Travel nursing from Canada to the U.S.
Take your nursing career further with international travel opportunities.
Work in the U.S. as a Canadian RN
Travel nursing in the U.S. gives you the opportunity to discover some of the country’s most exciting destinations. From vibrant cities to scenic coastlines, every assignment offers the chance to experience somewhere new while growing your career and caring for patients at top healthcare facilities.
Getting started is easier than you might think. Our experts guide you through every step of the process, helping streamline your application along the way.
Here’s what’s required to get started:
- Nursing school diploma and official transcripts
- Two years of current experience in your specialty
- Canadian passport
- Passed the NCLEX-RN
- VisaScreen Certification through TruMerit (formerly CGFNS)
- RN license in a qualifying U.S. state
How to become a U.S. travel nurse from Canada
Step 1: Make sure you're eligible
Before you start the process, confirm that you have the following requirements to work as a travel nurse in the U.S.:
- An RN degree from a Canadian nursing program
- At least two years of experience in your specialty
- Passed the NCLEX
If you meet these requirements, register with Aya to get connected with a recruiter who will guide you through the next steps.
Step 2: Complete your credentialing requirements
Before you can work in the U.S., you’ll need to verify your credentials and obtain a qualifying nursing license.
Start your VisaScreen through TruMerit
VisaScreen through TruMerit (formerly CGFNS) verifies that your education and experience meet U.S. nursing standards. Because credential verification can take 3–6 months, it’s best to begin as early as possible. Once you start your first assignment with Aya, we’ll reimburse the cost of your VisaScreen.
Apply for a qualifying U.S. state license
Aya partners with leading healthcare facilities in states that allow Canadian nurses to begin working without a Social Security number (SSN), including: Alaska, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Texas,Washington.
Our licensing team will help you obtain a license in a qualifying state. After entering the U.S., you’ll apply for an SSN, which typically takes 4–8 weeks to receive. Once you have your SSN, you’ll be eligible to apply for licensure in additional states for your future assignments.
Step 3: Secure your first assignment
Once your credentials are underway, it’s time to find the right opportunity. Your dedicated recruiter will help you find and apply for eligible U.S. travel nursing jobs that align with your goals, preferences and experience.
Step 4: Prepare to enter the U.S.
Before your assignment begins, you’ll need to gather the following documents for entry under TN status:
- Valid passport
- Job offer or contract
- VisaScreen or ICHP certificate
- Proof of nursing credentials
- State nursing license
- Additional supporting documents
Within 10 days of your contract start date, you’ll present this documentation when entering the U.S. Our team will be there to help ensure you have everything you need and answer any questions along the way.
Step 5: Arrive and begin your travel nursing journey
Enter the U.S. and apply for an SSN
Once you arrive in the U.S., begin the Social Security number application process. While you can start your first assignment before receiving your SSN, obtaining one will allow you to apply for future licenses and assignments nationwide.
Start your assignment with Aya support
From onboarding through the end of your contract, Aya is here to support you. You’ll have a dedicated team available throughout your assignment, plus access to a 24/7 emergency line for peace of mind whenever you need us.
Benefits of travel nursing in the U.S. with Aya
International travel support
Aya helps you obtain all the necessary requirements to be eligible to work in the U.S.
Competitive pay
Aya offers high-paying jobs for Canadian travel nurses in the U.S., with rates varying based on location, specialty and other factors.
Aya-sponsored housing or housing stipend
Let us handle the logistics or get a stipend to find housing on your own.
Reimbursements
You’ll be reimbursed for your VisaScreen after starting your first Aya assignment — plus additional licensure and relocation, when eligible.
Comprehensive medical plan
You have access to our medical, dental and vision plan starting day one of your assignment.
Flexibility
Once you’re issued an SSN, you’ll have the flexibility to work nationwide. Plus, while your TN status is active, you can enjoy the freedom of taking time off to explore the U.S. between assignments.
If you’re ready to get started, we’re here to help.
We’ll send you detailed instructions for each step of the process, track the status of your application and provide updates along the way so you’re always in the loop.We’re excited to partner with you as you expand your career and start a new adventure in the U.S.
Start your international travel nursing journey today!
Travel nursing from Canada to the U.S.
What are the requirements to become a U.S. travel nurse from Canada?
Canadian nurses looking to travel in the U.S. will need official transcripts from a Canadian nursing program, a diploma/degree, two years of experience in their specialty, a Canadian passport, a passed NCLEX-RN, a VisaScreen through TruMerit and a U.S. state license.
Do I need a Social Security number before my first U.S. travel assignment?
Aya partners with facilities in certain states that allow Canadian travelers to begin working without an SSN. Your recruiter will help you find a role at an eligible facility, so you can begin working while you wait to receive your SSN.
What is TN status for Canadian nurses?
TN status allows eligible Canadian citizens in qualifying professions (including RNs) to work in prearranged U.S. professional roles via a streamlined, non-immigrant work classification under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA). Canadian RNs can apply for TN status at the border, which can be granted for up to 3 years with options to renew.
What documents do I need at the border for TN status?
To obtain TN status, you’ll need to provide your passport, job offer/employment letter, VisaScreen documentation, proof of nursing credentials, U.S. state license and supporting documents. You can confirm with your Aya team that you have everything you need to be granted access.
How long does it take to become a U.S. travel nurse from Canada?
The timeline varies based on how long it takes to complete your VisaScreen and state licensure. Document verification and state board processing take time and can be subject to delays, so we recommend you start early.
What does Aya reimburse for Canadian travel nurses?
After you start your first assignment with Aya, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost of your VisaScreen. If eligible, you may receive reimbursements for licensure or relocation costs as well.
What happens after my first U.S. travel assignment?
After you complete your first assignment with Aya, you have options for your next move. If you love your current facility, you can talk to your recruiter about requesting an extension. If you’re ready for something new, your SSN opens the door to assignments in any state, and our team can help you secure the necessary license.