Pharmacists

Recruit Pharmacist to USA

Recruiting pharmacists to the USA involves a series of regulatory and immigration steps similar to those for healthcare professionals like nurses. The process requires meeting U.S. licensing requirements, securing a suitable visa, and navigating the immigration system. Below is a detailed guide on how to recruit pharmacists from to the USA:

1. How we recruit:

To work as a pharmacist in the U.S., candidates must meet specific educational, credentialing, and examination requirements.

Educational Credentials:
- The candidate must have a pharmacy degree (Bachelor of Pharmacy or Doctor of Pharmacy) from an accredited institution.
- If the candidate has a Bachelor’s degree, they may need additional credits to meet the U.S. requirement of a Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy) level, depending on the state.
Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE):
- The FPGEE, conducted by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), evaluates if the educational background of the foreign-trained pharmacist meets U.S. standards.
- Applicants must first apply to the NABP for the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) Certification, which verifies their educational credentials and English proficiency.
English Proficiency:
- Pharmacists must pass an English proficiency exam like TOEFL iBT, which evaluates reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX):
- After clearing the FPGEE and obtaining FPGEC certification, candidates need to pass the NAPLEX to demonstrate their knowledge and competence in pharmacy.
State-specific Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE):
- Many states also require passing the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE), which tests knowledge of state-specific pharmacy laws.

2. Visa Options:

H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupation):
- This is the most common visa for pharmacists, as it is meant for specialty occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree. The sponsoring employer must show that the candidate holds a role requiring specialized knowledge.
- Note that H-1B visas are subject to an annual cap, and the process can be competitive.
EB-2 or EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Immigrant Visas):
- The EB-2 Visa is for advanced degree holders, which may apply to pharmacists with a Pharm.D. or equivalent qualification.
- The EB-3 Visa is suitable for professionals holding a bachelor’s degree. This visa is often used by employers to recruit pharmacists for permanent residency.
- For either option, the employer must file a Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) with the Department of Labor and then proceed to file an I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

3. Assist with Licensing and Registration:

Help candidates navigate the application process for the FPGEE and coordinate with the NABP for FPGEC certification.
Guide them through obtaining state licensure by ensuring compliance with local Board of Pharmacy requirements.

4. Immigration and Relocation Support:

Provide assistance with the visa application process, ensuring the necessary documentation (PERM, I-140, etc.) is completed accurately and on time.
Offer relocation packages that cover travel, housing, and initial settling-in costs. Some agencies and employers also assist with finding temporary accommodation and handling state board requirements.

5. Onboarding and Integration:

Design a structured onboarding program that includes orientation to the U.S. healthcare system, training on electronic health records (EHR) used in the pharmacy setting, and cultural integration.
Establish a mentorship program to ensure smooth adaptation and ongoing professional development.