Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in USA: Complete 2026 Guide for International Nurses
The United States is facing one of the most severe nursing shortages in its history. As hospitals expand, populations age, and healthcare demands rise, American employers are increasingly turning to international nurses to fill critical gaps. This growing demand has made nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in USA a realistic and achievable goal for qualified foreign nurses.
If you are a registered nurse dreaming of working in the United States—earning a high salary, gaining global experience, and securing long-term career stability—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know in 2026.
This article covers visa options, salary expectations, eligibility requirements, application steps, trusted employers, and practical tips to increase your chances of success.
Why the USA Is Hiring Foreign Nurses
The U.S. healthcare system depends heavily on nurses, yet domestic supply cannot meet demand. According to healthcare workforce projections, nurse shortages are expected to continue well beyond 2030.
Key reasons behind this shortage:
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Aging population requiring long-term medical care
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Retirement of experienced nurses
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Increased demand for specialized care
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Expansion of hospitals and nursing facilities
Because of this imbalance, many employers now offer visa sponsorship nursing jobs to qualified international nurses.
What Does Visa Sponsorship Mean for Nurses?
Visa sponsorship means a U.S. employer is willing to legally support a foreign nurse’s employment in the United States. This typically includes:
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Filing immigration petitions
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Meeting U.S. Department of Labor requirements
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Offering a valid employment contract
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Supporting permanent or temporary work visas
Not every healthcare job offers sponsorship, but registered nurses (RNs) are among the most commonly sponsored professionals.
Types of US Visas for Nurses (Very Important)
🟢 EB-3 Immigrant Visa (Best Option)
The EB-3 visa is the most reliable pathway for nurses.
Why EB-3 is popular:
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Leads to U.S. Green Card
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No lottery system
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Nurses are listed as “Schedule A” shortage occupation
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High approval rate
👉 Most registered nurse visa sponsorship USA cases use EB-3.
Learn more (authority source):
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EB-3_visa
🟡 H-1B Visa (Limited Use)
Only certain advanced nursing roles qualify:
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Nurse Practitioners
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Clinical Nurse Specialists
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Nurse Anesthetists
Regular bedside RN jobs usually do not qualify.
🟡 TN Visa (Canada & Mexico Only)
Available under USMCA agreement.
Nursing Jobs in USA That Offer Visa Sponsorship
The following roles have the highest sponsorship chances:
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Registered Nurse (RN)
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ICU Nurse
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Emergency Room Nurse
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Medical-Surgical Nurse
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Geriatric Nurse
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Long-Term Care Nurse
Specialized skills = better sponsorship chances.
Average Salary for Nurses in the USA (2026)
Nurses in the USA earn some of the highest salaries globally.
💰 Average RN Salary
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Annual: $75,000 – $115,000
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Hourly: $36 – $55
Salary Depends On:
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State
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Experience
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Specialty
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Facility type
📊 RN Salary by State (Approx.)
| State | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $120,000 |
| New York | $105,000 |
| Texas | $85,000 |
| Florida | $80,000 |
| Illinois | $90,000 |
(Source reference:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm)
Best US States for Sponsored Nurses
Some states are more international-nurse friendly:
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California – Highest pay, high demand
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Texas – Large hospital networks
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New York – Consistent international hiring
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Florida – Elder-care demand
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Illinois – Strong healthcare infrastructure
Requirements to Work as a Nurse in the USA
Education
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Nursing diploma or BSN preferred
Licensing
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Pass NCLEX-RN
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Obtain State Nursing License
Learn more:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NCLEX
English Proficiency
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IELTS or TOEFL (some exemptions apply)
Credential Evaluation
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CGFNS certification
Authority source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commission_on_Graduates_of_Foreign_Nursing_Schools
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in USA
Step 1: Pass NCLEX-RN
Mandatory for U.S. nursing practice.
Step 2: Credential Verification
CGFNS verifies education and license.
Step 3: Apply to Sponsoring Employers
Look for keywords like:
“Visa sponsorship available”
Step 4: Employer Files EB-3 Petition
Includes labor certification.
Step 5: Visa Approval & Relocation
Begin work legally in the USA.
Trusted Employers That Sponsor Nurses
Examples include:
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Major hospital systems
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Long-term care facilities
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Healthcare staffing agencies
Always verify employers to avoid scams⚠️
Benefits of Working as a Sponsored Nurse in USA
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High income potential
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Permanent residency pathway
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World-class healthcare experience
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Career growth & specialization
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Family sponsorship benefits
Challenges to Consider
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Long processing time
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Licensing complexity
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Cultural adjustment
Despite challenges, the long-term benefits are significant.
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RN Salary Guide
registered nurse salary in the USA -
Top Paying Countries for Nurses
highest paying countries for nurses
External Authority Links (Trust Signal)
Final Verdict
Nursing jobs with visa sponsorship in USA are not rumors—they are real, structured, and achievable. With proper licensing, preparation, and patience, international nurses can build stable, high-income careers in the United States.
If your goal is long-term security, professional growth, and global exposure, this pathway is worth pursuing seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can foreign nurses get visa sponsorship in USA?
Yes. Registered nurses are eligible under the EB-3 visa program.
Which visa is best for nurses?
The EB-3 immigrant visa is the most reliable option.
Is NCLEX mandatory?
Yes. NCLEX-RN is required for U.S. nursing practice.
Do nurses need IELTS?
Most applicants do, unless exempt.
How long does the process take?
Usually 12–24 months depending on visa category.
