The United States healthcare system is one of the world’s most renowned and sought-after, attracting top talent from around the globe.
As a foreigner, pursuing a career as a registered nurse in the USA can be a dream come true.
With the country facing a significant shortage of nursing professionals, the demand for skilled and dedicated registered nurses has never been higher.
This article will guide you through securing a registered nurse job in the USA with visa sponsorship, covering the essential requirements, salary expectations, and the application process.
The USA offers a unique opportunity for foreigners to advance their careers, gain invaluable experience, and contribute to the country’s healthcare system.
With the right qualifications and support, you can join the thousands of international nurses already making a difference in the USA.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
To be considered for a registered nurse position in the USA, you will need to possess the following:
- A nursing degree from an accredited institution
- A valid nursing license from your home country
- A minimum of 1-2 years of nursing experience
- Strong English language skills (TOEFL or IELTS certification)
- Essential Life Support (BLS) certification
- Ability to adapt to the USA’s fast-paced healthcare environment
Please note that specific requirements may vary depending on the employer and state.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
The USA offers varying payment structures for registered nurses depending on the region, experience, and employer. Here are the top 5 regions with the highest payment structures:
California
Average salary: $124,000 – $150,000 per year
California offers the highest payment structure for registered nurses, with cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles leading the way.
New York
Average salary: $110,000 – $130,000 per year
New York is a close second, with its high demand for nursing professionals driving up salaries in cities like New York City and Buffalo.
Texas
Average salary: $100,000 – $120,000 per year
Texas offers a thriving healthcare industry, with cities like Houston and Dallas providing competitive salaries for registered nurses.
Florida
Average salary: $90,000 – $110,000 per year
Florida’s large population and high demand for healthcare services make it an attractive destination for registered nurses, with cities like Miami and Tampa offering competitive salaries.
Washington
Average salary: $85,000 – $100,000 per year
Washington State offers a high quality of life and competitive salaries for registered nurses, particularly in cities like Seattle and Spokane.
Salary Expectations for Immigrants
ExperienceAverage Salary
1-2 years $65,000 – $80,000
2-5 years $80,000 – $100,000
5-10 years $100,000 – $120,000
10+ years $120,000 – $150,000
These figures are estimates and may vary depending on the employer, region, and specific job requirements.
Companies Hiring Registered Nurses Jobs in the USA
Here are some top healthcare companies in the USA that hire registered nurses and offer visa sponsorship:
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente is a renowned healthcare organization with locations across the USA. They offer a range of nursing positions and provide visa sponsorship for qualified candidates.
Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is a world-leading healthcare organization with locations in Arizona, Florida, and Minnesota. They hire registered nurses in various specialties and offer visa sponsorship.
Johns Hopkins Medicine
Johns Hopkins Medicine is a prestigious healthcare organization with locations in Maryland and Washington, D.C. They hire registered nurses in various specialties and offer visa sponsorship.
Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland Clinic is a top-ranked healthcare organization with locations in Ohio, Florida, and Nevada. They hire registered nurses in various specialties and offer visa sponsorship.
NewYork-Presbyterian
NewYork-Presbyterian is a leading healthcare organization in New York City and surrounding areas. They hire registered nurses in various specialties and offer visa sponsorship.
Visa Types and Options for Registered Nurses
The most common visa types for registered nurses in the USA are:
H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows registered nurses to work in the USA for up to three years, with possible extensions.
Green Card
A green card is a permanent resident visa that allows registered nurses to live and work in the USA permanently.
T.N. Visa
The TN visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows registered nurses from Canada and Mexico to work in the USA under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Where to Find Registered Nurse Jobs in the USA
You can find registered nurse job openings in the USA through:
Company websites
Check the career websites of top healthcare companies in the USA.
Job search platforms
Use online job search platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn.
Recruitment agencies
Consider working with recruitment agencies specializing in healthcare jobs in the USA.
How to Apply for Registered Nurses Jobs as an Immigrant in USA
To apply for registered nurse jobs in the USA as an immigrant, follow these steps:
Meet the eligibility criteria
Ensure you meet the earlier requirements, including education, experience, and language proficiency.
Choose the correct visa.
Select the appropriate visa type (H-1B, Green Card, or T.N.) based on your circumstances and goals.
Update your resume and online profiles.
Tailor your resume and online profiles (e.g., LinkedIn) to meet U.S. healthcare industry standards.
Network and build connections
Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with U.S. healthcare professionals to build relationships and learn about job opportunities.
Apply for job openings.
Submit applications to job openings that match your skills and experience, and be prepared for interviews.
Secure a job offer and visa sponsorship.
Once you receive a job offer, ensure the employer provides visa sponsorship and support throughout the application process.
Apply for the visa
Submit your visa application, including all required documents and fees, and wait for processing and approval.
Pursuing a registered nurse career in the USA as an immigrant requires dedication and perseverance.
You can achieve your goals and contribute to the U.S. healthcare system by knowing the requirements, salary expectations, and application process.