In recent years, the demand for registered nurses (RNs) in the United States has continued to rise due to an aging population, nursing shortages, and an increasing need for healthcare services. This demand has opened doors for foreign-trained nurses who wish to build a successful nursing career in the U.S., often with the support of visa sponsorship.
If you’re a registered nurse outside the U.S. dreaming of advancing your career abroad, this article is your comprehensive guide to applying for a nursing job in the United States with visa sponsorship.
2. Why Choose the U.S. as a Foreign Registered Nurse?
The United States offers numerous opportunities for healthcare professionals, especially registered nurses. Here’s why many international nurses are choosing the U.S.:
- High Salaries: RNs in the U.S. earn significantly more than in many other countries.
- Advanced Healthcare System: Exposure to state-of-the-art equipment and practices.
- Career Advancement: Wide range of specialties and growth opportunities.
- Diverse Work Environment: Work in multicultural settings with patients from various backgrounds.
- Permanent Residency: Visa pathways can lead to a Green Card or U.S. citizenship.
- Job Security: Nursing jobs are in high demand, leading to job stability.
3. Understanding Visa Sponsorship for Nurses
Visa sponsorship involves an employer (usually a hospital or recruitment agency) in the U.S. sponsoring a foreign nurse to legally work in the country. The employer handles the immigration paperwork, making the process smoother for the applicant.
Visa sponsorship is essential for foreign nurses because it provides:
- Legal right to work in the U.S.
- Opportunity to bring family members (spouse/children) under dependent visas.
- A pathway to permanent residency (Green Card).
4. Types of Visa Available for Foreign Nurses
There are two primary visa types through which registered nurses can enter and work in the United States:
A. H-1B Visa (Temporary Work Visa)
- Limited use for nurses due to strict requirements.
- Mostly for advanced practice nurses or nurse educators.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher is typically required.
B. EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Green Card)
- Most common visa for foreign nurses.
- Employers sponsor nurses for permanent residency.
- Includes the nurse’s spouse and unmarried children under 21.
- Takes longer due to processing times and visa caps.
5. Eligibility Criteria for Nurses Seeking Jobs in the U.S.
To work as a nurse in the U.S., you must meet certain qualifications:
- Registered Nurse License from your country.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred but not always required.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: The national licensing exam for registered nurses in the U.S.
- English Proficiency: Must pass an English language test like TOEFL or IELTS (if from a non-English-speaking country).
- VisaScreen Certificate: A credential verification required for foreign healthcare workers.
6. Steps to Apply for RN Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Educational and Licensing Verification
- Have your nursing degree evaluated by a credentials verification service like CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools).
Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Apply through a state board of nursing and prepare thoroughly for the exam.
Step 3: Apply for VisaScreen Certificate
- Required for the visa process, it verifies your educational, licensing, and English proficiency credentials.
Step 4: Find a Sponsoring Employer
- Search for U.S. hospitals, healthcare centers, or agencies that sponsor foreign nurses.
Step 5: Secure a Job Offer
- Once hired, the employer will initiate the visa petition process.
Step 6: Visa Application and Approval
- USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) will process your petition.
- You’ll attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Step 7: Travel and Start Work in the U.S.
- Once your visa is approved, make arrangements to relocate and start your new job.
7. Best States for Foreign Nurses to Work in the U.S.
Some U.S. states offer better opportunities for nurses, including higher wages, good working conditions, and welcoming policies:
- California – High salary and large immigrant population.
- Texas – Affordable cost of living and large healthcare networks.
- New York – High demand and cultural diversity.
- Florida – Popular for international healthcare professionals.
- Illinois – Accessible public health jobs and large urban hospitals.
8. Top Hospitals in the U.S. Hiring International Nurses
Some of the leading hospitals that hire foreign-trained nurses with visa sponsorship include:
- Cleveland Clinic (Ohio)
- Mayo Clinic (Minnesota)
- Johns Hopkins Hospital (Maryland)
- Mount Sinai Health System (New York)
- Texas Health Resources (Texas)
- Kaiser Permanente (California)
Many of these hospitals partner with international recruitment agencies to bring in qualified talent from overseas.
9. Salaries and Benefits for Registered Nurses in the U.S.
As of 2025, the average salary for registered nurses in the U.S. ranges from $75,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on location and specialization.
Benefits include:
- Health and dental insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plans (401k)
- Educational assistance
- Housing stipends (for travel nurses)
- Relocation allowance
- Signing bonuses
10. Challenges Foreign Nurses May Face
Despite the high rewards, working in the U.S. as a foreign nurse comes with challenges:
- Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to American workplace culture.
- Licensing Complexity: Long and sometimes confusing process.
- Visa Delays: Backlogs in immigration processing.
- Credential Recognition: Not all qualifications are immediately accepted.
- Cost of Living: Some cities are very expensive.
However, with proper planning and support from employers or recruiters, these challenges can be managed.
11. Tips for Successfully Securing a Nursing Job in the U.S.
- Prepare for NCLEX Early: It’s a must-pass for all RNs in the U.S.
- Improve Your English Skills: Good communication is essential in healthcare.
- Use Reputable Recruitment Agencies: They streamline the visa and job placement process.
- Highlight Specialized Skills: Pediatric, ICU, or surgical nurses are in high demand.
- Stay Updated: Follow immigration and healthcare trends in the U.S.
- Join International Nurse Forums: Learn from others who’ve been through the process.
12. Agencies and Recruiters That Help with Visa Sponsorship
Several licensed international recruitment agencies help connect foreign nurses to U.S. employers and handle visa applications:
- Avant Healthcare Professionals
- O’Grady Peyton International
- MedPro International
- PassportUSA
- Global Nursing Recruiters
- Worldwide HealthStaff Solutions
Always research these agencies for legitimacy and success rates before signing contracts.
13. Conclusion
Becoming a registered nurse in the United States as a foreign national is not just a dream—it’s a fully achievable goal. With a growing demand for healthcare professionals, U.S. employers are actively looking abroad to fill nursing shortages.
Visa sponsorships open the door for international nurses to live and work in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems. By understanding the requirements, preparing thoroughly, and seeking guidance through reputable channels, you can start a rewarding nursing career in the U.S.
Whether you’re from the Philippines, Nigeria, India, Ghana, Kenya, or any other country, the journey to becoming a registered nurse in America is worth it—and the time to start is now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does the U.S. nurse visa process take?
A: It can take 12–24 months, depending on the visa type and backlogs.
Q2: Can a nurse bring their family?
A: Yes, EB-3 visas allow you to bring a spouse and children under 21.
Q3: Do all U.S. hospitals offer sponsorship?
A: No, but many do. It’s best to apply through agencies or check job listings that specify visa support.
Q4: Is a BSN mandatory?
A: Not always, but it’s preferred. Diploma and Associate degrees are accepted by some states and employers.
Q5: What is the passing score for NCLEX-RN?
A: The NCLEX-RN is a pass/fail exam. The passing standard is based on your ability to provide safe and effective care.