An individual who has successfully completed a nursing program equivalent to a LPN or RN in a foreign country and who has moved to the United States but has not taken a licensure exam cannot work as a nurse. The individual cannot work as an Illinois CNA until the registry shows that the individual has met the training requirements.
- A copy of a diploma or other proof of completing the course translated into English is required.
- A copy of official transcripts translated into English. The transcript must include the number of hours of training received for each course and clinical (practicum) hours.
- A copy of his or her Social Security card.
- Proof of employment authorization, if individual is not a U.S. citizen, such as a Resident Alien Card, U.S. Visa, Form I-94 or Permanent Resident Card.
- Pass a written competency test.
- The Foreign Nurse Application to become an Illinois Nurse Aide (CNA) is a one-time eligibility application procedure. Once you apply you become ineligible to resubmit a Foreign Nurse Application in the future unless otherwise instructed by INACE or the Health Care Worker Registry.
To become a CNA as a foreign trained nurse, contact the Illinois Department of Public Health Registry at 1-844-789-3676. [Foreign Nurse Application Form] The Foreign Nurse Application Form may be mailed to Health Care Worker Registry, 525 West Jefferson Street, 4th Floor, Springfield, IL 62761, emailed to dph.hcwr@illinois.gov or faxed to 217-524-0137.