Healthcare Worker Certification: What You Need to Know

Are you a healthcare professional seeking to work in the United States? Navigating the immigration process can be complex, especially when it comes to meeting the specific requirements for healthcare workers. At HarrisLaw, we specialize in guiding clients like you through every step of the process.

Who Needs Healthcare Worker Certification?

If you are a noncitizen applying for a visa or seeking admission to the United States to work as a healthcare professional, federal law requires you to obtain a healthcare worker certification. This requirement applies to many healthcare roles, including but not limited to:

• Registered Nurses (RNs)
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs)
• Physical and Occupational Therapists
• Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
• Medical Technologists and Technicians (Clinical Laboratory roles)
• Physician Assistants

Note: Physicians are generally exempt from this certification requirement.

What Does the Certification Verify?

Healthcare worker certification ensures that foreign-trained professionals meet U.S. standards for education, licensing, training, and English language proficiency. Specifically, the certification verifies that you have:

1. Comparable Credentials: Your education, training, licensure, and work experience are equivalent to those of U.S. healthcare professionals.
2. Unencumbered Licensure: Your professional licenses are authentic and free of any restrictions.
3. English Proficiency: You have passed standardized English proficiency exams, unless exempted by the program.
4. Licensing Exam or Predictor Test: You have successfully completed a licensing or predictor examination required for your profession.

How to Obtain Certification

Certification is issued by organizations authorized by the Department of Homeland Security, such as:

• The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS): Covers all healthcare occupations.
• The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT): For occupational therapists.
• The Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (FCCPT): For physical therapists.
• Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. (JSA): For nursing professionals.

Each organization has its own application process and requirements, so it’s crucial to ensure you are applying to the correct entity for your occupation.

When Is Certification Required?

A valid healthcare worker certification must be presented in several immigration scenarios:

• Admission to the United States as a healthcare worker.
• Change or Extension of Status (e.g., H-1B visa to another visa type).
• Adjustment of Status to lawful permanent residency.

Once you become a lawful permanent resident, certification is no longer required.

Special Provisions for Nurses

Nurses may submit an alternative document known as a Certified Statement from CGFNS or an equivalent organization if they meet specific criteria, such as:

• Holding a valid, unrestricted state nursing license.
• Passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

English Proficiency Requirements

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in consultation with the U.S. Department of Education, has recently approved a new list of English language proficiency tests and their corresponding passing scores for healthcare workers. This updated list, published by the HHS Health Resources and Services Administration, sets the standard for demonstrating English proficiency as part of the healthcare worker certification process. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is in the process of updating its regulations to reflect these changes. Applicants are encouraged to review the latest approved tests and ensure compliance with these new requirements.

How HarrisLaw Can Help

Applying for a healthcare worker certification is just one part of a complex immigration process. Our team provides comprehensive services, including:

• Reviewing your credentials to ensure compliance with U.S. standards.
• Guiding employers through labor certification and visa petition processes.
• Assisting with visa applications, adjustment of status filings, and more.

Contact Us Today

At HarrisLaw, we understand the challenges you face and are committed to simplifying the path to your professional goals. If you are ready to begin your journey, schedule a consultation with our expert immigration attorneys today.