The United States has a high demand for skilled nurses, making it a top destination for foreign-trained nurses seeking career opportunities. Many U.S. healthcare employers sponsor international nurses for work visas, including the H-1B, EB-3, and TN visas (for Canadian/Mexican nurses). Below is a step-by-step guide on how to secure a nursing job with visa sponsorship in the U.S.
1 Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:
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Valid Nursing License: Must be equivalent to a U.S. RN license (NCLEX-RN exam required).
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English Proficiency: Pass the IELTS or TOEFL if educated in a non-English speaking country.
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Educational Credentials: Have a nursing diploma or degree (CGFNS evaluation may be needed).
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Work Experience: Some employers prefer 1-2 years of clinical experience.
2 Obtain Necessary Certifications
A. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
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Required for all foreign-trained nurses to practice in the U.S.
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Apply through your state’s Board of Nursing.
B. Get Credentials Evaluated (CGFNS or ERES)
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The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) verifies foreign education.
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Some states require a VisaScreen Certificate for visa applications.
C. State-Specific Licensing
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Each state has different requirements (e.g., New York, California, Texas are popular for foreign nurses).
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Apply for a nursing license in the state where you plan to work.
3 Find Employers Who Sponsor Visas
Many U.S. hospitals and healthcare agencies hire international nurses. Some well-known sponsors include:
A. Major Hospital Chains
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HCA Healthcare (sponsors H-1B and EB-3 visas).
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Kaiser Permanente (hires foreign nurses, especially in California).
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Mayo Clinic (offers visa support for specialized roles).
B. Healthcare Staffing Agencies
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AMN Healthcare (recruits international nurses for U.S. jobs).
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Avant Healthcare Professionals (specializes in visa sponsorship).
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O’Grady Peyton International (places foreign nurses in U.S. hospitals).
C. Government & Veterans Hospitals
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VA Hospitals (sometimes sponsor EB-3 visas for permanent residency).
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Indian Health Service (IHS) (hires nurses for rural areas).
4 Apply for the Right Visa
The most common visa options for nurses include:
A. H-1B Visa (Temporary Work Visa)
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For RNs with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
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Requires employer sponsorship (limited availability).
B. EB-3 Visa (Green Card for Skilled Workers)
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Permanent residency option for nurses.
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Employer must prove no qualified U.S. workers are available.
C. TN Visa (For Canadian & Mexican Nurses)
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Only for citizens of Canada/Mexico under USMCA (formerly NAFTA).
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Requires a job offer and RN license.
D. J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor Program)
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Temporary option for training, but may require a 2-year home residency rule before applying for another visa.
5 Job Search & Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Resume & Cover Letter
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Follow U.S. resume standards (1-2 pages max).
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Highlight NCLEX pass status, clinical experience, and certifications.
Step 2: Apply Directly to Hospitals & Agencies
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Check job boards like Indeed, NurseFly, and Hospital Career Pages.
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Use keywords like “visa sponsorship” or “international nurses welcome”.
Step 3: Attend Nursing Job Fairs
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Many agencies host virtual and in-person recruitment events for foreign nurses.
Step 4: Interview & Job Offer
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Expect phone/Skype interviews initially.
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Once hired, the employer will file the visa petition (H-1B, EB-3, etc.).
6 Visa Approval & Relocation
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After visa approval, apply for a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN).
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Some employers assist with housing, relocation, and licensing transfers.
7 Alternative Pathways
If sponsorship is difficult, consider:
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Working as a CNA First: Gain U.S. experience while preparing for the NCLEX.
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Studying in the U.S.: An F-1 student visa allows part-time work, with OPT extension options.
Conclusion
Securing a nursing job with visa sponsorship in the U.S. requires proper licensing, certification, and finding the right employer. Major hospital chains and staffing agencies actively recruit foreign nurses, especially for high-demand states like Texas, Florida, and New York. By passing the NCLEX, obtaining a VisaScreen certificate, and applying to visa-friendly employers, you can successfully start your nursing career in the U.S.
