What’s next after passing the NCLEX?

USA

Published 19 February 2025

Passing the NCLEX-RN is a proud moment and one that you should celebrate and enjoy. But you may be wondering, what’s next? While you wait to receive your official license, it’s time to consider the next steps on the way to achieving your American Dream.

Being a U.S. registered nurse means that many opportunities are available to you. This is the first step in your journey to achieving your American dream. In this blog, we discuss where to go from here and what to consider after passing your NCLEX-RN exam.

Next steps after passing the NCLEX exam

1. Find a U.S. nursing role

Now that you’ve passed the NCLEX, you can start your jobs search. When searching for and applying to nursing vacancies, you’ll typically encounter one of two options:

Working with a recruitment agency like Espirita to secure a job

Applying directly to open vacancies on your own

The benefit of working with an agency is having assistance with credentialing and licensure. In the USA, agencies like Espirita assist with booking flights and accommodation during your relocation, as well as obtaining a visa.

If you secure employment directly with an employer, you’re responsible for navigating all paperwork and the logistics of relocation. Even the smallest error in paperwork or missed deadline could lead to delays in your relocation timeline.

When looking for a nursing role in the U.S., it’s also important to know which speciality you’re interested in. This will help with finding a role that suits your experience or a role that you’re able to transfer your current skills to.

Whatever route you choose to follow, make sure that the process is transparent and that all parties involved have your best interest at heart.

2. Apply for your visa

Next step If you choose to move to the U.S. with the help of an international recruitment agency, you will receive support with your visa application. However, if you apply directly to a job, you will need to manage the visa process on your own.

The type of visa you apply for will depend on the country you’re applying from, any personal circumstances such as dependents and processing times. Espirita can assist with the application process and recommend the best visa to apply for.

Once your visa is approved, you will need to complete any remaining licensing or credentialing requirements specific to the U.S. state that you will work in.

Espirita provides relocation support that includes assistance with travel arrangements and temporary accommodation and helps with settling in smoothly.

The process, from securing a job offer to arriving in the U.S., can take several months so it’s important to plan ahead. You may also need to complete background checks, medical screenings and other steps before starting work.

Navigating the transition can be complex, but with the right support, you can confidently take the next step in your nursing career in the U.S. We recommend you take each day as it comes and rely on the expert advice and guidance of your international nurse recruiter.

3. Maintain your nursing skills and experience

In any profession, it’s important that the skills needed to perform in your role are in line with the expected requirements and remain up to date. Your medical knowledge in the healthcare industry will enhance your experience when you relocate. Plus, staying current with the latest advancements in nursing practices, technology and patient care standards will help you adapt more easily to the U.S. healthcare system.

Many employers value candidates who actively pursue professional development through certifications, additional training or continuing education courses. Gaining experience in your chosen specialty will improve your job prospects and make you a more competitive applicant.

By demonstrating your commitment to professional growth, you’ll be in a strong position to secure rewarding opportunities and advance your career in the U.S. Another advantage is that the skills you develop will boost your confidence in your ability and ease your transition in a new work environment.

4. Make sure your nursing licensure remains valid

Nursing licenses aren’t valid indefinitely, meaning you will have to renew your license whether you’ve started working yet or not. In general, licensure is renewed every two to three years in the U.S., although the exact renewal date can vary from state to state.

Relocation to the U.S. can take up to 24 months, so we recommend that you stay up to date with your chosen State Board of Nursing and its licensure renewal policy to work as a nurse in the U.S.

5. Move to the USA and start your new nursing role

Taking this next step after passing the NCLEX exam is an exciting milestone in your nursing career, opening the door to incredible opportunities in the U.S. A nursing career in the United States allows you to experience a new culture and way of life while developing your talents in renowned healthcare facilities. Working abroad comes with countless benefits, including higher earning potential, career progression and building a future filled with professional growth and adventure.

With Espirita by your side, the process becomes smooth and stress-free. Our team specialises in helping international nurses navigate every stage, including:

Securing the right visa

Finding a job that aligns with your skills and aspirations

Guiding you on licensing

Arranging relocation logistics

Helping you settle into your new home and community

Why is it important to pass the NCLEX?

Put simply, you can’t practice nursing without passing the NCLEX exam. It’s a key step in obtaining licensure which you need to work as a nurse in the U.S.

Nursing is one of the oldest professions in the world. The care and dedication provided by nurses to patients while they are vulnerable is unparalleled. The nursing profession maintains and promotes overall health and wellbeing. The NCLEX exam upholds professional standards, safeguards patient safety and ensures nursing licensure. 

Passing the NCLEX validates your experience and skill in the nursing profession and opens the doors to professional opportunities abroad. Nurses who pass the NCLEX are equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to deliver high-quality care, and in the U.S. healthcare system, this is essential to work in the as a nurse.

If you’re preparing to take the exam, try our free NCLEX practice questions and answers to feel confident on test day.

Roles in the U.S. for nurses from across the world

Whether you’re looking for opportunities in a bustling city hospital or a quieter countryside healthcare setting, we offer nursing roles across the United States. As a leading international nursing agency, Espirita specialises in matching nurses from around the world with roles that align with their professional goals and their American Dream — we help you build the life and career you’ve always dreamt of.

From securing the right job and visa to settling into your new community, our end-to-end service makes moving to the U.S. seamless and stress-free. Take this life-changing step with confidence, knowing you have expert guidance every step of the way. Our personalised approach ensures that you receive tailored support throughout your relocation journey.