Nursing jobs in the United States can offer international applicants opportunities for career development, competitive salaries and, in some cases, employer-sponsored immigration. However, there is an important detail to understand before applying: there is no general US government programme that automatically gives foreign nurses a $150,000 visa sponsorship grant.
The figure should not be mistaken for a guaranteed cash grant or relocation payment. Some employers may offer recruitment assistance, immigration support, relocation packages or sign-on bonuses, but these benefits depend on the employer and the employment contract.
For internationally educated nurses, the actual process involves meeting US nursing licensing requirements, passing the relevant examinations, satisfying immigration screening requirements and securing an eligible job offer.
This guide explains how to find legitimate nursing jobs in the USA, what qualifications you need, how visa sponsorship works and the steps to take from your home country.
Is There Really a $150,000 Visa Sponsorship Grant for Nurses in the USA?
There is no general $150,000 US government grant automatically awarded to foreign nurses who apply for nursing jobs.
The amount in the headline should not be interpreted as a guaranteed payment. There are, however, legitimate financial benefits that some US healthcare employers offer when recruiting internationally educated nurses.
Depending on the employer and contract, these benefits may include:
Employer-sponsored immigration and legal processing.
Assistance with nursing licence applications.
NCLEX-RN examination preparation.
Flight tickets to the United States.
Temporary accommodation after arrival.
Transportation assistance.
Relocation support.
Sign-on or completion bonuses.
Clinical orientation and professional training.
For example, AdventHealth's international nursing programme advertises employer-paid immigrant visa sponsorship for eligible nurses, first-month housing and transportation when needed, and a one-time $2,000 stipend subject to tax.
Avant Healthcare Professionals also advertises employer-sponsored visa support, immigration assistance, relocation support and a $10,000 completion bonus for eligible nurses who have passed the NCLEX-RN, subject to its programme terms.
These are actual employer benefits, not a $150,000 government grant. Read the employment agreement carefully to understand the conditions attached to any bonus, reimbursement or relocation package.
Types of Nursing Jobs Available in the USA for International Applicants
The United States has nursing opportunities across hospitals, specialist clinics, rehabilitation facilities, long-term care centres and community healthcare organisations.
Internationally educated nurses should focus on positions that match their education, clinical experience and US licensing eligibility.
Registered Nurse (RN)
Registered Nurses provide direct patient care, administer medication, monitor patients, maintain clinical records and coordinate treatment with other healthcare professionals.
Common RN specialisations include:
Medical-surgical nursing.
Intensive care nursing.
Emergency room nursing.
Paediatric nursing.
Operating room nursing.
Oncology nursing.
Cardiac nursing.
Labour and delivery nursing.
Psychiatric nursing.
Geriatric nursing.
Registered Nurse positions are among the most relevant opportunities for internationally educated nurses seeking employer-sponsored immigration.
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse
ICU nurses care for critically ill patients who require continuous monitoring and specialised treatment.
Employers may prefer applicants with recent experience in intensive care, high-dependency units or similar clinical environments.
Emergency Room Nurse
Emergency nurses assess and care for patients with urgent medical conditions, injuries and other emergencies.
Experience in emergency departments, trauma care and acute patient management can strengthen an application.
Medical-Surgical Nurse
Medical-surgical nurses care for patients recovering from surgery or receiving treatment for medical conditions.
This is a common hospital nursing specialisation and can be a relevant pathway for internationally educated nurses with general hospital experience.
Operating Room Nurse
Operating room nurses assist with surgical procedures, prepare operating environments, monitor patients and support surgical teams.
Employers may require previous operating theatre experience and knowledge of surgical safety procedures.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Licensed Practical Nurses provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and other authorised healthcare professionals.
However, an overseas nursing qualification does not automatically qualify someone for an LPN position. Applicants must meet the licensing requirements of the state where they intend to work.
Important: International nurses should distinguish between an overseas nursing qualification and a US nursing licence. Having a nursing degree or registration in your home country does not automatically authorise you to practise in the United States.
Basic Requirements for Nursing Jobs With Visa Sponsorship in the USA
The requirements depend on the employer, nursing position, state licensing board and immigration route.
However, most international Registered Nurse recruitment programmes look for the following:
Educational qualifications
You generally need to have completed an approved nursing education programme that is comparable to the relevant US nursing education requirements.
Your educational records may be reviewed to determine whether your nursing training meets the necessary standards.
Prepare your:
Nursing diploma or degree certificate.
Academic transcripts.
Clinical training records, where requested.
Secondary school certificate.
Professional registration documents.
Current nursing registration
You should have valid professional nursing registration in your country of education or practice.
The relevant US licensing board or credential assessment organisation may request direct verification from your nursing regulatory authority.
Clinical experience
Some employers recruit experienced nurses rather than applicants who have just graduated.
For example, AdventHealth's international nursing programme lists at least one year of recent nursing experience in a tertiary-level acute care hospital with a minimum of 100 beds.
Avant also identifies current bedside experience in an acute-care inpatient specialty as part of its recruitment profile.
Experience in medical-surgical nursing, ICU, emergency care, operating rooms and other hospital specialties may be particularly relevant.
English language proficiency
You must demonstrate that you can communicate effectively with patients, colleagues and other healthcare professionals.
Depending on the state board and immigration screening requirements, you may need an approved English examination.
Common examinations include:
IELTS Academic.
TOEFL iBT.
Occupational English Test (OET).
Pearson PTE Academic.
Other examinations accepted by the relevant assessment organisation.
Do not assume that English being widely spoken in your home country automatically exempts you from testing. For example, Nigeria is not included in TruMerit's listed countries for its standard English-language exemption.
NCLEX-RN examination
International applicants seeking Registered Nurse licensure generally need to pass the NCLEX-RN.
This examination assesses whether candidates have the knowledge and clinical judgement required to practise safely as Registered Nurses in the United States.
VisaScreen certification
Most foreign healthcare professionals seeking occupational visas must complete the required healthcare worker screening process.
For Registered Nurses, this includes an assessment of education, professional licences, English proficiency and nursing examination results.
The exact requirements should be checked with TruMerit, formerly CGFNS International, and the relevant state licensing board.
How the US Nursing Licensing Process Works for Foreign Nurses
One of the most important parts of your application is obtaining permission to practise nursing in your chosen US state.
The United States does not operate one single national nursing licence that automatically authorises every nurse to work in every state. Each state has its own Board of Nursing and licensing requirements.
Follow these steps.
Step 1: Choose the state where you want to work
Before beginning your application, decide which state you would prefer to work in.
Some states have different requirements for internationally educated nurses, including differences in credential evaluation, English testing, Social Security Number requirements and documentation.
You can investigate states such as:
Florida.
Texas.
Georgia.
Ohio.
North Carolina.
New York.
Illinois.
Pennsylvania.
Do not choose a state only because an employer advertises visa sponsorship. First confirm that you can meet its nursing licensing requirements.
Step 2: Contact the State Board of Nursing
Find the official Board of Nursing website for your intended state.
Review its instructions for internationally educated nurses and identify the documents required for your application.
The state board may require:
An application for nursing licensure.
Verification of your overseas nursing registration.
Academic transcripts sent directly by your school.
A credential evaluation.
English-language examination results.
Background checks or fingerprinting.
Evidence of passing the NCLEX-RN.
Requirements differ by state, so follow the official instructions rather than relying on another nurse's experience.
Step 3: Complete your credential evaluation
Your nursing education and professional registration may need to be assessed by an approved credential evaluation organisation.
The assessment checks whether your education and professional qualifications meet the applicable requirements.
CGFNS Certification Program is one recognised route used by many state boards. Its programme includes education and licence verification, the CGFNS Qualifying Exam and English-language proficiency requirements.
However, not every state requires the same CGFNS service. Confirm which evaluation your chosen Board of Nursing accepts before paying for an assessment.
Step 4: Register for the NCLEX-RN
Once the relevant state board confirms that you meet its examination requirements, you can proceed with NCLEX registration.
The general process involves:
Applying to the relevant State Board of Nursing.
Completing the required credential and identity checks.
Registering for the NCLEX-RN.
Receiving an Authorization to Test (ATT) when approved.
Scheduling your examination.
Taking the examination at an authorised testing centre.
The NCLEX-RN is administered through Pearson VUE testing centres. Check the current international testing arrangements and available locations before booking.
Step 5: Obtain your VisaScreen certificate
After completing the required education, licensing, English and examination checks, apply for the VisaScreen credentials assessment.
For Registered Nurses, the screening includes verification of nursing education, professional licences, English proficiency and an accepted nursing examination result.
VisaScreen is an immigration screening requirement for many foreign healthcare professionals. It is separate from your state nursing licence and does not replace the NCLEX-RN.
For details, visit TruMerit's VisaScreen application guidance.
How to Find Nursing Jobs in the USA With Visa Sponsorship
After understanding the licensing requirements, begin searching for employers that recruit internationally educated nurses.
Do not apply randomly to every nursing vacancy. Look for employers or recruitment programmes that explicitly state that they consider international applicants and provide immigration sponsorship.
AdventHealth International Nursing Programme
AdventHealth International Nursing Careers is a useful starting point.
Its international programme advertises nursing opportunities across several US regions, including Florida, Texas, Colorado, Georgia, North Carolina and Kansas.
The published programme requirements include:
At least one year of recent experience in a tertiary-level acute care hospital.
A hospital with at least 100 beds.
A passed NCLEX-RN.
An English-language competency examination.
Willingness to make a three-year contract commitment.
The advertised benefits include employer-paid immigrant visa sponsorship for eligible candidates, first-month housing and transportation when needed, a one-time $2,000 stipend subject to taxes, and a transition programme.
Review the current vacancies and programme conditions before applying.
Avant Healthcare Professionals
Avant Healthcare Professionals recruits internationally educated nurses for US healthcare facilities.
Its programme advertises immigration sponsorship, licensure assistance, NCLEX preparation, flight support, housing assistance and clinical and cultural transition training.
Avant states that applicants can submit an application even if they have not yet passed the NCLEX-RN or a qualifying English examination, although they must complete the required licensing and immigration steps before practising.
Its published programme information also describes a $10,000 completion bonus for eligible NCLEX passers, subject to the applicable programme terms.
Visit Avant's international nurse application page to review its requirements and application process.
Other employers and recruitment organisations
You can also investigate:
Major hospital networks with international recruitment programmes.
Specialist nursing recruitment agencies.
Academic medical centres.
Regional healthcare systems experiencing staffing shortages.
Long-term care organisations that explicitly recruit internationally.
Always check the actual employer's career website. A third-party job advertisement does not guarantee that the employer is currently sponsoring foreign applicants.
How to Apply for Nursing Jobs in the USA: Step-by-Step
Once you identify a suitable employer, follow a structured application process.
Step 1: Prepare your nursing CV
Your CV should clearly show your nursing education, registration, clinical experience and professional skills.
Include:
Full professional name.
Contact details and current country.
Nursing qualification.
Professional registration number, where appropriate.
Hospital and healthcare facility experience.
Clinical department or specialty.
Employment dates.
Patient-care responsibilities.
Relevant professional training.
English-language examination results, if available.
NCLEX-RN status.
References, if requested.
Avoid exaggerating clinical experience or listing qualifications you have not obtained.
Step 2: Create a professional cover letter
Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the position and how your experience matches the employer's needs.
For example, an applicant with four years of medical-surgical nursing experience can highlight their experience with patient assessment, medication administration, post-operative monitoring, infection prevention and multidisciplinary care.
Mention that you are an internationally educated nurse and indicate your current US licensing progress honestly.
Step 3: Submit your application through the official website
Create an account on the employer's career portal and complete the application.
Upload the documents requested. These may include your CV, qualification certificates, professional registration evidence and employment references.
If the employer has an international recruitment programme, select the appropriate application route.
Step 4: Attend the interview
If shortlisted, you may be invited to an online interview with a recruiter or nursing manager.
Prepare to discuss:
Your clinical experience.
The departments where you have worked.
Patient safety and infection control.
Medication administration.
Managing emergencies.
Communication with patients and families.
Teamwork and professional ethics.
Your NCLEX-RN and licensing progress.
Your willingness to relocate.
Some employers may also assess your clinical knowledge and spoken English.
Step 5: Review the employment offer
If selected, request the full written offer and employment agreement.
Check:
Job title and clinical department.
Annual salary or hourly rate.
Guaranteed working hours.
Shift arrangements.
Overtime policies.
Health insurance and other benefits.
Visa sponsorship responsibilities.
Immigration and legal expenses.
Relocation assistance.
Contract duration.
Repayment or penalty clauses.
Conditions attached to bonuses.
Do not sign a long-term contract simply because an employer promises visa sponsorship.
Step 6: Complete the employer's immigration process
Once you accept an eligible offer, the employer or its immigration representative should explain the appropriate visa pathway and required documentation.
For many internationally recruited Registered Nurses, the employment-based EB-3 route is relevant.
The employer should provide information about the petition, priority date, immigration processing and any waiting period.
Step 7: Complete consular processing
If you are applying from outside the United States through an immigrant visa route, you will generally need to complete the required National Visa Center documentation process and attend an interview at the appropriate US embassy or consulate when instructed.
You may also need:
A valid passport.
Civil documents.
Police certificates.
Medical examination results.
VisaScreen documentation.
Employment and immigration petition information.
Other documents requested by the consular officer.
Do not make travel arrangements until your visa has been issued and you understand the conditions of entry.
Understanding the EB-3 Visa Sponsorship Route for Nurses
The EB-3 immigrant visa is one of the most relevant employment-based immigration pathways for foreign Registered Nurses.
It covers skilled workers and professionals who meet the applicable requirements.
Professional nurses are also included under Schedule A, Group I occupations. This is significant because the US Department of Labor has already recognised that certain occupations, including professional nursing, qualify for a streamlined labour-certification process.
For eligible professional nurses, the employer can use the Schedule A process rather than following the ordinary recruitment process for PERM labour certification.
However, Schedule A does not mean that nurses automatically receive a Green Card. The employer must still complete the required filing and immigration steps.
How the EB-3 process generally works
1. Receive a qualifying job offer
You must secure a genuine permanent nursing position from an eligible US employer.
2. Employer prepares the Schedule A documentation
The employer prepares the required labour certification documentation and supporting evidence.
Professional nurses must satisfy the applicable Schedule A qualification criteria. These include an accepted CGFNS certificate, a full and unrestricted nursing licence in the intended state, or passing the NCLEX-RN, as specified in the regulations.
3. Employer files Form I-140
The employer submits the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers to USCIS with the required supporting documents.
4. Wait for immigration processing and visa availability
Your priority date and country of chargeability determine when an immigrant visa number becomes available.
5. Complete the immigrant visa application
Once your case reaches the appropriate stage, you complete the National Visa Center and consular processing requirements.
6. Receive the visa and travel
If approved, you can travel to the United States and complete the required employment and immigration arrangements.
Important: EB-3 waiting times
An approved I-140 petition does not automatically mean that you can travel immediately.
Employment-based immigrant visas are subject to annual limits and priority-date cut-offs.
For example, the November 2026 Visa Bulletin lists an EB-3 final action date of June 15, 2024, for most countries not separately listed in the bulletin. The dates are different for some countries, including India, China, Mexico and the Philippines.
Applicants born in Nigeria generally fall under the all-chargeability-areas category, provided they do not qualify to use another country's chargeability through the applicable rules.
Visa availability changes monthly. Check the latest US Department of State Visa Bulletin before making immigration or relocation decisions.
How Much Do Registered Nurses Earn in the USA?
Nursing salaries vary according to state, employer, specialty, experience, qualifications and working hours.
The following figures are broad illustrative annual salary ranges, not guaranteed offers.
| Nursing position | Illustrative annual salary |
|---|---|
| Medical-Surgical RN | $65,000–$95,000 |
| Emergency Room RN | $70,000–$105,000 |
| ICU Nurse | $75,000–$110,000 |
| Operating Room Nurse | $75,000–$110,000 |
| Paediatric RN | $65,000–$100,000 |
| Oncology RN | $70,000–$105,000 |
| Nurse Manager | $90,000–$130,000+ |
Actual salaries may fall outside these ranges. High-cost locations, specialist roles, overtime and additional responsibilities can increase earnings.
A $150,000 annual income may be possible for some experienced nurses in particular locations or through additional shifts, but it should not be treated as a standard starting salary or a guaranteed visa benefit.
When comparing job offers, consider the cost of living, health insurance, taxes, housing, transport and the number of hours you are expected to work.
Documents to Prepare Before Applying
Having your documents ready can make the recruitment and licensing process easier.
Create digital copies of the following:
| Document | Why it may be required |
|---|---|
| International passport | Identification and immigration processing |
| Nursing degree or diploma | Proof of nursing education |
| Academic transcripts | Education and credential assessment |
| Nursing registration certificate | Evidence of professional registration |
| Current practising licence | Professional status verification |
| Employment reference letters | Proof of clinical experience |
| Updated nursing CV | Employer recruitment |
| English examination results | Language proficiency, where required |
| NCLEX-RN result | Evidence of passing the US nursing examination |
| VisaScreen certificate | Healthcare worker immigration screening |
| Police certificates | Immigration and background checks |
| Birth and marriage certificates | Civil and family immigration documentation, where applicable |
Some documents must be sent directly from your school, employer or nursing regulatory authority to the credential assessment organisation or state board.
Do not alter academic transcripts, registration records or employment letters.
How to Avoid Nursing Visa Sponsorship Scams
Because US nursing recruitment can involve immigration sponsorship and attractive financial benefits, applicants should be careful about fraudulent recruiters.
Watch out for these warning signs:
Promises of guaranteed $150,000 grants. A recruiter who claims that every foreign nurse receives $150,000 from the US government is making a misleading claim.
Requests for large upfront payments. Be cautious if an individual demands money to secure a hospital job, guarantee a visa or reserve a sponsorship position.
Fake hospital employment offers. Verify the vacancy on the hospital's official career website and contact the organisation through independently obtained contact details.
No written employment agreement. A legitimate offer should explain the job, salary, benefits, immigration responsibilities and contract conditions.
Unclear repayment clauses. Some recruitment programmes require nurses to complete a minimum contract period. Understand what happens if you resign early or the employer terminates your employment.
Pressure to submit false documents. Never allow an agent to falsify your nursing experience, academic records, examination results or immigration information.
You should also confirm whether the recruiter is authorised to represent the employer and whether any fees are lawful and properly disclosed.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a $150,000 visa sponsorship grant for nurses in the USA?
There is no general US government programme that automatically awards foreign nurses a $150,000 visa sponsorship grant. Some employers provide visa sponsorship, relocation assistance, accommodation, sign-on bonuses or completion bonuses. These benefits vary by employer and contract.
Can a Nigerian nurse apply for nursing jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship?
Yes. Nigerian-trained nurses can apply for eligible US nursing positions if they meet the relevant education, professional registration, licensing, English-language and immigration requirements. They generally need to satisfy the requirements of the state where they intend to practise and complete the necessary healthcare worker screening.
Do I need to pass the NCLEX-RN before applying for US nursing jobs?
It depends on the employer. Some international recruitment programmes require applicants to have passed the NCLEX-RN before applying, while others accept applications from nurses who have not yet passed and provide examination preparation. You must pass the required examination to obtain US Registered Nurse licensure.
Conclusion
Nursing jobs in the United States can provide internationally educated nurses with opportunities for professional development, competitive earnings and employer-sponsored immigration.
However, there is no automatic $150,000 government visa sponsorship grant for foreign nurses. The genuine opportunities are employer-sponsored nursing positions that may include immigration assistance, licensing support, relocation benefits, accommodation and other incentives.
Start by choosing a state, checking its nursing licensing requirements and preparing your academic and professional documents. Work towards passing the NCLEX-RN and completing VisaScreen where required. Then apply through established international recruitment programmes and healthcare employers.
AdventHealth and Avant Healthcare Professionals are two organisations with published international nursing recruitment programmes worth investigating.
Most importantly, verify every job offer, understand the employment contract and check the latest immigration rules before paying fees or making travel plans.
Which US visa is commonly used for internationally recruited nurses?
The EB-3 employment-based immigrant visa is a common pathway for internationally recruited professional nurses. Eligible professional nurses may use the Schedule A labour-certification process. The employer must still complete the necessary immigration filings, and visa availability depends on priority dates and annual limits.
How much can an international nurse earn in the USA?
Registered Nurse salaries vary by state, specialty, experience and employer. Some positions may pay around $65,000–$95,000 annually, while specialised or higher-paying roles may offer more. An income of $150,000 is possible in certain circumstances but is not guaranteed for newly recruited international nurses.