INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service)

To petition for your 'green card' you will need to have either CGFNS or a full, unrestricted US nursing license and a sponsoring hospital (link about our hospitals). Family members (spouse and children) can adjust status with you and will receive their own green cards. The current waiting time for approval (once your petition has been filed) is up 2-5 five months, depending on the service center where the petition is filed.

While waiting for your petition to be approved, you can complete TOEFL, TSE , NCLEX etc. if you haven't already done so and apply for Visa Screen. If you plan carefully, by the time your approval comes through, you will have everything you need to start work in the US.

Please note that INS does not look kindly on those who apply through several hospitals to go with the first petition to come through. This maybe considered FRAUD! However, you have the right to change your mind and apply to as many hospitals as you want, provided you inform Hospital and INS of your decision. This could delay the process.

For more information:

INS Website: http://www.ins.usdoj.gov/graphics/index.htm
US State Department website: http://travel.state.gov/visa_services.html