TN Visa for Nurses 2026: Complete Guide for Canadian RNs
Canadian nurses are in high demand in the US. Here's exactly how to get your TN visa and start working.
High Demand in 2026
The US nursing shortage continues. Many hospitals offer sign-on bonuses of $10,000–$30,000 and TN visa sponsorship for Canadian RNs.
Requirements for Nurse TN Visa
To qualify as a Registered Nurse under TN status, you need:
- Canadian citizenship (not just permanent residency)
- Nursing degree from an accredited Canadian program (BScN, BN, or diploma RN)
- Provincial RN license in good standing
- US state nursing license for the state where you'll work
- VisaScreen Certificate from CGFNS (required for all healthcare workers)
- Job offer from a US employer
The CGFNS VisaScreen Process
This is the biggest hurdle for nurses. The VisaScreen certificate verifies your education, license, and English proficiency. Here's the timeline:
| Step | Timeline | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Create CGFNS account & apply | 1 day | $540 |
| Request transcripts from nursing school | 2–4 weeks | $50–100 |
| English proficiency test (if required) | 1–2 weeks | $200–300 |
| CGFNS review & certificate issued | 8–12 weeks | Included |
English Proficiency Exemption
Canadians educated in English are often exempt from the English test requirement. CGFNS will confirm based on your transcripts.
Getting Your US State License
You need a license in the specific state where you'll work. Most states require:
- NCLEX-RN exam — The US nursing licensure exam. You can take it in Canada at Pearson VUE centers.
- Application to state board — Each state has different requirements and fees ($100–$400)
- Background check — Fingerprinting required in most states
Pro tip: Apply to a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state like Texas, Arizona, or Colorado. A compact license lets you work in 40+ states.
Salary Expectations in 2026
| Location | Average RN Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | $120,000–$150,000 | Highest pay, high cost of living |
| Texas | $75,000–$95,000 | No state income tax |
| New York | $90,000–$120,000 | NYC pays premium |
| Florida | $65,000–$85,000 | No state income tax |
| Midwest (OH, MI, MN) | $65,000–$80,000 | Lower cost of living |
Step-by-Step Timeline
- Start CGFNS VisaScreen (3–4 months before target start date)
- Register for NCLEX-RN and schedule exam
- Apply for state license once NCLEX passed
- Job search — Many hospitals recruit Canadian nurses directly
- Get job offer letter with TN-specific language
- Apply at border or US consulate with all documents
- Start working!
Documents for TN Application
- Canadian passport (valid 6+ months)
- VisaScreen certificate from CGFNS
- US state nursing license
- Job offer letter (see our letter template)
- Nursing degree/diploma
- Canadian nursing license
- $80 fee (land border) (cash or card at border)
Common Mistake
Don't go to the border without your VisaScreen certificate. It's legally required for nurses and you will be denied entry without it.
Finding TN-Sponsoring Employers
Many US hospitals actively recruit Canadian nurses:
- HCA Healthcare — Largest hospital system, locations nationwide
- Kaiser Permanente — California-focused, excellent benefits
- Mayo Clinic — Minnesota, Arizona, Florida
- Cleveland Clinic — Ohio and Florida
- Travel nursing agencies — Aya Healthcare, Cross Country, AMN Healthcare
Check our TN visa job board for current nursing positions.
Last updated: May 2026