New I-140 Filing Policy
Interstaff is pleased to announce an important policy update that will streamline the immigration process for international nurses.
Effective immediately, Interstaff will no longer require nurses to pass an English exam before filing the I-140 petition for a green card.
- Once you have passed the NCLEX, Interstaff will file your I-140—even if you have not yet completed your English exam.
- The only exception applies to nurses who were not educated in English and must first pass an English exam in order to obtain a CES (Credential Evaluation Service) report before taking the NCLEX.
This change reflects our commitment to reducing barriers in the immigration process. Given the delays caused by visa retrogression, we do not want English testing requirements to slow your progress further. We are confident in your ability to pass the English exam when the time comes, but more importantly, we believe you should be able to begin your immigration journey as soon as possible.
Why English Exams Are Still Required
While English proficiency is no longer a prerequisite for I-140 filing, it remains an essential step in the overall process. Nurses must demonstrate English language skills to qualify for VisaScreen certification for their green card application and nursing licensure in the United States.
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are the two exams most widely accepted by U.S. state boards of nursing. These exams ensure that nurses are prepared to communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals.
Key Information at a Glance
- Which exams are currently accepted by Interstaff? IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT.
- Required scores (for VisaScreen):
- TOEFL iBT – Overall 81, with a speaking score of at least 24.
- IELTS Academic – Overall 6.5, with a speaking score of at least 7.0.
- Score validity: Both IELTS and TOEFL scores are valid for two years.
- Other exams (PTE or OET): If you have already passed these and the scores are valid, they may be accepted for VisaScreen. However, many U.S. state boards of nursing prefer IELTS or TOEFL for licensure.
Our Commitment to You
This policy update is designed to help nurses take the first steps toward their U.S. career without unnecessary delay. Interstaff remains committed to supporting you through every stage of the process, including preparation for the English exam when it becomes necessary.
For questions about this update or guidance on your next steps, please contact us at recruiting@interstaffinc.com.
We look forward to continuing to support your journey toward a nursing career in the United States.