AdminThe United States healthcare sector continues to grow rapidly, creating numerous opportunities for qualified nurses around the world. Due to the ongoing nursing shortage and the increasing demand for patient care, many U.S. hospitals and healthcare organizations are now offering visa sponsorship jobs for foreign nurses.
This guide provides detailed information about nursing jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship, the different types of nursing roles available, how to apply, the visa process, and where to find legitimate nursing opportunities in 2025/2026.
1. Understanding Nursing Roles in the USA
Nursing positions in the U.S. span a wide range of specializations and responsibilities. Whether you are a registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, or a nurse practitioner, there are opportunities for every qualification level. Below are the most common types of nursing roles that may include visa sponsorship for foreign applicants:
Registered Nurse (RN)
Registered Nurses are in high demand across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Responsibilities:
- Provide direct patient care and monitor patient conditions.
- Administer medications and treatments.
- Coordinate care plans with doctors and healthcare teams.
- Supervise licensed practical nurses and support staff.
Common Visa Type: H-1B, EB-3 (Employment-Based Green Card)
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPNs work under the supervision of RNs or physicians and play a vital role in providing basic nursing care.
Responsibilities:
- Measure vital signs and record patient progress.
- Administer injections and assist in basic medical procedures.
- Provide bedside care and comfort to patients.
Common Visa Type: EB-3 (Skilled Worker or Other Worker Category)
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice nurses with specialized education and certification.
Responsibilities:
- Diagnose illnesses and prescribe treatments.
- Perform physical exams and order lab tests.
- Provide primary and specialized healthcare services.
Common Visa Type: H-1B
Critical Care or ICU Nurse
Critical Care Nurses work in intensive care units, dealing with patients who need constant monitoring.
Responsibilities:
- Monitor life-support equipment and manage critically ill patients.
- Administer high-risk medications and emergency interventions.
Common Visa Type: EB-3, H-1B
Home Health Nurse
Home health nurses visit patients in their homes, providing essential care and education for recovery.
Responsibilities:
- Administer medication and wound care.
- Provide post-surgery or chronic illness management.
- Support family members in home-based patient care.
Common Visa Type: H-1B, EB-3
Pediatric Nurse
Pediatric nurses work with infants, children, and adolescents in hospitals or private clinics.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct growth assessments, administer vaccines, and provide health education to families.
- Support pediatricians during examinations and treatments.
Common Visa Type: EB-3
2. Applying for Nursing Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
Applying for nursing jobs in the U.S. that include visa sponsorship requires preparation, qualification verification, and understanding of the American healthcare system. Follow these key steps to begin your journey:
Research the Market
Start by identifying U.S. states and healthcare facilities facing nursing shortages. States such as Texas, California, Florida, and New York have the highest demand for international nurses. Review hospital websites, recruitment agencies, and healthcare job boards for postings marked “visa sponsorship available.”
Meet Qualifications and Licensing Requirements
Foreign-trained nurses must meet the educational and licensing requirements set by the U.S. Nursing Boards and immigration authorities.
Key requirements include:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent qualification.
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam (National Council Licensure Examination).
- English proficiency test results (IELTS or TOEFL).
- Credential evaluation through CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools).
Professional Registration
Before applying, ensure you are registered with the appropriate state board of nursing. Each state has its own licensing body.
Example:
- California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)
- Texas Board of Nursing
- New York State Education Department
Once approved, you can practice nursing legally in that state.
Securing Visa Sponsorship
To work in the U.S., you need an employer who can sponsor your work visa. Many hospitals and recruitment agencies are approved visa sponsors.
Common U.S. visa categories for nurses:
- H-1B Visa: For nurses in specialized roles such as advanced practice or critical care.
- EB-3 Visa: For professional and unskilled nursing positions leading to permanent residency (Green Card).
- TN Visa (for Canadians and Mexicans): Under the USMCA trade agreement.
Your sponsoring employer will file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) and a Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140) on your behalf.
Searching for Nursing Jobs
You can find visa sponsorship jobs using reputable platforms and agencies:
- Indeed.com – Search for “Nursing jobs with visa sponsorship USA.”
- Glassdoor.com – View salary insights and hospital reviews.
- LinkedIn Jobs – Connect directly with U.S. healthcare recruiters.
- Healthcare staffing agencies such as Adevia Health, Avant Healthcare Professionals, and O’Grady Peyton International specialize in helping foreign nurses secure sponsored jobs in the U.S.
Submitting Applications
Prepare a professional U.S.-style résumé highlighting your education, experience, and certifications. Attach supporting documents such as:
- Nursing license verification
- Passport copy
- English language test results
- NCLEX pass certificate
Follow each employer’s instructions carefully when submitting your online application.
Interviews and Assessments
Most hospitals conduct virtual interviews via Zoom or Skype. Be prepared to answer questions about patient care ethics, emergency handling, and teamwork.
Showcase your adaptability, compassion, and commitment to long-term service.
Final Job Offer and Visa Process
Once selected, your U.S. employer will provide a Certificate of Sponsorship and assist you with the visa application process. Depending on the visa type, the process may take several months. After approval, you’ll receive your job offer letter and relocation assistance.
3. Representative Nursing Roles with Visa Sponsorship in the USA
Below are some examples of nursing positions commonly available with sponsorship for international applicants:
Registered Nurse (Medical-Surgical)
Provides care for adult patients with various medical conditions in hospital settings.
Operating Room (OR) Nurse
Assists surgeons during operations, ensuring sterile procedures and patient safety.
Geriatric Nurse
Specializes in elderly care in nursing homes or rehabilitation centers.
Mental Health Nurse
Works with patients dealing with mental illnesses or emotional distress.
Public Health Nurse
Engages in community outreach, health education, and disease prevention programs.
Emergency Room Nurse
Handles trauma and critical care situations in emergency departments.
Home Care Nurse
Provides patient care in residential settings, often for long-term recovery or disability management.
4. Recommended Avenues for Finding Sponsored Nursing Jobs
While many U.S. healthcare employers recruit directly, foreign nurses should focus on verified institutions and trusted recruitment sources that frequently offer sponsorship.
Major Healthcare Employers Offering Sponsorship
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- AdventHealth
- HCA Healthcare
- UCSF Medical Center
These institutions regularly sponsor foreign nurses under EB-3 and H-1B programs.
Reputable Recruitment Agencies
- Adevia Health – Specializes in international nurse placement and visa sponsorship.
- O’Grady Peyton International – Offers full relocation support and licensing assistance.
- Avant Healthcare Professionals – Focuses on long-term nurse recruitment with green card sponsorship.
- WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions – Connects international nurses with U.S. hospitals.
Online Job Portals
You can use the following websites to search and apply for current nursing positions:
- Indeed.com
- LinkedIn.com/jobs
- Glassdoor.com
- MyVisaJobs.com – Shows recent visa sponsorship filings.
Professional Nursing Associations
Joining U.S. nursing associations helps you connect with recruiters and stay updated on licensing and visa regulations.
- American Nurses Association (ANA)
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
5. Important Considerations
✅ Check Your Qualifications
Confirm your education, license, and work experience meet U.S. standards before applying.
✅ Beware of Scams
Legitimate employers or agencies never charge upfront fees for sponsorship or placement. Avoid suspicious offers.
✅ Stay Updated on Immigration Policies
Monitor updates from USCIS and the U.S. Department of Labor regarding changes in visa eligibility or quotas.
✅ Prepare for Cultural Adjustment
Understand American workplace culture, communication style, and nursing ethics before relocation.
Conclusion
Nursing jobs in the USA for foreigners with visa sponsorship offer an incredible opportunity for career advancement, financial growth, and long-term stability. With the country facing a nationwide nursing shortage, qualified international nurses are in high demand across hospitals, nursing homes, and community healthcare systems.
By meeting the licensing requirements, applying through legitimate sponsors, and staying informed about U.S. visa procedures, you can successfully secure a sponsored nursing position and begin your rewarding journey in the American healthcare industry.
The U.S. healthcare system values compassion, skill, and dedication—making it the perfect destination for nurses ready to make a global impact.
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