All you need to know about retrogression

As the term "retrogression" causes unending anxiety and terror among aspiring international medical professionals who want to work in the United States. We have developed the most suitable way to assist you in comprehending its significance. In this blog, we will explain retrogression and its most often-asked questions to help you navigate your American Dream journey.

What exactly does "retrogression" mean?

The term "visa retrogression" describes a temporary movement in the opposite direction of, or a slowing down of, the rate at which specific categories of foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States are granted visas. This occurs when the demand for visas is higher than the supply of available visas, which is based on the annual limits set by the United States government. In most cases, retrogression happens toward the end of the fiscal year, when the number of visas issued is close to each country's annual limit. There are instances in which a priority date that satisfies the cut-off date for one month will not satisfy it for the following month. On October 1, the beginning of a new fiscal year, there was a fresh supply of visas made available, and in most cases, the issuance of visas returned to where it was before the retrogression.

Should I continue to push my application even though retrogression is still taking place? Will I have to deal with any issues in regard to my NCLEX application?

During a Visa retrogression period, continuing your NCLEX application is not only permissible but also strongly encouraged. A year is typically required to complete the processing time, which includes the time spent preparing for reviews. In addition, the processing time will not be impacted in any way because the application will be sent to credentialing agencies, and the United States Board of Nursing will not play any part in consideration of your NCLEX application. Moreover, the first step toward realizing the American dream is to apply for the NCLEX examination. Immediately after that, you will be required to search for a recruitment agency that will assist you in filing your application for an immigrant visa and take the English test to get certified by the Visa screen. If you want to work in a state other than the one you were initially licensed in, you might also need to get an endorsement added to your license. In a nutshell, even during visa retrogression, you are free to continue with the application process for the NCLEX. Be aware that even if there is a retrogression, your recruitment agency will still be responsible for submitting and filing your 1140 tax return. You should be able to finish all of the necessary documentation, such as the NCLEX License Endorsement, so at this point, all you need to do is wait for your priority date to become current.

Does the retrogression only apply to the Visa application, or will it also affect my eligibility for the NCLEX?

The availability of visas is the only thing that will be impacted by retrogression; the ability of nurses with international education to sit for the NCLEX will remain the same. The visa retrogression will not affect the other procedures required for obtaining a visa, such as taking an English proficiency test for VisaScreen. In addition, it will not have any bearing on the processing timeframe or the evaluation that the credentialing board of nursing will conduct to determine whether you are qualified to take the NCLEX. Because the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) will not be handling the procedures necessary to issue your ATT or distribute your license after you have successfully completed the NCLEX, this information will not have any bearing on those processes. Note that even if there is a retrogression, your recruitment agency will still submit or file your 1140. With the help of the recruitment agencies, you should be able to complete all necessary documentation. This includes the License Endorsement, so you must wait for your priority date to become current before applying for it.

Even if there is a visa retrogression in the United States, do you still recommend that I continue with the VisaScreen process?

Even if there is a visa retrogression, it is still recommended that you complete the VisaScreen certification to stay compliant. The VisaScreen certification is required to obtain an occupational visa to work in the United States for all healthcare professionals who received their education outside the United States. Once it has been issued, the certification itself carries a validity period of five (5) years. The VisaScreen certificate acts as evidence that you satisfy the requirements for your level of English language proficiency as well as specific health and safety standards. Although visa restrictions are tightened, those wishing to become registered nurses in the United States must pass the VisaScreen exam to be eligible for employment.

Retrogression can be a difficult and unpredictable period. Nonetheless, with sufficient knowledge and the assistance of a dedicated employer visa sponsor, international medical professionals can navigate the procedure with greater ease and peace of mind.

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