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As an international nurse aspiring to work in the United States, navigating the licensing process can be complex. A critical step in this journey is having your credentials evaluated by accredited institutions. While the CGFNS is well-known, another trusted organization recognized by many U.S. state boards of nursing is Josef Silny and Associates.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide to Visa4Nurses, a service offered by Josef Silny. It aims to help international nurses obtain the necessary Certification for Health Care Workers. Moreover, Visa4Nurses is comparable to the VisaScreen service provided by CGFNS. Furthermore, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires this certification for U.S. visa applications.
The Importance of Credential Evaluation
Before we dive into the details of Visa4Nurses, let’s first discuss the importance of credential evaluation. Here are the reasons why USCIS mandates credential evaluation:
Standardization of Global Education Systems
Educational systems vary significantly worldwide. Credential evaluation helps standardize these differences, ensuring that an international nurse’s education is comparable to that of a U.S.-trained nurse. In addition, this standardization is vital for maintaining quality and consistency in healthcare delivery.
Maintaining High Professional Standards
By evaluating credentials, organizations like Josef Silny & Associates help uphold high standards in the nursing profession. This process ensures that nurses meet U.S. healthcare standards regardless of their origin country, providing safe and effective patient care.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Credential evaluation addresses issues such as educational system discrepancies, grading scale variations, and the need for accurate translations. In addition, Josef Silny & Associates has developed strategies to overcome these challenges, ensuring that evaluations are precise and trustworthy.
Visa4Nurses: An Overview
Visa4Nurses is a specialized service that determines whether international nurses are eligible for the Certification for Health Care Workers. Moreover, this certification is a requirement for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, and Licensed Vocational Nurses applying for U.S. visas.
Visa4Nurses: Equivalent to CGFNS’ VisaScreen
Visa4Nurses is equivalent to the VisaScreen service offered by CGFNS. Thus, USCIS recognizes both for healthcare worker certification.
Visa4Nurses: Acceptance by State Boards of Nursing
It’s important to note that while Visa4Nurses is widely recognized, not all State Boards of Nursing (BONs) accept Josef Silny’s credential evaluations. Fret not, for we will provide a comprehensive list of accepting states later in this article.
Visa4Nurses: Digital Certification Development
As of June 2024, Josef Silny & Associates is developing a digital version of the Certificate for Health Care Workers. Moreover, this development comes in response to client inquiries and the confirmation that the U.S. Embassies and USCIS accept digital versions from CGFNS.
Once completed, the digital certificates will be verifiable on Josef Silny’s website. To ensure smooth transitions and universal acceptance, the company plans to issue hard copy and digital versions at no additional cost.
Visa4Nurses Required Documents
The application process for Josef Silny’s credential evaluation is straightforward and similar to that of CGFNS. Applicants must submit the following documents:
1. Application Form
2. Related Learning Experience(RLE) and Transcript of Records (TOR) (The whole page of the document should be submitted)
3. High School Diploma (photocopy)
4. Photocopy of PRC ID License (front and back with signature)
5. Photocopy of Passport with Signature
6. Passport Size Photo
7. English Test Result Form
8. NCSBN Candidate Number
Processing Time of Visa4Nurses
According to Josef Silny’s website, they have a processing time of at least 15 working days up to 20 working days. However, we have to consider the timeliness of requirement submission. Thus, the whole process may take around 2-3 months. While Josef Silny advertises a standard processing time of 15-20 business days, actual timelines can vary. For instance, during peak application seasons (often January-March), processing may take up to 25 business days.
In contrast, CGFNS typically takes 8-12 weeks and may take up to 4-6 months depending on the timeliness of requirement submission. However, both organizations offer expedited services, but at an additional cost. Josef Silny’s rush service and CGFNS’ expedited service can reduce processing to 10 business days. However, please note that neither organization can guarantee that it will be released within their given timeframe. Furthermore, it only ensures that your documents are processed and reviewed and that any outstanding requirements are communicated to you promptly.
BONs that accept Josef Silny’s Visa4Nurses
As of June 2024, here are the states that accept the evaluation and translating services of Josef Silny. The board of nursing states comprises of the following:
Before getting a Visa4Nurses service, verifying with the Board of Nursing where you wish to obtain your license is crucial. While Visa4Nurses prepares your credentials for USCIS acceptance, individual state BONs may have additional requirements for international nurses. This step can save you time by ensuring Visa4Nurses’ evaluation meets all the criteria for your desired state licensure.
IPASS Processing: Streamlined Application Assistance
For nurses seeking additional support in their Visa4Nurses application process, IPASS Processing is the key. IPASS Processing assists international nurses with their Josef Silny Visa4Nurses applications, providing expert guidance and support.
Benefits of IPASS Processing
a. Experienced guidance: Benefit from the expertise of professionals familiar with the intricacies of the Visa4Nurses application.
b. Time-saving: IPASS can help streamline the document gathering and submission process, potentially reducing overall processing time.
c. Reduced stress: Let IPASS handle the details, allowing you to focus on preparing for your nursing career in the U.S.
d. Application review: IPASS can review your application before submission, helping to ensure completeness and accuracy.
Application Process with IPASS
IPASS Processing works closely with applicants, guiding them through each step of the Visa4Nurses application:
1. Initial consultation to assess your specific needs
2. Assistance in gathering and organizing required documents
3. Review of your application for completeness and accuracy
4. Submission of your application to Josef Silny & Associates
5. Follow-up and status updates throughout the evaluation process
While IPASS Processing charges a fee, many nurses consider the investment worthwhile. The hassle-free assistance provided by IPASS provides peace of mind and potential time savings. You may schedule a free consultation with IPASS Processing today!
Preparing for Success
To ensure a smooth evaluation process, consider the following tips:
Start Early
Begin the credential evaluation process as early as possible to account for potential delays in document gathering and verification.
Be Thorough
Please carefully review all requirements and submit all requested documents in the specified format to ensure a smooth application process.
Plan for English Proficiency
If required, schedule and complete your English proficiency exam well in advance, ensuring the results are sent directly to Josef Silny.
Consider Professional Assistance
If you feel overwhelmed by the process, consider using a service like IPASS Processing to guide you through your Visa4Nurses application. IPASS will stay in touch with Josef Silny throughout the process on your behalf. Furthermore, IPASS will promptly respond to requests for additional information or clarification.
The Bottom Line
Josef Silny’s Visa4Nurses service offers international nurses a valuable pathway to obtaining the necessary credentials for working in the United States. This service is crucial because it provides thorough evaluations and the required Certification for Health Care Workers. In addition, it helps qualified nurses navigate the complex process of international licensure and immigration.
Understanding the requirements, preparing thoroughly, and choosing a reputable evaluation service like Josef Silny & Associates can significantly ease your journey. It paves the way for a successful nursing career in the United States. Moreover, you can successfully navigate the credential evaluation process with proper preparation and the right support. Furthermore, it moves you closer to achieving your goal of practicing nursing in the United States and becoming an international nurse.
Are you ready to take the next step in becoming a nurse in the United States? Get in touch with IPASS today! Don’t let the credential evaluation process intimidate you. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your goal. Your future as a nurse in the United States awaits – take that first step today!
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