From England to America

What you need to practice veterinary medicine in Florida, USA.

If you’re a veterinarian trained in England and you’re considering practicing in Florida, USA, there are several important steps and considerations involved in making this transition. These include obtaining the necessary certifications, securing the appropriate visa, understanding Florida-specific requirements, and preparing for the logistical aspects of your move. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Certification and Licensing

To practice as a veterinarian in Florida, you’ll need to meet several qualifications:

• Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) Certification: This program, facilitated by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), certifies that the education and skills of foreign-trained veterinarians are equivalent to those educated in the United States. The certification process involves:
  • Proof of Graduation from a veterinary school.
  • Passing the Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination (BCSE).
  • Completing a Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE).
  • Demonstrating proficiency in English through an exam like the TOEFL.
• Pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE): After ECFVG certification, you must pass the NAVLE to be eligible to apply for licensure in Florida.
• Florida State Licensing: Apply for a license from the Florida Board of Veterinary Medicine. This may involve additional requirements such as a state-specific jurisprudence exam.

2. Work Visa

You will also need a work visa to legally practice in the U.S.:

• H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupations): This is likely the most applicable visa for veterinarians. It requires sponsorship from a potential employer and is subject to caps and a lottery system.
• TN Visa: Available to Canadian and Mexican citizens under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), this visa is not applicable to UK citizens unless they hold dual citizenship with Canada or Mexico.
• J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor): If you are participating in an exchange program that includes graduate medical education or training.

3. Preparing for the Move

• Secure a Job Offer: You need a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your visa. Start by looking for veterinary practices, research institutions, or academic positions in Florida that are willing to sponsor H-1B visas.
• Understand the Local Market: Florida has a diverse range of environments from urban areas to rural communities, each with different veterinary needs. Familiarize yourself with local animal health concerns, especially those unique to Florida’s climate, such as heatstroke and heartworm disease.
• Plan Financially: Consider the cost of living in different parts of Florida, state taxes, startup costs for setting up a practice, and the economic implications of moving and establishing yourself in a new country.
• Professional Liability Insurance: This is crucial in the U.S. and you should ensure you are adequately covered before starting practice.
• Join Professional Organizations: Membership in organizations such as the Florida Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA) can provide valuable networking opportunities, professional development, and local industry insights.
• Continuing Education: Florida requires continuing education for license renewal. Start planning how you will meet these requirements.

4. Cultural and Practical Adjustments

• Legal and Ethical Standards: Familiarize yourself with the ethical and legal standards of veterinary practice in the U.S., which may differ from those in the UK.
• Community Engagement: Integrating into your local community and engaging with pet owners will be essential for a successful practice.

Moving to Florida to practice veterinary medicine involves navigating regulatory requirements, securing employment and visa sponsorship, and making significant logistical preparations. Thorough planning and early initiation of the required steps can help ensure a smooth transition.