The United States faces a critical shortage of qualified nurses, making it one of the best times in history for international nurses to explore career opportunities with visa sponsorship. Nursing jobs in USA with visa sponsorship not only provide competitive salaries and benefits but also open doors to long-term residency and career advancement. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities actively seek foreign-trained nurses to fill gaps in healthcare staffing across the country.
Visa sponsorship is one of the most important elements for foreign nurses planning to work in the U.S. It ensures that the employing hospital or healthcare organization takes responsibility for helping international nurses secure legal entry and employment authorization. For nurses coming from countries such as the Philippines, India, Nigeria, and others with strong healthcare training programs, this opportunity can be life-changing.
The demand for nurses is driven by multiple factors—aging population, chronic illnesses, and the post-pandemic healthcare workload. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nursing jobs are projected to grow by 6% through 2032, which translates to over 200,000 job openings each year. For foreign nurses, this is not just a career move but also a chance to achieve financial stability and permanent residency in the United States.
In this guide, we will break down how visa sponsorship works for nurses, which hospitals are sponsoring, the best visa categories, and step-by-step instructions on securing a sponsored nursing job. We’ll also cover FAQs to ensure that international nurses have a full picture of what to expect.
Do Nurses Get Visa Sponsorship?
Yes, international nurses are eligible for visa sponsorship in the United States. The following are the most common options:
- H-1B Visa: Typically used for specialized nurses in critical care or advanced practice roles.
- H-2B Visa: Temporary work visa, less common in healthcare but possible for short-term nursing contracts.
- EB-3 Visa (Green Card Sponsorship): The most common visa pathway for nurses, as it offers permanent residency.
- TN Visa (For Canadian and Mexican Nurses): Special provisions under NAFTA/USMCA for quicker entry into the U.S. job market.
- Employer-Sponsored Visas: Hospitals and staffing agencies directly petition the U.S. government to bring nurses into their facilities.
In short, foreign-trained nurses absolutely can get visa sponsorship, especially through the EB-3 Green Card program, which is widely recognized as the most reliable pathway.
List of Hospitals Sponsoring International Nurses in USA
Many U.S. hospitals and medical centers actively sponsor international nurses. Here is a list of well-known healthcare organizations that provide sponsorship programs:
| Hospital/Healthcare System | Location | Visa Sponsorship Program |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Clinic | Ohio, Florida, Nevada | EB-3 and H-1B sponsorship for nurses |
| Mayo Clinic | Minnesota, Arizona, Florida | International nurse sponsorship, relocation support |
| Johns Hopkins Hospital | Maryland | EB-3 Green Card sponsorship |
| Mount Sinai Health System | New York | Offers nurse recruitment programs with visa support |
| Baylor Scott & White Health | Texas | Sponsorship for international RNs |
| Houston Methodist Hospital | Texas | EB-3 Visa sponsorship for foreign nurses |
| Cedars-Sinai Medical Center | California | Supports nursing visa sponsorship pathways |
| AdventHealth | Multiple States | International recruitment and visa sponsorship programs |
| University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) | Pennsylvania | EB-3 Green Card sponsorship |
| Mercy Health | Midwest States | Supports international nurse hiring with visa programs |
These hospitals are recognized for their structured international recruitment efforts, making them excellent starting points for job applications.
Which Visa is Best for Nurses in USA?
The EB-3 visa (Employment-Based, Third Preference Category) is widely considered the best option for foreign nurses seeking long-term employment in the United States. Here’s why:
- Permanent Residency: EB-3 leads to a Green Card, allowing nurses to live and work in the U.S. permanently.
- Family Benefits: Spouses and children under 21 can also gain U.S. permanent residency.
- Employer-Sponsored: The hiring hospital takes responsibility for the immigration process, making it easier for candidates.
- High Demand Occupation: Nursing is classified as a “Schedule A” shortage occupation, meaning the process is faster compared to other professions.
- Stability: Unlike temporary visas, EB-3 ensures job security and eliminates the need for frequent visa renewals.
While the H-1B visa is another pathway for specialized nurses, it is subject to a lottery system and caps. In contrast, EB-3 visas are more reliable and sustainable, especially for those planning to settle in the U.S. permanently.
How to Find a Nursing Job that Sponsors a Visa in the USA?
Securing a nursing job with visa sponsorship requires careful planning and the right strategy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare Credentials
- Obtain a nursing degree recognized in your home country.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam, a mandatory requirement for all nurses practicing in the U.S.
- Gain English proficiency certification (IELTS or TOEFL) as required.
- Identify Sponsoring Employers
- Research hospitals and healthcare staffing agencies known for sponsoring nurses.
- Use trusted portals such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or hospital career pages.
- Look into international recruitment agencies specializing in healthcare.
- Apply for Jobs
- Tailor your resume to U.S. standards.
- Highlight clinical experience, specialty areas (ICU, ER, Pediatrics, etc.), and certifications.
- Interview and Offer
- Attend virtual or in-person interviews.
- Secure a job offer that includes visa sponsorship confirmation.
- Visa Filing and Approval
- Employer files petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Once approved, complete consular processing in your home country.
- Relocation to the U.S.
- After visa approval, move to the U.S., complete orientation, and begin employment.
With the right preparation and determination, international nurses can successfully land a U.S. job with sponsorship within 12–18 months.
International Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
International nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in the U.S. are available across multiple healthcare sectors:
- Hospitals: General hospitals, trauma centers, and children’s hospitals hire foreign-trained RNs.
- Long-Term Care Facilities: Nursing homes and rehabilitation centers sponsor nurses due to chronic staffing shortages.
- Outpatient Clinics: Specialty care clinics, dialysis centers, and urgent care facilities recruit international nurses.
- Travel Nursing Agencies: Some agencies arrange EB-3 sponsorships, allowing international nurses to work in different states.
- Research Institutions: Major universities and medical centers sponsor nurses for clinical research roles.
Benefits of international nursing jobs in the U.S.:
- Competitive salaries (average $85,000+ annually depending on state and specialty).
- Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans.
- Relocation assistance, housing support, and cultural training.
- Opportunities for career growth into advanced practice nursing, education, or leadership roles.
The U.S. healthcare system provides a structured pathway for international nurses to not only practice their profession but also build a long-term life in America.
50k Nursing Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship Program
As of 2025, there are an estimated 50,000+ nursing jobs available with visa sponsorship in the United States. This massive demand is fueled by several factors:
- Retirement Wave: A significant percentage of the nursing workforce is nearing retirement.
- Population Growth: The aging “baby boomer” population requires more healthcare services.
- Shortage of U.S.-Trained Nurses: Domestic nursing schools cannot meet the growing demand.
- Pandemic Aftermath: COVID-19 increased staffing needs in hospitals, creating long-term shortages.
Specialties in High Demand:
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurses
- Emergency Room (ER) Nurses
- Surgical Nurses
- Pediatric Nurses
- Geriatric/Long-Term Care Nurses
- Mental Health and Psychiatric Nurses
International nurses who secure sponsorship can benefit from salaries ranging between $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on location and experience. With consistent growth, the number of open nursing positions in the U.S. is expected to continue rising through the next decade.
Read more…on registered international nursing visa….
FAQs
1. Can international nurses bring their families with them to the U.S.?
Yes, under the EB-3 visa, spouses and children under 21 can also receive Green Cards.
2. Do I need to pass the NCLEX-RN before applying for sponsorship?
Yes, passing the NCLEX-RN is a standard requirement for international nurses.
3. How long does the visa sponsorship process take?
On average, 12–18 months depending on processing times and individual circumstances.
4. Which U.S. states hire the most international nurses?
Texas, California, New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania are among the top states.
5. Do international nurses need work experience before applying?
Most hospitals prefer at least 2 years of clinical experience before sponsorship.