A growing demand for nurses is evident in the United States due to the aging of our population, increased healthcare requirements, and shortages of qualified professionals. Obtaining an H-1B sponsorship can be a good option for foreign nurses who want to work in America. H-1B is a visa for non-immigrants that allows U.S. companies to hire foreign nurses in specialties. This guide provides an overview of nursing jobs that will be sponsored by H-1B visas in 2025. It covers eligibility requirements, the application process, leading employers and much more.
Nursing in America: Why there is a High Demand for Nurses
A critical nursing shortage is affecting the U.S. health care system due to:
- Ageing population: As baby boomers reach retirement age, the need for health care services increases.
- Retirement of Experienced Nurses : Many nurses who have experience are retiring and creating job vacancies.
- Expanding Healthcare Services The Healthcare Industry is Growing, With an Increasing Need for Specialized Care in Hospitals, Clinics and Nursing Homes.
- Lack of domestic nurses The demand for nurses in the United States is not being met by new graduates. Foreign nurses are therefore a vital addition to this workforce.
The Nursing Sponsorship H-1B Visa: Eligibility requirements
For foreign nurses to be eligible for an H-1B sponsorship, they must also meet certain requirements.
- Education Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), or higher, is typically required.
- Some nursing positions may require advanced degrees or additional certifications.
- Certification and Licensing
- You must pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses.
- Get a nursing license specific to your state.
- Some states require certifications that are not required by others.
- English Proficiency:
- If required by your state board, you must pass the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
- It is possible that the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools ( CGFNS ) certification will also be needed.
- A Job Offer From a U.S.-Based Employer
- Securing a job from an employer who is willing to sponsor your H-1B Visa.
- Employers must show that the job requires special knowledge to justify an H-1B Visa.
What is the H-1B visa sponsorship process for nursing jobs?
1. Search for Employers and apply
Foreign nurses are sponsored by many healthcare organizations, hospitals and staffing agencies. Search platforms like:
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Monster
- USAJobs
Can help you find H-1B sponsorship for foreign nurses.
2. Get a job offer
After identifying an employer, you will need to apply and go through the entire recruitment process including interviewing and evaluating your credentials.
3. The Employer files an H-1B petition
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USCIS) must receive an H-1B petition from your employer. Citizenship and Immigration Services, including:
- Approval of the Department of Labor for the Labor Condition Application.
- Non-immigrant worker petition form I-129
- Fees and documents required.
4. You must wait for the H-1B lottery and approval
There is a limit of 85 000 visas per year for the H-1B program (65,000 for applicants with an American master’s). In the event that this cap is reached, all applicants will be required to go through a random lottery.
5. Relocation and Attending Visa Interview
After the visa has been approved, you will need to schedule an appointment at the U.S. Embassy, get the visa stamped, and then make plans for your relocation.
Employers that offer H-1B visa sponsorship for nurses in the U.S. Top U.S. Employers that Sponsor H-1B Visas for Nurses
There are many hospitals, healthcare organizations, and staffing companies that actively sponsor foreign nurses as part of the H-1B Visa program.
1. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN)
- Nurses with specialized training in surgical, critical care and research departments are highly sought after.
2. Cleveland Clinic
- The best employers for nurses from abroad in special fields.
3. Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD)
- Nurses in advanced roles can apply for visa sponsorship.
4. NewYork Presbyterian Hospital
- Foreign nurses are hired in several specialties.
5. HCA Health Multiple Locations
- The hospital is actively seeking international nurses.
6. AdventHealth Multiple Locations
- Sponsorship is available for nurses who are qualified in different fields.
7. International Staffing Agencies
- Avant Healthcare Professionals
- O’Grady Peyton International
- ADEX Healthcare Staffing
These agencies help foreign nurses find jobs and handle visa applications.
What to expect in terms of salary for foreign nurses working in the U.S.
In the United States, nurses earn competitive salaries that vary depending on their experience, specialty, and location. Registered nurses’ salaries include the following:
- Entry Level RN: $65,000 – $75,000.
- Middle-Level RN : $75,000. – $90,00000 annually
- RN with experience: 90,000 to 120 000 dollars per annum
- Specialized Nurses (ICU, OR, ER, etc. Specialized Nurses (ICU, OR, ER, etc.): $100,000+ per annum
California, New York and Massachusetts are usually the states with highest wages.
Other Visa options for foreign nurses
There are other options for foreign nurses besides the H-1B Visa.
- EB-3 visa (Green Card sponsorship): for skilled workers who seek permanent residence.
- TN visa (for Canadian and Mexican nurses) Allows Canadians and Mexicans to work as Nurses in the U.S.
- The H-1C visa (for nurses in areas of health professional shortage) is rare. However, certain hospitals may qualify.
The conclusion of the article is:
Foreign healthcare professionals can pursue a rewarding career in nursing jobs with H-1B sponsorship. The process is not without its challenges, including meeting eligibility criteria and finding a sponsoring company. However, it’s worth the effort for the professional and financial growth that can be achieved. Foreign nurses who research potential employers and obtain the required certifications can secure employment within the U.S. Healthcare system by 2025.
Other Resources
- U.S. Department of Labor (www.dol.gov)
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: www.uscis.gov
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing: http://www.ncsbn.org
- Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools: http://www.cgfns.org
Foreign nurses who actively pursue H-1B visas can make the next move towards a fulfilling career in U.S. Healthcare.