Introduction: EB-3 Visa Process for Nurses – Step-by-Step 2025 Guide
If you are an internationally educated nurse dreaming of building a career in the United States, understanding the EB-3 visa process for nurses 2025 is your first and most important step. The EB-3 visa is one of the most popular and reliable immigration pathways that allows foreign-trained nurses to live and work in the U.S. permanently. With healthcare facilities across America facing a continuous nursing shortage, qualified international nurses are in high demand. This creates an excellent opportunity for those willing to navigate the visa process and take the leap toward a rewarding nursing career in the U.S.
The EB-3 visa falls under the category of employment-based immigrant visas. Unlike temporary work visas, the EB-3 provides nurses with a direct route to permanent residency, commonly known as a Green Card. This means that once approved, nurses not only gain the ability to work in the United States but also enjoy the long-term security and benefits of permanent residency for themselves and, in many cases, their immediate family members. For aspiring nurses from countries such as Nigeria, India, the Philippines, and beyond, the EB-3 pathway offers stability, career advancement, and the chance to be part of one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems.
However, the application process can feel overwhelming without a clear roadmap. From securing an eligible U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor you, to passing the NCLEX-RN examination, completing your VisaScreen certificate, and going through the U.S. Department of Labor certification process, each stage requires careful attention to detail. Missing a step or submitting incomplete documentation can lead to unnecessary delays—or even denials. That’s why having a step-by-step 2025 guide for the EB-3 visa process for nurses is essential. With structured preparation, the path becomes much more manageable and less intimidating.
It’s also important to recognize that immigration policies can shift, which makes staying updated on the 2025 EB-3 requirements critical. Nurses applying this year should be aware of updated timelines, processing priorities, and any policy changes that may affect visa approval rates. Early preparation not only reduces the risk of complications but also helps nurses stay competitive in a growing pool of international applicants. By beginning the process now, you position yourself ahead of others and increase your chances of securing a U.S. job offer and moving through the immigration system smoothly.
💰 Average Nurse Salary in USA (2025) – State-by-State Guide: How Much Nurses Really Make
The good news is that thousands of foreign-trained nurses have already succeeded in using the EB-3 visa to relocate to the United States, proving that the process, while detailed, is absolutely achievable. With the right planning, perseverance, and resources, you too can join the U.S. nursing workforce in 2025. This guide will break down each step—from eligibility requirements and application documents to employer sponsorship and final approval—so you have a clear and actionable path to follow.
In the sections that follow, you’ll gain a complete understanding of the EB-3 visa process for nurses in 2025, helping you confidently take your first step toward a fulfilling nursing career in the United States.
Step 1: Understand the EB-3 Visa and Its Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin your application, it’s essential to understand what the EB-3 visa is and who qualifies for it. The EB-3 is an employment-based immigrant visa that falls under the third preference category. It is designed for three main groups of workers:
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Skilled Workers – Individuals with at least two years of training or work experience.
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Professionals – Those with a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or foreign equivalent) in their field.
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Other Workers – Unskilled laborers capable of performing jobs that require less than two years of training.
Nurses are generally classified as skilled workers or professionals, depending on their education and credentials. What makes the EB-3 pathway unique for nurses is that nursing is considered a Schedule A occupation by the U.S. Department of Labor. This designation acknowledges that there is a chronic shortage of nurses in the United States. Because of this, nurses applying under Schedule A do not need to go through the lengthy labor market test (PERM process) that other professions must complete. This significantly shortens the visa processing timeline.
Eligibility Requirements for Nurses Applying for the EB-3 Visa in 2025:
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You must hold a valid nursing license in your home country.
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You must have a nursing degree or diploma that qualifies you to practice as a registered nurse.
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You must pass the NCLEX-RN exam (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses).
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You need a VisaScreen certificate, which verifies your education, license, and English language proficiency.
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You must secure a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your EB-3 petition.
Understanding these requirements early in the process ensures you can prepare the necessary documents, complete exams on time, and avoid unnecessary delays. Many internationally educated nurses underestimate how long it can take to schedule and pass the NCLEX or to gather transcripts for credential verification. Starting early in 2025 will give you a competitive advantage over other applicants.
Step 2: Secure a U.S. Employer Sponsorship
Once you’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements for the EB-3 visa, the next critical step is to secure a job offer from a U.S. healthcare employer.
Since the EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa, you cannot apply on your own—the process must be initiated by an employer who is willing to sponsor your Green Card.
Who Can Sponsor You?
Typically, U.S. hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and healthcare staffing agencies are the primary sponsors for foreign-trained nurses. These employers submit a petition (Form I-140) to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf, confirming that they need your services and are committed to hiring you once your visa is approved.
How to Find a Sponsoring Employer in 2025:
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Research U.S. healthcare facilities that hire internationally educated nurses. Many have recruitment programs specifically designed for foreign applicants.
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Connect with international nurse recruitment agencies that specialize in EB-3 sponsorship. These agencies often provide guidance throughout the process and can match you with hospitals actively seeking foreign nurses.
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Explore U.S. job boards, nursing associations, and professional networks. Many hospitals advertise open positions with EB-3 sponsorship eligibility.
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Attend virtual nursing job fairs and information sessions hosted by U.S. healthcare organizations.
What Employers Look for in International Nurses:
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A valid nursing degree and home-country license.
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Evidence of passing or scheduling the NCLEX-RN exam.
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Strong English proficiency, often proven through IELTS or TOEFL scores (part of the VisaScreen requirement).
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Commitment to relocating and working in the U.S. once visa approval is granted.
Why Employer Sponsorship is Important:
Without sponsorship, your EB-3 application cannot move forward. The employer is responsible for filing the I-140 petition, which is the foundation of the entire process. Having a sponsor also demonstrates to USCIS that your skills are in demand and that you have a guaranteed job waiting for you in the U.S. healthcare system.
Tip for 2025 Applicants: Competition among internationally educated nurses is increasing due to the global nursing shortage. To stand out, prepare a strong résumé, highlight any international experience, and show evidence of progress toward your NCLEX and VisaScreen certification. Employers are more likely to select candidates who demonstrate readiness and commitment.
Proven Steps: How to Pass the VisaScreen Certificate for US Nursing Jobs (2025 update)
Step 3: Complete Credential Verification and Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After securing a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your EB-3 visa, the next essential step is to verify your nursing credentials and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
These requirements ensure that internationally educated nurses meet U.S. professional standards before being allowed to practice.
Credential Verification
Before taking the NCLEX, your nursing education and professional license must be evaluated by a recognized credentialing body. For most nurses, this process is handled through the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) or an equivalent agency. The credentialing process involves:
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Submitting your nursing school transcripts.
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Providing proof of your valid home-country nursing license.
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Confirming that your nursing program meets U.S. educational standards.
This evaluation is necessary to confirm that you are academically and professionally qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Without it, you will not be permitted to move forward in the licensing process.
The NCLEX-RN Exam
The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) is the gold standard exam that determines whether a nurse is prepared to practice safely and effectively in the U.S. healthcare system. Administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), it assesses knowledge in key areas such as patient care, safety, pharmacology, health promotion, and management of care.
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The exam is computer adaptive, meaning the difficulty level adjusts based on your performance.
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It is offered in approved testing centers worldwide, so you do not necessarily need to travel to the U.S. to take it.
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Passing the NCLEX is a non-negotiable requirement for all foreign-trained nurses seeking to work in the United States.
Why This Step Matters
Credential verification and NCLEX success are the backbone of your EB-3 visa journey. Without passing the NCLEX, you cannot obtain a state nursing license, and without a license, you cannot legally work as a nurse in the U.S.—even if your EB-3 visa is approved. Employers and immigration authorities alike require this proof of competency.
Tips for Success in 2025:
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Begin the credential verification process early; it can take several months for agencies to process your documents.
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Create a structured NCLEX study plan, using updated 2025 resources, practice questions, and review courses.
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Join online forums and study groups for international nurses preparing for the NCLEX.
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Schedule your exam as soon as you are eligible—delays here can stall your entire EB-3 process.
Step 4: Obtain Your VisaScreen Certificate
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN exam and completed credential verification, the next crucial step in the EB-3 visa process for nurses 2025 is securing your VisaScreen certificate. This document is a legal requirement for all internationally educated healthcare professionals who want to work in the United States.
What Is the VisaScreen Certificate?
The VisaScreen is a comprehensive screening program administered by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS International, Inc.). It evaluates your nursing education, professional license, and English language proficiency to confirm that your qualifications meet U.S. standards. Without this certificate, your visa application cannot be approved, even if you already have a sponsoring employer.
Key Components of the VisaScreen Process:
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Educational Review – Ensures that your nursing degree or diploma is comparable to U.S. standards.
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Licensure Review – Confirms the validity of your home-country nursing license and checks for any disciplinary issues.
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NCLEX-RN Exam Proof – Validates that you have passed the required licensing exam for U.S. nurses.
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English Language Proficiency – Demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in English, typically through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Some nurses may be exempt if their nursing education was completed in an English-speaking country.
Why the VisaScreen Is Important
The VisaScreen certificate is more than just paperwork—it is a mandatory approval that ensures U.S. employers, immigration authorities, and patients can trust your qualifications. It protects both the nurse and the healthcare system by verifying that you are fully prepared to practice safely in the United States.
How to Apply for the VisaScreen in 2025:
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Submit an application directly through the CGFNS website.
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Provide your educational transcripts, proof of licensure, and NCLEX results.
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Schedule and complete your English proficiency exam if required.
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Pay the VisaScreen processing fee.
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Wait for CGFNS to issue the certificate (processing times may vary but typically take several months).
Tips for Success:
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Begin the VisaScreen process immediately after passing the NCLEX to avoid unnecessary delays.
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Double-check all documents for accuracy before submission; missing or incomplete information can slow down approval.
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Keep copies of every document you submit for your personal records.
Once your VisaScreen certificate is issued, you are officially cleared to move forward with the immigration stage of the EB-3 process. At this point, your U.S. employer can proceed with filing your petition to bring you one step closer to your American nursing career.
Step 5: Employer Files Form I-140 Petition
Once you have your VisaScreen certificate in hand, your U.S. employer can officially begin the immigration filing process by submitting Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This is one of the most important milestones in the EB-3 visa process for nurses 2025, as it is the formal request to the U.S. government to classify you as a worker eligible for permanent residency.
What Is Form I-140?
Form I-140 is a petition filed by your sponsoring employer with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It serves two main purposes:
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It proves that your employer has a legitimate job available for you in the U.S.
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It shows that you meet the qualifications required for that position as a registered nurse.
Key Information Required in Form I-140:
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Employer’s details, including proof of their financial ability to pay your wages.
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Your professional credentials, including NCLEX results and VisaScreen certificate.
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Evidence that the nursing position qualifies as a Schedule A occupation, which exempts nurses from the lengthy labor certification process.
Why the I-140 Petition Matters
The approval of Form I-140 confirms that the U.S. government recognizes you as eligible to immigrate under the EB-3 category. Without this approval, you cannot proceed to the final stages of consular processing or adjustment of status.
Processing Times in 2025
On average, I-140 petitions for Schedule A occupations like nursing are processed faster than other categories. However, processing times can vary depending on USCIS workload and your country of origin. Nurses from high-demand countries such as the Philippines, India, or Nigeria may face additional backlogs if visa numbers are limited.
Premium Processing Option
In some cases, your employer may choose to file with premium processing, which guarantees USCIS action (approval, denial, or request for evidence) within 15 calendar days. While this does not shorten the entire EB-3 visa timeline, it can speed up this critical step.
Tips for Success:
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Ensure that your employer provides accurate and complete documentation to avoid Requests for Evidence (RFEs), which can delay processing.
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Keep a copy of the I-140 petition and receipt notice for your records.
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Track your case online using the USCIS case number to stay updated on progress.
Once your I-140 petition is approved, you move into the final stage of the EB-3 visa journey—either consular processing (if you are outside the U.S.) or adjustment of status (if you are already legally in the U.S.). This step brings you significantly closer to obtaining your Green Card and officially beginning your nursing career in America.
Step-by-Step Guide: How Nurses Can Apply for a Work Visa in 2025
Step 6: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
After your employer’s Form I-140 petition is approved, the next step in the EB-3 visa process for nurses 2025 is to either go through consular processing (if you are applying from outside the U.S.) or adjustment of status (if you are already legally in the U.S.). This is the stage where you officially complete your immigration journey and receive permanent residency.
Option 1: Consular Processing (Outside the U.S.)
Most internationally educated nurses applying for the EB-3 visa complete their immigration paperwork through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The process typically involves:
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National Visa Center (NVC) Processing – After I-140 approval, your case is transferred to the NVC, which will request supporting documents such as your passport, birth certificate, police clearance, and civil records.
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DS-260 Application – You will complete the DS-260 online immigrant visa application form.
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Visa Interview – You will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. A consular officer will verify your eligibility, review your documents, and confirm your intention to work as a nurse in the U.S.
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Medical Examination – You must undergo a medical exam by an embassy-approved physician.
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Visa Issuance – If approved, you will receive your EB-3 immigrant visa, which allows you to travel to the United States as a permanent resident.
Option 2: Adjustment of Status (Inside the U.S.)
If you are already in the U.S. under a valid non-immigrant visa (such as a student visa or temporary work visa), you may apply for a status adjustment instead of consular processing. This involves filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS. While waiting for approval, you may also apply for work authorization and advance parole (travel permission).
Key Considerations for Nurses in 2025:
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Visa Bulletin Priority Dates: Availability of EB-3 visas depends on your country of origin. Nurses from countries with high demand—like the Philippines, India, or Nigeria—may need to monitor the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin for their priority date to become current.
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Document Accuracy: Any errors or missing information in your NVC or I-485 submission can delay approval. Double-check all forms and supporting documents before submission.
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Interview Preparation: Be prepared to answer questions about your nursing qualifications, job offer, and intention to work in the U.S. healthcare system.
Final Outcome
Once your consular officer (or USCIS, in the case of adjustment of status) approves your application, you will receive your immigrant visa or Green Card approval notice. This grants you lawful permanent residency, allowing you to live and work in the United States indefinitely. At this stage, you are officially ready to begin your new life and nursing career in America.
Step 7: Arrival in the U.S. and Starting Your Nursing Career
After completing consular processing or adjustment of status, you will receive your immigrant visa stamp or Green Card approval notice. This marks the beginning of your new life in the United States as a lawful permanent resident and professional nurse.
The transition from visa approval to starting your first job is an exciting milestone that requires careful planning to ensure a smooth start.
1. Traveling to the United States
With your EB-3 visa in hand, you can book your flight to the U.S. Upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, immigration officers will verify your documents and officially admit you as a permanent resident. You will receive a temporary stamp in your passport, which serves as proof of residency until your physical Green Card is mailed to your U.S. address.
2. Settling Into Your New Life
Relocating to a new country comes with challenges, but being prepared helps ease the transition. Nurses should arrange housing, transportation, and financial essentials before or shortly after arrival. Some employers provide relocation support, such as temporary housing or settlement assistance, so check with your sponsoring hospital or agency about available benefits.
3. Beginning Your Nursing Job
As an EB-3 visa holder, you are authorized to work immediately upon entry. Your sponsoring employer will likely schedule an orientation program to help you integrate into the workplace and adapt to U.S. healthcare standards. Depending on your state, you may need to complete final licensing requirements with the State Board of Nursing before practicing.
4. Family Considerations
If your spouse and children accompanied you as EB-3 dependents, they will also receive permanent residency. Spouses are allowed to work, and children can attend school or pursue higher education, making the EB-3 pathway an excellent option for families seeking long-term stability in the U.S.
5. Career Growth Opportunities
The EB-3 visa is not just a pathway to employment—it is a foundation for a long-term nursing career in America. With your Green Card, you have the freedom to change employers, pursue advanced nursing degrees, or specialize in high-demand fields like critical care, nurse education, or leadership roles. Over time, you may also become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
6. Adjusting Culturally and Professionally
The U.S. healthcare system may differ from what you are used to in your home country. Take advantage of training, mentorship, and cultural orientation programs offered by your employer. Networking with other international nurses and joining professional organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA), can help you adapt quickly.
Final Note
Your arrival in the U.S. marks more than just the end of the visa process—it’s the beginning of a rewarding career that makes a difference in patients’ lives. By following each step carefully, from EB-3 application to settling in America, you have positioned yourself for long-term success. The demand for skilled nurses in 2025 and beyond ensures that your contributions will be valued and your future secure.
Proven Steps: US Nursing Work Visa Guide 2025 – EB-3, H-1B, and Green Card Options
Conclusion: Your Future as a U.S. Nurse with the EB-3 Visa
The EB-3 visa process for nurses in 2025 may seem complex, but when broken down into clear, step-by-step stages, it becomes a manageable and rewarding journey. From securing a U.S. job offer and filing your petition to attending your visa interview and finally arriving in America, each stage brings you closer to achieving your dream of working as a nurse in the United States.
The EB-3 pathway stands out because it not only offers permanent residency but also opens doors for your family, career growth, and long-term stability. Unlike temporary work visas, the EB-3 gives you the freedom to build a life in the U.S., pursue advanced nursing roles, and even apply for U.S. citizenship in the future.
With the U.S. healthcare system facing a continuing nursing shortage in 2025 and beyond, internationally educated nurses are more in demand than ever. By taking this opportunity seriously—preparing your documents, staying organized, and following immigration requirements—you are positioning yourself for success in one of the world’s most respected healthcare systems.
Your journey doesn’t end with a visa—it begins with it. Every patient you will care for, every life you will touch, and every career milestone you will achieve is part of a larger story that started with your decision to take the first step toward the EB-3 visa.
If your dream is to provide compassionate care in the U.S. while creating a better future for yourself and your family, there has never been a better time to act. Start preparing today, take each step with confidence, and embrace the exciting opportunities that await you as a U.S. nurse.
✨ The EB-3 visa is more than just an immigration process—it is the gateway to your American nursing career and a brighter future.
Key Resources and External Links for EB-3 Visa Nurses 2025
If you are ready to begin your journey toward a U.S. nursing career, the following official resources will guide you through the EB-3 visa process and related requirements:
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – Official government website with detailed information on the EB-3 visa process, forms, and updates.
https://www.uscis.gov -
CGFNS International (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) – Required for VisaScreen certification, credential evaluation, and professional verification for internationally educated nurses.
https://www.cgfns.org -
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) – Information about the NCLEX-RN exam, licensing requirements, and testing details.
https://www.ncsbn.org -
U.S. Department of State – Visa Bulletin – Monthly updates on EB-3 visa availability and priority date movements.
https://travel.state.gov -
IELTS & TOEFL Official Sites – English proficiency requirements and registration details for nurses completing VisaScreen.
https://www.ielts.org
https://www.ets.org/toefl -
State Nursing Boards in the U.S. – Each state has its own nursing board that issues licenses. Be sure to check the state where your employer is located for licensing requirements.
http://California Board of Registered Nursing
