The demand for Registered Nurses (RNs) in the United States continues to rise. With nursing shortages across many states, U.S. hospitals are turning to international recruitment. This is where RN visa sponsorship becomes a key pathway for foreign-trained nurses to live and work in America.

If you are a nurse dreaming of working in the U.S., understanding how visa sponsorship works is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down the process, requirements, visa types, benefits, challenges, and steps to apply.

What Is RN Visa Sponsorship?

RN visa sponsorship refers to the process where a U.S. employer—such as a hospital, clinic, or healthcare agency—hires a foreign nurse and petitions for their visa. The employer “sponsors” the nurse by handling immigration paperwork, filing petitions, and often covering related costs.

This system benefits both sides:

• Employers gain skilled nurses to fill workforce shortages.
• Nurses get legal work authorization, higher pay, and often, a pathway to permanent residency.

Types of U.S. Work Visas for Registered Nurses

Different visas are available for international nurses, but some are more common and practical.

EB-3 Visa for Nurses

The EB-3 visa is the most common route. It is an employment-based immigrant visa that grants a green card. Nurses under EB-3 are considered “Schedule A” workers, which means the labor certification process is faster.

Eligibility:

• Nursing degree (Associate or Bachelor’s).
• NCLEX-RN exam passed.
• Valid nursing license in the U.S. state of employment.

H-1B Visa for Specialized Nursing Roles

The H-1B visa is for workers in specialty occupations. Most standard nursing roles don’t qualify, but advanced practice nurses—like nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, or clinical nurse specialists—may be eligible.

The challenge is the lottery system and annual cap. Employers must petition during the application window, and not all petitions are selected.

TN Visa for Canadian and Mexican Nurses

Under NAFTA (now USMCA), Canadian and Mexican nurses can apply for a TN visa. This visa allows quick entry into the U.S. and work authorization without a lottery system.

Applicants must show proof of nursing education, licensure, and a U.S. job offer.

RN Visa Sponsorship Requirements

To qualify for sponsorship, nurses must meet professional and immigration standards:

• Education – A nursing diploma, associate degree, or BSN.
• Licensing – Must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
• English Proficiency – IELTS or TOEFL for nurses trained in non-English-speaking countries.
• U.S. State Licensure – Each state has its own board of nursing requirements.
• Job Offer – A confirmed sponsorship offer from a U.S. employer.

How to Apply for RN Visa Sponsorship in the USA

The United States faces a high demand for registered nurses (RNs), and many hospitals actively recruit qualified nurses from around the world. If you’re a foreign-trained nurse, one of the most reliable ways to work in the U.S. is through visa sponsorship. This process allows employers to petition for your work visa and help you transition smoothly into the U.S. healthcare system.

Below is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to apply for RN visa sponsorship in the USA.

Step 1 – Meet Educational & Licensing Requirements

The first step is ensuring you meet U.S. standards for registered nurses. You must hold a valid nursing degree from your home country, ideally a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent.

Next, your credentials must be verified, typically through the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). After that, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which is the licensing test for all registered nurses in the U.S. Without this step, you cannot qualify for RN sponsorship.

Step 2 – Find a U.S. Employer Offering RN Sponsorship

Not all hospitals and healthcare systems sponsor foreign nurses. That’s why you need to carefully research U.S. employers that provide RN visa sponsorship. Many large hospital networks, long-term care facilities, and staffing agencies actively hire international nurses due to ongoing shortages.

Employers who offer sponsorship will not only file your visa petition but may also provide relocation benefits, such as flight tickets, housing assistance, and orientation programs. Working with a reputable employer increases your chances of approval and a smooth transition.

Step 3 – Employer Submits the Visa Petition

Once you receive a job offer, your U.S. employer will file a visa petition on your behalf. The two most common visa options for registered nurses are:

• EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Green Card): Your employer files Form I-140 with USCIS. This visa is highly preferred because it provides a direct path to U.S. permanent residency.
• H-1B Visa (Temporary Work Visa): Filed during the annual lottery, this visa allows nurses to work temporarily in the U.S., though it is less common than the EB-3 route.

The petition process is employer-driven, meaning you cannot self-sponsor.

Step 4 – Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status

After your petition is approved, the next step depends on your location.

• If you are outside the U.S.: You will complete consular processing by attending an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.

• If you are already in the U.S.: You may qualify for adjustment of status through USCIS, allowing you to change your visa category without leaving the country.

During this step, you’ll also complete a medical exam and background checks before final approval.

Step 5 – Relocate and Begin Your RN Career

Once your visa is approved, it’s time to relocate to the U.S. Most sponsoring employers provide relocation packages, which may cover airfare, temporary housing, and cultural orientation.

After arrival, you’ll complete orientation at your hospital or healthcare facility, then officially begin working as a registered nurse under visa sponsorship. This marks the start of your nursing career in the U.S., with opportunities for growth, specialization, and even permanent residency if you are on the EB-3 visa.

Top U.S. Employers That Sponsor RNs

Some U.S. employers actively recruit international nurses:

• Large hospital systems like AdventHealth, Mayo Clinic, and Cleveland Clinic.
• Healthcare staffing agencies specializing in foreign-trained nurses.
• Long-term care facilities experiencing staffing shortages.

Tip: Always verify employer credibility and avoid agencies that demand unfair fees.

Benefits of RN Visa Sponsorship for Nurses

Being sponsored as an RN in the U.S. opens multiple doors:

• Green card opportunities (via EB-3).
• Higher salaries compared to many countries.
• Career growth in specialized fields.
• Family sponsorship for spouses and children.
• Global healthcare exposure with advanced technologies.

Challenges and Delays in RN Visa Sponsorship

While the rewards are high, the journey is not without hurdles:

• Visa retrogression can cause long wait times, especially for applicants from countries with high demand (e.g., Philippines, India).
• Complex paperwork requires accuracy and persistence. Missing or incorrect documentation can lead to delays or denials.
• Cultural adjustments include adapting to U.S. healthcare practices, patient care standards, and new work environments.

Additionally, changes in U.S. immigration policy can sometimes slow down processing times or alter requirements. Nurses must stay updated on immigration news and work closely with their sponsoring employers or immigration attorneys to navigate these challenges effectively.

RN Visa Sponsorship FAQs

How long does RN visa sponsorship take?

The EB-3 process can take anywhere from 12 months to 3 years, depending on country of origin and visa backlogs.

Do U.S. employers cover visa costs?

Many employers cover filing fees and legal expenses. However, some costs, like exam fees, may be paid by the nurse.

Can my family come with me under RN sponsorship?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can typically immigrate as dependents.

Is EB-3 the best visa option for nurses?

Yes, for most nurses. It provides permanent residency and long-term stability, unlike temporary visas such as H-1B or TN.

Final Thoughts on RN Visa Sponsorship

RN visa sponsorship is a life-changing opportunity for nurses who want to build their careers in the United States. While the process can be complex, proper preparation—passing the NCLEX-RN, meeting English requirements, and securing a reliable employer—makes the journey smoother.

For international nurses, this pathway not only offers career advancement but also the chance to live the American dream with long-term security. If you are considering this move, now is the time to take the first step.