Nursing Assistant Jobs in the USA
Nurses reap multiple benefits from their profession, which spans the globe, and the United States provides significant nursing employment opportunities to practitioners from all over the world.
The healthcare labor market requires additional nursing professionals to provide an ongoing supply of competent nursing personnel capable of meeting the healthcare demands associated with the aging of the US population, as well as developments in medical care and specialized care delivery.
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A huge percentage of international nurses want to relocate to the United States as a top priority for professional development. To work in healthcare in the United States, foreign nurses must have available visa sponsorship from their employers.
The article explores nursing assistant jobs in the USA for foreigners with visa sponsorship, facts regarding visa kinds created for foreign-educated nurses, and mandatory abilities and credentials.
Nursing Assistant Jobs in the USA for foreigners with Visa Sponsorship
According to BLS, Nursing assistant with visa sponsorship in US earns up to $50,760 per year in 2025, according to the BLS. Entry-level employment begins at approximately $28,000, but experienced CNAs or those in specialty roles, such as rehabilitation or memory care, can make up to $50,000 annually. Furthermore, many firms give visa sponsorship, particularly for the EB-3 Visa, which leads to permanent residency, making these positions appealing to international candidates.
Nursing assistant jobs offer opportunities for advancement in addition to financial compensation. CNAs can pursue further study to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs), leveraging their expertise to develop in the healthcare industry. The position also provides flexible scheduling, including part-time and full-time choices, as well as the opportunity to have a significant effect on the lives of patients.
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Types of Nursing Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Foreign nurses can apply for visa sponsorship for a variety of nursing occupations in the United States. These roles are available across the country in clinics, hospitals, assisted living institutions, and other healthcare settings.
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Registered Nurses (RNs): They are one of the most sought-after professional groups in healthcare facilities across the United States. They work at a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Registered nurses may obtain visas under three different categories: H-1B, EB-3, and TN.
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Nurse Practitioners (NP): Nurse practitioners have specific clinical education that enables them to diagnose ailments, provide primary care treatments, and write prescriptions. A lack of primary care physicians promotes significant institutional demand for NPs, who are especially valued when working in rural settings.
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Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs): LPNs and LVNs provide nursing care after getting instructions from registered nurses as part of their responsibilities. Nursing facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare environments provide suitable work opportunities for them.
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Specialized Nurses: Specialized nurse professions in oncology, pediatrics, intensive care, and anesthesia remain in great demand. Foreign nurses with sufficient qualifications, combined with adequate experience, can get vacant opportunities in various nursing roles.
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Visa Sponsorship for Nurses in the USA
A healthcare center, as an employer, plays a significant role in acquiring US work and residency permission through visa sponsorship for international personnel. To perform legally in America, foreign nurses must first get visa authorization. The most prevalent visa choices for foreign nurses are H-1B, EB-3, and TN visas.
1. H-1B visa for nurses.
Employers in the United States can get H-1B nonimmigrant visas to temporarily hire skilled foreign workers in specific occupations. Employers mostly employ the H-1B visa program to bring skilled nurses with professional nursing degrees or in-demand skills. To get the H-1B visa, nurses must complete certain qualifications, which include two primary points:
To obtain an H-1B visa, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, a nursing diploma, or a related field. The necessary sponsorship comes from American healthcare institutions, such as hospitals or facilities.
The process of practicing nursing in the United States begins with passing the NCLEX-RN and obtaining a nursing license.
Foreign nurses who acquire an H-1B visa can work in the United States for three years and may request another three-year extension. The annual visa limitation for new admissions is 85,000 jobs, and there is little rivalry to obtain these visas, limiting access to 85,000 new slots each year.
2. The EB-3 visa for nurses
The EB-3 visa acts as an immigrant categorization because it leads to permanent US residency, often known as the Green Card. It provides an appropriate pathway for nurses who wish to become permanent residents and work in the United States permanently. To apply for an EB-3 visa, candidates must meet many standards.
Newly immigrated nurses should have nursing credentials as well as similar professional competencies.
The nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN exam in addition to meeting the state professional licensure criteria for her job.
To work permanently full-time as a US employer, one must first secure employment with a hospital or healthcare facility.
A nurse must complete the labor certification process to show that there are no suitable American candidates for the position.
An EB-3 visa is an excellent option for persons who want to become permanent residents of America. After being authorized through this scheme, the nurse was granted permanent US work authorization, which may lead to citizenship.
3. TN Visa for Nurses (Canadian and Mexican nationals)
The TN visa allows Mexican and Canadian nationals to work under the principles of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Nurses from Canada and Mexico can easily obtain a TN visa, which is valid for three years. Their requirements include the following:
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As a registered nurse.
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A US healthcare establishment must offer an employment contract to anyone seeking admission under this visa category.
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A nurse must have the necessary state-based nursing qualifications and active licensure to practice in their state.
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International nurses who are Canadian or Mexican citizens benefit from the TN visa since it makes it easier to obtain work in the US.
Requirements for Working in the US Healthcare Sector
Foreign nurses seeking to practice in the United States must meet a variety of academic and work experience requirements. The requirements for working in the US healthcare sector vary depending on both nursing professions and visa type. Prerequisites for international nurses include:
1. Educational requirements.
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Bachelor’s Degree of Nursing (BSN): Most nursing jobs in the United States, including those for registered nurses, require a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) as a minimum academic qualification. A nursing professional with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) can maintain eligibility for certain professions. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) does, however, provide improved employment and advancement opportunities.
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Nursing Program Accreditation: Nurses have the option of attending educational institutions accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
2. License.
To achieve a nursing license in their practicing state, foreign nurses must first pass the NCLEX-RN National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. They must also follow the individual licensing standards set by nursing boards around the country.
3. English proficiency
Nursing in the United States demands English proficiency as well as the ability to interact effectively with patients and healthcare providers. International nurses applying to work in the United States must demonstrate their English competence by passing either the IELTS or the OET.
Steps to Secure a Nursing Assistant Job with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Obtain a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certification
Foreigners who want to work as nursing assistants in the United States must first receive a CNA certification that is recognized by the state where they plan to work. Each state has its criteria, but the majority demand completion of a state-approved CNA training program, which typically involves 75-120 hours of classroom teaching and clinical experience. These programs teach important skills like patient care, vital sign monitoring, infection control, and aid with everyday routines like bathing and dressing.
Foreign healthcare workers who have past experience as nursing aides or caregivers in their native countries may be required to finish a CNA program in the United States in order to meet state criteria. Some organizations, such as Trinity Health Senior Communities, provide paid CNA training programs with sponsorship, allowing candidates to earn while learning. These programs frequently pay the cost of certification exams, which vary from $100 to $200 depending on the state.
Enrolling in a CNA program normally requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic English skills, and a clean criminal background check. Some states may accept equivalent foreign qualifications; however, you must confirm this with the state’s nursing board or a credential evaluation agency such as CGFNS International. Preparing for the CNA exam entails studying medical terminology, patient care standards, and state-specific legislation, with institutions such as CNA Plus Academy and local community colleges providing affordable preparation courses.
Step 2: Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
English proficiency is required for nursing assistants to properly communicate with patients, families, and healthcare teams. Most US states require foreign candidates to take an English proficiency test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System. A TOEFL score of 80-90 on the internet-based test (iBT) is usually necessary, whereas IELTS requires an overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 7 in speaking. Some states also recognize the Occupational English Test (OET), which is geared toward healthcare professionals and requires a grade of C+ in reading, writing, and listening, as well as a grade of B in speaking.
Nurses educated in English-speaking nations such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada (except Quebec) may be excused from these assessments. Preparation courses, offered online through platforms such as Kaplan or in person at language schools, can help you boost your grades. Demonstrating English proficiency not only meets certification requirements but also increases your employability, as effective communication is essential in patient care positions.
Step 3: Get a job offer with visa sponsorship.
Obtaining a job offer from a US firm ready to sponsor a work visa is an important step for foreign nursing assistants. Employers such as Salinas Valley Health, The Palace Group, and MedPro actively seek overseas CNAs and offer visa sponsorship, generally through the EB-3 Visa program. Staffing organizations like O’Grady Peyton International, Conexus MedStaff, and PassportUSA specialize in connecting foreign healthcare workers with American employers, assisting with job placement, visa processing, and relocation.
Indeed, LinkedIn and Healthcare Jobsite allow you to filter for positions that offer visa sponsorship. Keywords such as “CNA visa sponsorship” or “nursing assistant jobs for foreigners” will help you find relevant opportunities.
When applying, make sure your résumé highlights your CNA qualification, healthcare experience, and English fluency. Include a cover letter that expresses your interest in the position and your need for visa sponsorship, as seen in sample letters from Salinas Valley Health.
Networking via LinkedIn or virtual healthcare job fairs can also help you connect with employers. Due to acute personnel shortages, several healthcare facilities, particularly those in California, Texas, and Florida, provide sponsorship. Prepare to present paperwork such as health examination findings, tuberculosis tests, immunization records, and a criminal background check, which are frequently required for visa applications.
Salary Range
National Average:
- Annual: $38,130 (about $18.33 per hour)
- $18.19 per hour or $37,838 per year
- Hourly wages typically range between $12 and $24
- Assistant nurse sponsorship positions range from $78k-$160k
Step 4: Apply for a US Work Visa.
The EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Third Preference) is the most prevalent visa for nursing aides. It provides permanent residency and permits candidates to work in the United States permanently.
This visa requires an employment offer, a labor certification from the United States Department of Labor, and proof of qualifications, such as a CNA certificate. Processing timeframes can range from one to three years, depending on the applicant’s place of origin, with longer waits in high-demand nations such as India and the Philippines.
Application Process
Apply directly through job platforms
- Contact recruitment agencies specializing in healthcare visa sponsorship( such as; healthstaff indeed.com)
- Contact employers directly if you need alternative application methods
Conclusion
In conclusion, a nursing assistant career in the USA offers a good path for permanent residency and an explosive career in the healthcare of the nation. Acquiring a CBA certificate, showing your English language proficiency, securing a job, and applying for the visa type lead to success and, as such, attract top firms such as Salinas Valley Health and The Palace Group, as well as employment agencies such as MedPro International and PassportUSA.
This article gave detailed information about a nursing assistant job in usa with visa sponsorship, and with determination and the right approach, you can establish a successful career in the US.