The United States is one of the most popular destinations for nurses worldwide, with high salaries, excellent working conditions, and numerous opportunities for career advancement. However, due to the ongoing nursing shortage in the country, hospitals, medical facilities, and nursing homes are increasingly offering visa sponsorship to foreign nurses. For those who want to work as a nurse in the United States in 2025, it is very important to understand the visa options, requirements, and job market. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how foreign nurses can use visa sponsorship to secure a nursing job in the United States.
Why the United States Needs Foreign Nurses
Increasing Nursing Shortage in the United States
The United States has been facing a nursing shortage for several years, and this demand is expected to continue to increase in 2025. According to a report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, millions of nursing job openings need to be filled in the coming years. The main reasons for this shortage include an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, and many nurses retiring.
High demand for specialized nurses
Certain nursing professions are in higher demand than others. For example, US hospitals and clinics have a high demand for nurses who specialize in critical care, geriatric care, maternity, and mental health. Employers in the medical field are actively recruiting foreign nurses with these skills to fill key positions.
Attractive Salary and Benefits
Nursing jobs in the US offer very competitive salaries. The average salary for a registered nurse (RN) ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and specialty. In addition to high wages, nurses receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation, and opportunities for career advancement.
Types of US Nursing Visas
Foreign nurses must obtain a work visa to be employed in the US. There are several visa options, each with different requirements and benefits.
H-1B Visa for Specialized Nurses
The H-1B visa is designed for highly skilled workers, such as specialized nurses with advanced degrees. To qualify for an H-1B visa, nurses must have at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a job offer from a U.S. employer. However, this visa is limited in number and not all nurses qualify.
EB-3 Visa for Permanent Residency
The EB-3 visa is one of the most common routes for foreign nurses looking to work in the United States on a long-term, stable basis. This visa grants permanent residency (green card) and is available to skilled workers, including registered nurses. To apply for an EB-3 visa, nurses must have a job offer from a U.S. medical facility and meet licensing and certification requirements. Many U.S. employers sponsor foreign nurses in this category.
TN Visa for Nurses from Canada and Mexico
Nurses from Canada and Mexico can apply for a TN visa under the NAFTA/USMCA agreement. This visa allows qualified nurses to work in the United States if they have a formal job offer from a U.S. employer. TN visas are processed faster than H-1B and EB-3 visas, making them a convenient option for qualified applicants.
J-1 Visas for Exchange Visitor Nurses
The J-1 visa allows foreign nurses to work temporarily in the United States under the exchange visitor program. However, J-1 visa nurses are required to return to their home country for at least two years after completing their employment in the United States, unless they receive a waiver.
Foreign Nurse Qualification Requirements
To get visa sponsorship and work in the US as a nurse, candidates must meet several requirements, including education, licensure, and language proficiency.
Education
Foreign nurses must have a nursing degree or diploma from an accredited institution in their home country. The degree must be equivalent to the standards set by the US nursing regulatory agency. Most employers prefer candidates with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) over diploma holders.
Passing the NCLEX-RN Exam
To work as a registered nurse in the US, foreign applicants must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This exam tests nursing knowledge and ensures that foreign nurses meet US medical standards. The NCLEX-RN is mandatory in all 50 states.
English Language Proficiency
Since English is the primary language in the US medical field, nurses from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate language proficiency. Most nursing boards and employers require candidates to pass the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam.
State Licensing Requirements
Each state in the United States has its own licensing requirements for registered nurses. Foreign nurses must apply for licensure through the nursing board of the state in which they plan to work. This process may include submitting educational documentation, background checks, and passing additional tests.
How to Apply for a US Nursing Job with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Research and Select the Right Visa Type
The first step is to determine which visa category you fall into based on your education, experience, and whether or not you have employer sponsorship.
Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Foreign nurses must register and pass the NCLEX-RN exam before applying for a job. This test can be taken in a variety of countries through Pearson VUE testing centers.
Step 3: Apply for a Sponsored Nursing Job
Foreign nurses must find an employer to sponsor their visa application. Hospitals, nursing homes, and staffing agencies frequently hire foreign nurses. Visa sponsorship opportunities are posted on job search platforms such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn, as well as hospital career websites.
Step 4: Obtain a Visa Screening Certificate
A visa screening certificate is issued by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) and is mandatory for foreign nurses applying for a U.S. visa. This certificate certifies your educational background, NCLEX-RN results, and English language proficiency.
Step 5: Employer Submits Visa Application
Once the employer offers you a job, they apply to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor a work visa for the nurse. The approval process varies depending on the visa category.
Step 6: Attend an interview at a U.S. embassy
After the visa application is approved, the nurse must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. Successful applicants will receive a visa and can travel to the U.S. to start work.
Conclusion
Conclusion For foreign nurses, the United States offers great opportunities, competitive salaries, and career advancement. With a high demand for medical professionals, many hospitals and medical facilities are offering visa sponsorship in 2025. By meeting the necessary qualifications, passing the required exams, and securing a job offer from a U.S. employer, foreign nurses can successfully immigrate to the United States and build a rewarding career in the United States.