorizing the foreign healthcare professional to work in the United States temporarily. The VisaScreen is an evaluation of the healthcare professional's education. A valid VisaScreen certificate is needed in order to receive a TN visa.

Do I need to submit my high school transcripts?
No, however you will need to submit a copy of your diploma.

Do I have the verifications and transcripts sent to me or to the CGFNS?
The verifications are sent directly to:
VisaScreen^TM: Visa Credentials Assessment
International Commission on Healthcare Professions
3600 Market Street, Suite 400
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2665

Do I need to apply for a license in another state if I currently work in a non-NCLEX state?
No. However, you must take and pass the NCLEX.

Do I have to wait to take the NCLEX before I submit everything?
No, CGFNS will begin a file and assign an ID number to your case. You will receive a letter explaining the number and that they have received your information.

Do I have to submit verifications from the Board of Nursing for a LPN license?
Yes, VisaScreen^TM is required for LPNs.
Here is a listing of all professions needing the VisaScreen^TM:
Counseling psychologists, clinical psychologists, social psychologists, clinical social workers, chiropractors, podiatrists, dieticians/nutritionists, pharmacists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language therapists, audiologists, respiratory therapists, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, licensed vocational nurses, radiological technologists, nuclear medicine technologists, radiation technologists, clinical laboratory scientists (medical technologists), cytotechnologists, dental hygienists, clinical laboratory technicians (medical technicians) and physician assistants.

Does CGFNS want all college transcripts, including transfer credits?
Yes. Transcripts are required for all professional courses.

Does the VisaScreen^TM expire?
Yes. The VisaScreen^TM is only valid for five years.

VisaScreen^TM Quick Reference:
CGFNS Automated Status Check line: (215) 599-6200
CGFNS Applicant Inquiries: (215) 349-8767
CGFNS Web site: www.cgfns.org
NCLEX information

Email: nclexinfo@ncsbn.org
Toll-free: (866) 293-9600
Web site: www.ncsbn.org