The United States remains one of the world’s most attractive destinations for healthcare professionals, especially registered nurses (RNs) seeking competitive salaries, advanced medical environments, and opportunities for career development. As the healthcare industry continues to expand, the need for highly trained nurses increases every year. This shortage has created significant openings for international nurses, leading many U.S. employers to offer visa sponsorship programs.

If you’ve been considering relocating to the U.S. as a nurse, 2025 presents strong opportunities. This comprehensive and detailed guide covers everything you need to know about nursing jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship—including requirements, salaries, approved visa types, top hospitals that sponsor foreign nurses, and step-by-step instructions for applying.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Nursing Jobs in the U.S.
2. Why the U.S. Needs International Nurses in 2025
3. Types of Nursing Jobs Available for Foreign Applicants
4. Salary Expectations for Nurses in the USA (2025)
5. Benefits of Working as a Nurse in the United States
6. Visa Sponsorship Options for Nurses
7. Eligibility Requirements for International Nurses
8. Licensing Requirements (NCLEX, IELTS, CGFNS, State Boards)
9. How to Apply for U.S. Nursing Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
10. Top Hospitals and Agencies That Sponsor Foreign Nurses
11. Best Job Websites for Nursing Jobs in the USA
12. How to Write a Strong Nursing Resume for U.S. Jobs
13. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Sponsorship
14. Common Challenges Foreign Nurses Face & How to Overcome Them
15. Frequently Asked Questions
16. Final Thoughts

1. Introduction to Nursing Jobs in the U.S.

Nursing is one of the most in-demand professions in the United States. Hospitals, nursing homes, and healthcare agencies are continually searching for qualified nurses to fill shortages caused by an aging population, increased healthcare needs, and retirement of local professionals. For international nurses, this demand creates meaningful opportunities to work legally in the United States under visa sponsorship programs.

The USA offers a competitive work environment, advanced medical technology, and opportunities for continuous learning and specialization. Many hospitals, healthcare networks, and recruitment agencies actively sponsor nurses who meet U.S. standards and licensing requirements.

2. Why the U.S. Needs International Nurses in 2025

The nursing shortage in the United States has been ongoing for several years, but the demand is projected to grow even more significantly in 2025 due to:

1. An Aging Population

Millions of Americans are entering retirement age, increasing the need for long-term care, critical care, and home health services.

2. Shortage of Domestic Nurses

Many states face severe shortages due to:

• Retirements
• Career transitions
• Burnout
• Low enrollment in local nursing programs

3. Increasing Healthcare Needs

Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer continue to rise, requiring a larger nursing workforce.

4. Expansion of Healthcare Facilities

The U.S. continues to build new hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and senior homes.

5. Government & Employer Support for Skilled Foreign Workers

U.S. immigration policies allow employers to hire foreign healthcare workers when qualified local workers cannot fill the roles.

Because of these factors, foreign nurses have real opportunities to secure stable employment with visa sponsorship in 2025.

3. Types of Nursing Jobs Available for Foreign Applicants

International nurses can apply for a wide range of nursing roles in the U.S., including:

Registered Nurse (RN)

The most common role for foreign workers, available in various specialties such as:

• Medical-surgical nursing
• Emergency care
• Pediatrics
• Oncology
• Intensive care units (ICU)
• Labor and delivery
• Mental health nursing

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

Some facilities hire LPNs/LVNs, but most foreign nurses pursue RN roles for easier sponsorship.

Long-Term Care / Geriatric Nursing

High demand exists in:

• Nursing homes
• Assisted living facilities
• Home healthcare agencies

Community Health Nurses

Work in health centers, public agencies, and outreach programs.

Perioperative & Surgical Nurses

High-paying roles for nurses with specialized training.

Specialty Nursing Roles

Depending on experience:

• Dialysis nursing
• Cardiac care
• Trauma nursing
• Neonatal intensive care (NICU)
• Rehabilitation nursing

These roles vary depending on location, employer, and state licensing requirements.

4. Salary Expectations for Nurses in the USA (2025)

The salary for registered nurses in the United States depends on the state, experience, and specialty. Below is the 2025 estimated salary range:

Nursing Level	Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
Entry-Level RN	$55,000 – $75,000	$28 – $38
Mid-Level RN	$75,000 – $95,000	$38 – $46
Experienced RN	$95,000 – $125,000+	$46 – $60+
Specialized Nurse	$110,000 – $160,000+	$55 – $80+

States with the highest pay include:

• California
• New York
• Massachusetts
• Washington
• New Jersey
• Maryland

Benefits usually include:

• Health insurance
• Retirement plans
• Paid holidays
• Continuing education support
• Relocation assistance
• Overtime pay

These salary levels make the U.S. one of the top-paying nursing destinations in the world.

5. Benefits of Working as a Nurse in the United States

1. High Salaries and Financial Stability

Nurses in the U.S. are among the highest-paid globally.

2. Career Growth Opportunities

You can advance into roles such as:

• Nurse practitioner (NP)
• Nurse educator
• Nursing supervisor
• Clinical specialist

3. Modern Healthcare Technology

Nurses work with advanced equipment and digital health systems.

4. Visa Sponsorship and Long-Term Residency

Many hospitals sponsor foreign nurses for work visas, which can lead to:

• Permanent residency (Green Card)
• Career advancement
• Long-term family settlement

5. Diverse Work Environment

U.S. hospitals employ multicultural teams, making it easier for immigrants to adapt.

6. Visa Sponsorship Options for Nurses in the USA

There are several legal pathways for international nurses to work in the U.S.

1. EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Green Card)

The most popular route for nurses.
Benefits include:

• Permanent residency (Green Card)
• Ability to bring spouse and unmarried children under 21
• Long-term job security

2. H-1B Visa (For Nurses in Specialized Roles)

Available for nurses in advanced specialties such as:

• Nurse practitioner
• Clinical nurse specialist
• Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)

3. TN Visa (For Canadian & Mexican Nurses Only)

Under the USMCA agreement.
Allows easy movement for registered nurses who meet licensing conditions.

4. J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor Program)

Used in some training or internship programs.

5. H-1C Visa (Discontinued but replaced in some states by employer-supported programs)

The EB-3 visa remains the most widely used immigration route for foreign nurses in 2025.

7. Eligibility Requirements for International Nurses

To qualify for U.S. nursing jobs with sponsorship, you need:

A Nursing Degree (Diploma, BSN, or Equivalent)

Valid Nursing License (Home Country or International)

English Language Proficiency

Most employers require IELTS Academic or TOEFL.

Clean Criminal Background

Medical Fitness

No Work Restrictions

Additional certifications may be required depending on the employer and state.

8. Licensing Requirements (NCLEX, CGFNS, State Boards)

Before working as a registered nurse in the U.S., you must complete certain licensing steps.

1. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

This is the standardized exam that qualifies you as a U.S. registered nurse.

Exam topics include:

• Health promotion
• Physiological integrity
• Safety & infection control
• Psychosocial integrity

2. Credential Evaluation (CGFNS)

Most states require your nursing credentials to be evaluated to ensure equivalence to U.S. standards.

3. IELTS or TOEFL

Some states require English proficiency scores for foreign nurses.

4. State Nursing Board Approval

Each U.S. state has its own nursing board, and requirements can vary.

9. How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in the USA With Visa Sponsorship

Here is a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Get Your Credentials Evaluated

Submit your nursing credentials to CGFNS.

Step 2: Apply for NCLEX Authorization

Your state board will review your credentials and grant permission.

Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

This is the main requirement for getting a nursing license.

Step 4: Apply for Nursing Jobs

Search and apply through verified job websites or agencies.

Step 5: Interview With Employers

Most interviews are done online via Zoom or Teams.

Step 6: Receive Employment Offer

Your employer submits immigration paperwork for sponsorship.

Step 7: Visa Processing

This includes:

• Document submission
• Consular interviews
• Medical checks

Step 8: Travel to the USA and Begin Working

Once your visa is approved, you can relocate and start your new job.

10. Top Hospitals and Agencies That Sponsor Foreign Nurses

Here are some reputable organizations known for sponsoring international nurses:

Top U.S. Hospitals

• Cleveland Clinic
• Mayo Clinic
• Johns Hopkins Hospital
• Baylor Scott & White Health
• AdventHealth
• Kaiser Permanente
• NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
• Houston Methodist Hospital
• Stanford Health Care

Recruitment Agencies

• O’Grady Peyton International
• Avant Healthcare Professionals
• ADEX Medical Staffing
• Conexus MedStaff
• MedPro International
• Westways Staffing Services

These agencies help nurses with:

• NCLEX processing
• Visa sponsorship
• Job placement
• Relocation support

11. Best Job Websites for Nursing Jobs in the USA

You can find visa-sponsorship nursing jobs through:

• Indeed.com
• LinkedIn Jobs
• Glassdoor
• SimplyHired
• USAJobs.gov (Federal healthcare roles)
• ZipRecruiter
• Hospital-specific job portals

12. How to Write a Strong Nursing Resume for U.S. Employers

A U.S.-style nursing resume should include:

1. Professional Summary

Short introduction highlighting skills, years of experience, specialties.

2. Work Experience

Use bullet points to list responsibilities & achievements.

3. Nursing Education

Include degree, institution, and graduation year.

4. Certifications

• BLS
• ACLS
• PALS
• Critical care training

5. Skills

• Patient care
• Emergency response
• Medication administration
• Clinical documentation
• Infection control

6. Licensing & Exam Information

Include NCLEX status and English proficiency scores.

7. References

Professional referees with contact information.

13. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Sponsorship

1. Pass the NCLEX Early

Employers prefer nurses who already hold NCLEX certification.

2. Improve English Skills

Good communication is essential in the U.S. healthcare system.

3. Gain Experience

Hospitals prefer nurses with 1–3 years of clinical experience.

4. Apply Through Trusted Agencies

Hundreds of international nurses get placed through reputable agencies yearly.

5. Highlight Specializations

Critical care, ICU, pediatrics, and emergency nursing are in high demand.

6. Prepare for Interviews

Demonstrate:

• Clinical knowledge
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving skills
• Professional communication

7. Stay Updated With Visa Policies

Rules change, so keep track of updates from official immigration sources.

14. Common Challenges Foreign Nurses Face & How to Overcome Them

1. Licensing Delays

Solution: Start CGFNS and NCLEX processes early.

2. Cultural Adjustment

Solution: Learn about U.S. healthcare culture, communication, and ethics.

3. Long Visa Processing Times

Solution: Work with reliable agencies to avoid errors.

4. English Communication Barriers

Solution: Practice speaking with patients, family, coworkers, and mentors.

5. High Cost of Relocation

Solution: Look for employers that offer:

• Relocation bonuses
• Free accommodation for initial weeks
• Paid training

15. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can international nurses get Green Card sponsorship?

Yes. Most foreign RNs are sponsored under the EB-3 visa category.

2. Do I need NCLEX to work in the USA?

Yes. It is required for licensure in all states.

3. How long does visa sponsorship take?

Processing time can range from 6 months to 24 months depending on your country and category.

4. Can I bring my family with me?

Yes, EB-3 visa holders can bring spouses and unmarried children under 21.

5. Which U.S. states need nurses the most?

• Texas
• California
• New York
• Florida
• Ohio
• New Jersey
• Illinois

6. Do U.S. hospitals hire new graduate nurses?

Yes, but most prefer candidates with at least one year of experience.

16. Final Thoughts

Nursing jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship offer a powerful opportunity for international nurses seeking long-term career stability, competitive salaries, and a chance to provide high-quality patient care in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems.

With proper licensing, strong preparation, and the right job search strategy, foreign nurses can successfully relocate and build rewarding careers in the United States.

If you’re planning your journey, start early with NCLEX preparation, credential evaluations, and English proficiency exams. Combine this with targeted applications to hospitals and agencies that sponsor foreign nurses, and you will significantly increase your chances of success.