The prospect of becoming a Canadian nurse working in the USA is an exciting idea to many, as it represents the opportunity for personal and professional growth. With the U.S. facing a significant nursing shortage, Canadian nurses are increasingly sought after, making the transition an attractive option for those seeking new challenges. Discover how Conexus MedStaff helps Canadian nurses make the move to the U.S. quickly and easily, with expert support and enticing benefits.
How can Canadian nurses work in the USA?
It is a relatively straightforward process for a Canadian nurse to start working in the United States. Due to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Canadian nurses are eligible for a Trade NAFTA* (TN) visa – and the process to have the visa issued is fast too, especially when compared to alternatives.
A TN visa allows nurses to work in the U.S. for up to three years with the possibility of renewal. While the TN visa grants temporary permission to work in the United States, Conexus works to secure a Green Card that provides permanent residency. However, the process for obtaining a Green Card – an EB-3 visa for international nurses – can take around 24 months. As a Canadian nurse with a TN visa, you will be able to start working in the USA while we process your permanent residency.
Conexus provides support at every stage of your U.S. journey. Our expert teams are highly knowledgeable in their specialist areas, which range from immigration to relocation, education, and beyond. You can rely on us to provide honest advice and guidance, with the goal of helping you build a life you’ll love in the USA.
Benefits for Canadian nurses moving to the USA
One of the primary draws for Canadian nurses is the potential for higher salaries. Many U.S. states provide higher pay scales than are available in Canada, along with various benefits that enhance overall compensation. Conexus nurses enjoy competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including life, medical, dental and vision insurance; 401k retirement plan with employer match; transition pay, milestone bonuses and more.
In addition to financial benefits, working in the U.S. allows Canadian nurses to gain valuable experience in diverse healthcare settings. Exposure to advanced technologies, varied patient populations, and different healthcare systems can enrich a nurse's skill set and broaden their career opportunities. This experience can be particularly appealing to those looking to specialize or move into leadership roles in the future.
We recognize that professional growth is important for our international nurses and have developed an award-winning platform to help deliver continued education opportunities. As a nurse working with us, you will have access to Conexus Academy, which offers courses designed and delivered by experienced registered nurses and educators.
We also offer discounted further education at recognized institutes. Additionally, you will be eligible to apply for our EARN Scholarship or Thrive Certification Program, both of which support professional growth for registered nurses in the United States.
Learn more about your opportunities for professional growth with Conexus.
Moving to the USA as a Canadian nurse
The process of working in the U.S. involves several steps, including obtaining the necessary visas and licenses. Conexus will help with every step, offering support and guidance along the way. Canadian nurses benefit from a more streamlined transition in comparison to other international nurses, due to the close relationship between Canada and the United States. It may even be possible to move in a matter of weeks.
Culturally, Canadian nurses often find that they fit well into American workplaces, sharing similar values and work ethics. The camaraderie and collaboration fostered in nursing can make the transition smoother, allowing nurses to quickly adapt and thrive. When you move to the United States with Conexus you join our multicultural community comprising nurses from around the world, giving you the opportunity to learn more about global cultures while establishing your new life in the USA.
Why choose Conexus?
Since 2010, Conexus has helped international nurses from around the world to make their version of the American dream a reality. Our expert teams are highly knowledgeable in their specialist areas, which range from U.S. immigration to relocation, licensing and credentialing, education and beyond.
With the understanding that everyone has a unique vision for their future in the United States, we craft personalized journeys for each of our international nurses. This includes custom education pathways, tailored support and more, with the intention to set you up for success not only during your contract period with us, but well into the future.
If you’re a Canadian nurse interested in becoming part of the Conexus community in the USA, apply now.
*NAFTA, short for the North American Free Trade Agreement, was replaced by the USMCA in 2020.