The United States is facing a nursing shortage, and demand for Registered Nurses (RNs) continues to grow. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities are actively recruiting both local and international nurses. For those seeking RN visa sponsorship, knowing which employers hire foreign-trained nurses is essential.

In this guide, we highlight the top U.S. employers hiring nurses in 2025, what makes them attractive, and how to apply. Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced nurse from abroad, these healthcare systems offer excellent opportunities for career growth.

Why U.S. Employers Are Hiring More Nurses

• Nursing shortage: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 200,000 RN job openings each year through 2031.

• Aging population: With millions of Baby Boomers needing more healthcare services, demand is high in geriatric and chronic care.

• International recruitment: Many U.S. employers are sponsoring foreign nurses under the EB-3 visa program.

Top U.S. Employers Hiring Nurses

The United States has one of the highest demands for qualified nurses, and top hospitals and healthcare systems are constantly expanding their teams. These employers not only provide competitive salaries and strong benefits but also offer career development, international recruitment, and RN visa sponsorship opportunities.

Here are 10 of the leading U.S. employers that consistently hire nurses nationwide.

1. Mayo Clinic

Location: Minnesota, Arizona, Florida

Why it’s top:

• Ranked the No. 1 hospital in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report.
• Competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
• Known for supportive work culture and excellent nurse-patient ratios.

Nurse Opportunities: Critical Care • Oncology • Surgical Nursing

2. Cleveland Clinic

Location: Ohio, Florida, Nevada, Abu Dhabi (global presence)

Why it’s top:

• A world leader in cardiology and heart surgery.
• Offers international recruitment programs for nurses.
• Opportunities in advanced specialty nursing and research.

Nurse Opportunities: Cardiac Care • ICU Nursing • Outpatient Services

3. Johns Hopkins Hospital

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Why it’s top:

• One of the most prestigious teaching hospitals in the world.
• Offers nurse residency and fellowship programs.
• Actively recruits and trains international nurses.

Nurse Opportunities: Pediatrics • Neurology • Surgical Nursing

4. AdventHealth

Location: Nationwide (Florida, Texas, Georgia, and more)

Why it’s top:

• One of the largest nonprofit healthcare systems in the U.S.
• Known for RN visa sponsorship and relocation support.
• Provides housing assistance and career advancement.

Nurse Opportunities: Emergency Department • Med-Surg Units • Long-Term Care

5. NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital

Location: New York City

Why it’s top:

• Ranked among the nation’s top hospitals for decades.
• Strong nurse residency programs for new graduates.
• Diversity and inclusion initiatives attract international talent.

Nurse Opportunities: Labor & Delivery • Oncology • Community Health

6. Kaiser Permanente

Location: California, Colorado, Georgia, and more

Why it’s top:

• Largest integrated healthcare system in the U.S.
• Offers continuing education and leadership opportunities.
• Competitive salaries with strong union protections.

Nurse Opportunities: Family Health • Mental Health Nursing • Preventive Care

7. Houston Methodist Hospital

Location: Houston, Texas

Why it’s top:

• Magnet-designated hospital system with global recognition.
• Known for excellence in patient care and research.
• Hires both new graduates and experienced international nurses.

Nurse Opportunities: Surgical Nursing • Cardiac Care • Trauma Units

8. UCLA Health

Location: Los Angeles, California

Why it’s top:

• Consistently ranked among the best hospitals in the U.S.
• Provides cutting-edge technology and innovative care.
• Strong mentorship and career development programs.

Nurse Opportunities: Oncology • Pediatrics • Operating Room Nursing

9. Mount Sinai Health System

Location: New York City

Why it’s top:

• One of the largest healthcare networks in NYC.
• Known for inclusion and international nurse recruitment.
• Offers loan forgiveness and support programs for nurses.

Nurse Opportunities: Psychiatric Nursing • Community Health • Chronic Disease Management

10. HCA Healthcare

Location: Nationwide (Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Virginia, and more)

Why it’s top:

• Operates more than 180 hospitals across the U.S.
• Major employer of international nurses with sponsorship programs.
• Extensive training and career development opportunities.

Nurse Opportunities: ICU Nursing • Neonatal Care • Telehealth Nursing

Employers Offering RN Visa Sponsorship

For international nurses, not all hospitals sponsor visas, but these employers are known for active sponsorship:

• AdventHealth
• Cleveland Clinic
• HCA Healthcare
• Mount Sinai Health System
• Large long-term care facilities and staffing agencies

Tip: Always confirm with recruiters that visa sponsorship is available before applying.

How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in the U.S.

1. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
This is the first major step toward practicing as a registered nurse in the U.S. and is required for licensure in all states.

2. Obtain state licensure
Apply for licensure in the state where you plan to work. Each state board of nursing has its own requirements and processes.

3. Research employers offering sponsorship
Focus on hospitals, healthcare systems, or staffing agencies that provide RN visa sponsorship for international nurses.

4. Apply directly on hospital career websites
Most reputable employers prefer candidates to submit applications through their official portals rather than relying solely on third-party job boards.

5. Prepare a U.S.-style nursing resume
Highlight clinical experience, certifications, and language skills. Tailor your resume to each job description to improve your chances of selection.

6. Be ready for virtual interviews
Employers may conduct video interviews to assess communication skills, cultural fit, and professional readiness. Practice beforehand to build confidence.

Benefits of Working for Top U.S. Nursing Employers

• Competitive salaries and overtime pay.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Career advancement opportunities.
• Relocation and visa sponsorship assistance.
• Exposure to world-class medical technologies.

FAQs: Top U.S. Employers Hiring Nurses

Which U.S. hospitals sponsor international nurses?

Hospitals like AdventHealth, Cleveland Clinic, and HCA Healthcare are well-known for international nurse sponsorship.

What is the average salary for nurses in the U.S.?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average RN salary is around $86,000 per year (as of 2025).

Do all U.S. employers offer RN visa sponsorship?

No. Only select hospitals and agencies provide sponsorship, so confirm during the application process.

Is it better to apply directly or through an agency?

Both work. Direct applications provide more control, while agencies may simplify relocation and visa processing.

Final Thoughts on Top U.S. Employers Hiring Nurses

The U.S. healthcare system offers incredible opportunities for nurses—both local and international. Employers like Mayo Clinic, AdventHealth, and HCA Healthcare not only provide excellent pay and benefits but also offer RN visa sponsorship programs for international talent.

Whether you’re starting your career or seeking growth abroad, targeting these top employers can put you on the right path toward a rewarding future in nursing.