EditorialsAre you a registered nurse dreaming of working in the United States? Discover high-paying nursing jobs in the USA with full visa sponsorship available for international nurses in 2025 and 2026.
With a critical nursing shortage continuing across the U.S., hospitals and healthcare systems are offering lucrative salaries, comprehensive benefits, and visa sponsorship opportunities to attract skilled foreign nurses. If you’re a qualified nurse seeking a stable career path, now is the best time to explore nursing opportunities in the U.S. healthcare system.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about high-paying nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in 2025 and 2026—including top employers, eligible visas, salary expectations, application steps, and more.
Why Work as a Nurse in the USA?
The U.S. healthcare system offers international nurses a world of opportunities:
1. High Demand for Nurses
There is a nationwide shortage of registered nurses, particularly in states like California, Texas, Florida, and New York. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 195,000 new RN openings annually through 2031.
2. Attractive Salaries
Nurses in the U.S. earn between $80,000 to $120,000+ per year, with higher wages in specialized areas like ICU, ER, NICU, and OR nursing.
3. Comprehensive Benefits
Most nursing jobs in the U.S. offer health insurance, retirement plans, relocation assistance, paid time off, and continuing education support.
4. Permanent Residency Options
Many international nurses who start on work visas eventually secure a Green Card and pursue U.S. citizenship.
5. Work-Life Balance
Nurses in the U.S. enjoy structured shifts, overtime pay, and union representation in many hospitals.
What Is Visa Sponsorship for Nurses?
Visa sponsorship means that a U.S.-based healthcare employer (such as a hospital or nursing home) agrees to petition the U.S. government on your behalf for a work visa or Green Card.
Employers typically provide:
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A job offer contract
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Filing of immigration petitions
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Assistance with credentialing and licensing
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Relocation and onboarding support
Best Visa Options for Nurses in 2025/2026
1. EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Green Card)
Most international nurses come to the U.S. through the EB-3 visa under the “skilled worker” category.
Requirements:
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Nursing degree (Associate or Bachelor’s)
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Passed the NCLEX-RN
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Valid VisaScreen Certificate
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Job offer from a U.S. healthcare employer
Benefits:
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Permanent residency (Green Card)
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Spouse and children can also immigrate
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No requirement to return to home country
2. H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupation)
Some advanced practice nurses (e.g., Nurse Practitioners or Nurse Anesthetists) may qualify for the H-1B visa.
Requirements:
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At least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
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Offer of employment in a specialty nursing role
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State licensure
Note: Most general RN roles do not qualify for H-1B due to educational requirements.
3. TN Visa (For Canadian and Mexican Nurses)
Under USMCA (formerly NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nurses may apply for a TN visa with a valid job offer.
Benefits:
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Quick processing
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No annual cap
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Renewable indefinitely
Top Employers Sponsoring Nurses in the USA
The following healthcare providers frequently sponsor international nurses:
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AdventHealth
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Mayo Clinic
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Kaiser Permanente
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Cleveland Clinic
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Johns Hopkins Hospital
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Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
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HCA Healthcare
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NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
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U.S. Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals
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Children’s National Hospital
Additionally, international recruitment agencies like O’Grady Peyton International, PassportUSA, and Avant Healthcare Professionals help nurses secure sponsored roles.
How to Get a Nursing Job in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Get Your Nursing Credentials Evaluated
You must have your academic credentials reviewed by a certified agency (like CGFNS) to ensure they meet U.S. standards.
Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
All nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN to practice legally in the U.S. This exam is offered globally through Pearson VUE centers.
Step 3: Obtain VisaScreen Certificate
Required for immigration processing, this certificate confirms you’ve met English proficiency, education, and licensing standards.
Step 4: Apply for Sponsored Jobs
Search for “RN jobs with visa sponsorship USA” on job boards, recruitment agencies, or hospital career portals.
Step 5: Interview and Accept a Job Offer
Once hired, your employer will initiate the EB-3 petition or other applicable visa application.
Step 6: Complete Immigration Process
Your Green Card or visa will be processed via the U.S. embassy in your home country.
Highest Paying Nursing Specialties in the U.S. (2025)
| Nursing Specialty | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | $195,000 – $220,000 |
| Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $120,000 – $150,000 |
| ICU/CCU Nurse | $95,000 – $120,000 |
| Operating Room Nurse | $100,000 – $115,000 |
| NICU Nurse | $95,000 – $110,000 |
| ER Nurse | $90,000 – $105,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I work in the U.S. as a nurse without NCLEX?
A: No. NCLEX-RN is mandatory for U.S. nursing licensure.
Q: Are international nurses still in demand in 2025?
A: Yes. The demand continues to rise due to retirements and healthcare expansion.
Q: How long does the visa process take?
A: EB-3 processing can take 12–24 months, depending on country of origin and case complexity.
Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: Yes, EB-3 visa holders can bring spouses and unmarried children under 21.
Q: Is experience required to get sponsored?
A: Most employers prefer nurses with 1–2 years of experience, but some accept new graduates.
Challenges and Solutions
1. Visa Backlogs
Applicants from high-demand countries (e.g., Philippines, India) may face longer processing times. Apply early and stay updated via the Visa Bulletin.
2. Credentialing Delays
Start your CGFNS and NCLEX preparation early to avoid bottlenecks.
3. Adjustment to U.S. Work Culture
Hospitals often offer cultural orientation and mentorship programs to help international nurses adjust smoothly.
Final Thoughts
High-paying nursing jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship are within your reach. With the ongoing nurse shortage, U.S. employers are eager to welcome skilled, compassionate, and qualified international nurses.
If you’re ready to begin your journey in 2025 or 2026, now is the time to get certified, pass your exams, and connect with top employers offering full visa sponsorship and permanent residency opportunities.
Don’t wait—your American nursing career starts now!
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