TruMerit (CGFNS) is an approved credentialing agency for nine healthcare occupations:

• Registered Nurses
• Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurses
• Physical Therapists (not Physical Therapist Assistants)
• Occupational Therapists
• Physician Assistants
• Audiologists
• Speech Language Pathologists
• Clinical Laboratory Technicians / Medical Laboratory Technicians
• Clinical Laboratory Scientists / Medical Laboratory Technologists

Note: Applicants whose specialty falls in fields like Cardiovascular Perfusion, Biology, Microbiology, or Cytology do not fall within the technologist category and are outside the scope of this certification requirement.

A VisaScreen® Certificate issued by TruMerit (CGFNS) is valid for five years from the date it is issued. After five years, you will need to apply for a renewal to keep your certification active.

No. For Registered Nurses, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN is a mandatory component of the VisaScreen® assessment. You must pass the NCLEX before your certificate can be issued. This requirement confirms that your clinical knowledge meets US standards.

Accepted tests include TOEFL® iBT, IELTS, OET, and others. The required minimum scores vary by profession. Always check the official TruMerit (CGFNS) website for the most current score requirements for your specific profession, as these are subject to change.

Once TruMerit (CGFNS) has received all necessary documents, the review process may take up to four days — provided that all requirements are met. However, delays are common depending on how quickly your school and licensing authorities submit the required verification documents. This document-gathering phase is where the most time is lost, and expert management makes a significant difference.

A CES (Credentials Evaluation Service) Report is an advisory report that only evaluates your education. It is often required by State Boards of Nursing for NCLEX eligibility. A VisaScreen® Certificate is a comprehensive screening that includes education, licensure, English proficiency, and exam verification — and it is specifically required for US immigration purposes. They are two completely different services for two different purposes.

No. You do not need a US Social Security Number to apply for and receive a VisaScreen® Certificate. This makes it accessible to international nurses who have not yet entered the US or obtained an SSN.

Yes. If your certificate is about to expire, you can apply for a renewal through your TruMerit (CGFNS) account. The renewal process is typically simpler than the initial application, but you may need to re-verify your licenses and potentially re-take an English exam if your test scores have expired.

No. The VisaScreen® Certificate is a mandatory document required by US immigration law, but it is just one component of your overall visa application. The final decision to grant a visa rests with the US consular officer and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Having your VisaScreen® in order, however, removes a major barrier to approval.

An expert agency understands the intricate requirements of the VisaScreen® process. We ensure your application is filled out correctly, guide you on which documents to request from which institutions, and follow up with those institutions to ensure timely submission. This coordination is crucial for avoiding long delays that can directly impact your visa petition and job offer timeline.