How Nurses Can Get a US Green Card in 2025: Step-by-Step Sponsorship Guide

How Nurses Can Get a US Green Card in 2025: Step-by-Step Sponsorship Guide

If you’ve been searching for how nurses can get a US green card in 2025, you’re likely looking for clear answers about the sponsorship process, requirements, and what it really takes to live and work as a nurse in the United States.

The good news is that thousands of international nurses successfully secure permanent residency every year, but the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.

When I first started exploring U.S. nursing opportunities, I remember feeling lost in all the immigration jargon—petition numbers, visa categories, priority dates. It seemed like an endless maze. But once I broke the process down step by step, it became much easier to navigate, and I realized that with the right employer and proper documentation, the dream of working in the U.S. was entirely possible.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through each stage of the sponsorship process: from finding an employer willing to petition for your green card, to understanding the EB-3 visa route, preparing for licensing exams like the NCLEX-RN, and finally adjusting your status or completing consular processing. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap of what to expect in 2025 and how to avoid common mistakes that delay many nurses’ applications.

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Why U.S. Nurses Need a Green Card in 2025

The demand for qualified nurses in the United States continues to grow, and healthcare systems are increasingly looking abroad to fill the shortage. While temporary work visas may allow international nurses to work in the U.S. for a limited period, a green card offers something much more valuable: permanent residency.

With a green card, nurses gain the freedom to live and work anywhere in the country without worrying about visa expiration dates or employer restrictions. It also opens the door to long-term stability, including the option to bring immediate family members, pursue advanced nursing education, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.

In 2025, green card sponsorship remains the most reliable immigration pathway for nurses who want to build a lasting career in the U.S. Unlike short-term visa programs that can change with government policy, the employment-based (EB-3) green card route is a well-established process that continues to welcome thousands of international nurses every year.

Eligibility Requirements for Nurses Applying for a U.S. Green Card

Before starting the sponsorship process, nurses must meet specific requirements to qualify for a U.S. green card. These requirements ensure that candidates are professionally prepared and capable of providing safe, quality care in American healthcare settings.

1. Nursing Education and Licensure

   • You must hold at least a nursing diploma or degree equivalent to U.S. standards.

   • Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is essential, as it proves you meet U.S. licensing requirements to practice as a registered nurse.

2. English Language Proficiency

   • Unless you were educated in an English-speaking country, you will need to pass an English proficiency test such as IELTS (Academic) or TOEFL iBT. This requirement is set by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

3. VisaScreen® Certification

   • The VisaScreen® certificate, issued by CGFNS, verifies that your nursing education, license, and English skills meet U.S. immigration standards. This certificate is mandatory for nurses seeking a green card.

4. U.S. Employer Sponsorship

   • To apply for a green card, you must have a U.S. employer willing to file the necessary petitions on your behalf. Most nurses are sponsored through hospitals, healthcare systems, or recruitment agencies.

Meeting these eligibility requirements is the foundation of the green card process. Without them, applications are delayed or denied, so it’s critical to prepare early before beginning the official sponsorship steps.

Step 1: Pass the NCLEX-RN and English Proficiency Exams

The very first step in securing a U.S. green card as a nurse is proving that you are qualified to practice in the United States.

This requires passing both the NCLEX-RN exam and, in most cases, an English language proficiency test.

NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses)

• This exam is required for all nurses who want to practice in the U.S.

• It tests your knowledge in areas such as patient safety, pharmacology, health promotion, and clinical judgment.

• International nurses usually apply for the exam through a U.S. state board of nursing, and approval to test is granted once your credentials are verified.

English Language Proficiency

• If your nursing education was not in English, you’ll need to demonstrate language skills.

• The most widely accepted exams are IELTS (Academic) and TOEFL iBT.

• A passing score ensures that you can communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and healthcare teams.

Why This Step Matters
Passing these exams early speeds up the sponsorship process because most U.S. employers will not offer you a contract until they know you are licensed and can meet communication requirements. Employers often view nurses who already hold NCLEX and English test results as more “job-ready,” which can shorten the hiring and green card petition timeline.

Step 2: Secure a U.S. Employer Willing to Sponsor Nurses

Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN and met the English proficiency requirement, the next major step is finding a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor your green card application. Sponsorship is essential because the immigration process for nurses is employer-driven—you cannot self-petition for a green card.

Where to Find Sponsoring Employers

• Hospitals and Healthcare Systems: Many large hospitals across the U.S. actively recruit international nurses to address staffing shortages.

• Nursing Recruitment Agencies: Specialized agencies connect international nurses with employers in the U.S. and handle much of the paperwork.

• Direct Applications: Some nurses apply directly through hospital websites or U.S. healthcare job boards that advertise “green card sponsorship available.”

What Employers Provide

• Filing the I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker on your behalf.

• Assistance with VisaScreen® certification and other immigration documentation.

• In some cases, support for relocation, housing, and cultural adaptation programs.

Tips for Success

• Target employers that specifically mention “green card sponsorship for nurses” in their postings.

• Have all your credentials, exam results, and professional documents ready before applying.

• Be prepared for interviews that assess both your clinical skills and your ability to adapt to U.S. healthcare standards.

Finding the right employer is the turning point in your journey—once an offer of employment and sponsorship is secured, you can officially move forward in the green card process.

Step 3: Understanding the EB-3 Visa for Nurses

The EB-3 visa is the primary pathway that allows international nurses to obtain permanent residency in the United States. It falls under the Employment-Based Third Preference (EB-3) category, which is designed for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers. Nurses are considered a “Schedule A” occupation, meaning the U.S. government recognizes nursing as a shortage profession and waives certain steps, such as the labor certification process.

Key Features of the EB-3 Visa for Nurses

• Direct Green Card Pathway: Nurses applying under EB-3 can transition directly to permanent residency.

• Schedule A Designation: Speeds up the process because employers do not need to prove a shortage of nurses—it’s already established.

• Family Benefits: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can also apply for green cards as dependents.

Why the EB-3 Matters in 2025
With the continued nursing shortage in the U.S., the EB-3 visa remains the most reliable and stable immigration route for nurses. Policies can shift with temporary visas, but the EB-3 provides a permanent solution for both nurses and their families.

Employer’s Role
Your sponsoring employer will file the I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker to begin the EB-3 process. This petition proves that you meet the qualifications and that the employer is offering you a permanent, full-time nursing position in the U.S.

In short, the EB-3 visa is the bridge that connects international nurses to long-term residency and career growth in the United States.

Step 4: Filing the I-140 Petition (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)

After securing an employer and confirming eligibility under the EB-3 visa category, the next official step is filing the Form I-140, also known as the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This is one of the most important stages in the green card sponsorship process because it establishes your place in line for U.S. permanent residency.

Who Files the Petition?

• The employer is responsible for filing the I-140 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• Nurses cannot file this petition on their own; it must come directly from the sponsoring healthcare facility or recruitment agency.

What the I-140 Includes

• Proof that the job offer is permanent and full-time.

• Evidence that you, as the nurse, meet all educational, licensing, and certification requirements (NCLEX-RN, VisaScreen®, English proficiency, etc.).

• Documentation showing that the employer can pay your offered salary.

Why the I-140 Matters

• The date USCIS receives your I-140 becomes your priority date. This date determines your place in line for green card processing and is essential when checking the U.S. Department of State’s monthly Visa Bulletin.

• A properly filed I-140 can significantly reduce delays. If errors occur, the entire process can stall, sometimes for months.

In simple terms, the I-140 petition is the official confirmation that a U.S. employer wants to hire you permanently and that you are qualified to work as a registered nurse in the United States. Once this step is complete, you can move toward the final stages of the green card process.

Step 5: Visa Bulletin, Priority Dates, and Waiting Times in 2025

Once your I-140 petition is approved, the next step is to monitor the Visa Bulletin published monthly by the U.S. Department of State. This bulletin determines when you can move forward with your green card application based on your priority date.

What Is a Priority Date?

• Your priority date is the day USCIS received your I-140 petition.

• Think of it as your “spot in line” for a green card.

• You can only proceed with the next step when your priority date becomes “current” in the Visa Bulletin.

Understanding the Visa Bulletin

• The Visa Bulletin lists cutoff dates for each visa category, including the EB-3 for nurses.

• If your priority date is earlier than the cutoff date, your date is considered current, and you can proceed with green card processing.

• If not, you must wait until your date moves up in line.

Waiting Times in 2025

• Nurses benefit from being a Schedule A occupation, which usually results in shorter wait times compared to other visa applicants.

• However, waiting periods vary depending on your country of origin. For example, nurses from countries with high demand, such as the Philippines or India, may experience longer backlogs than those from other regions.

Why This Step Matters
Many nurses underestimate the importance of checking the Visa Bulletin each month. Staying updated allows you to act quickly when your date becomes current, preventing unnecessary delays in receiving your green card.

Step 6: Consular Processing vs. Adjustment of Status for Nurses

Once your priority date becomes current in the Visa Bulletin, you’re ready to begin the final stage of the green card process. At this point, you will choose between consular processing or adjustment of status, depending on whether you are inside or outside the United States.

Consular Processing (For Nurses Outside the U.S.)

• Most international nurses complete their green card application through a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

• You’ll be scheduled for a medical exam and an in-person visa interview at the consulate.

• If approved, you’ll receive an immigrant visa that allows you to enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.

Adjustment of Status (For Nurses Already in the U.S.)

• If you are legally living and working in the U.S. under another visa (such as a student visa or temporary work visa), you may apply to adjust your status without leaving the country.

• This process involves filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) with USCIS.

• You may also be eligible for employment authorization and advance parole while your case is pending.

Which Path Is Right for You?

• Consular processing is faster for nurses abroad and is the standard route for most applicants.

• Adjustment of status is an option only for those already in the U.S. with a valid visa.

Regardless of the pathway, completing this step successfully means you are just one step away from becoming a U.S. permanent resident nurse.

Required Documents for Nurse Green Card Sponsorship in 2025

Having the right paperwork ready is critical to avoid delays in your green card process.

U.S. immigration officials are strict about documentation, and missing even one required item can result in requests for evidence (RFEs) or denials. Below are the key documents nurses need in 2025:

Personal Identification Documents

• Valid passport (must not expire during the application process)

• Birth certificate and government-issued photo ID

• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)

• Birth certificates of dependent children (if applying with family)

Professional Nursing Documents

• Nursing degree, diploma, and transcripts

• Current nursing license(s) from your home country

• NCLEX-RN exam results or state board licensure

• VisaScreen® certificate from CGFNS

Employment & Immigration Forms

• Job offer letter from your U.S. sponsoring employer

• Approved I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker

• Form DS-260 (for consular processing) or Form I-485 (for adjustment of status)

• Proof of employer’s ability to pay the offered salary (such as financial records or tax returns)

Other Supporting Documents

• English language proficiency exam results (IELTS or TOEFL, if required)

• Medical examination report from a U.S.-approved physician

• Two recent passport-style photographs

Why This Matters
Organizing your documents ahead of time ensures that once your priority date becomes current, you can move quickly to submit your application without unnecessary delays. Many nurses who prepare early are able to complete the green card process faster than those who wait until the last minute.

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How Long Does It Take for Nurses to Get a U.S. Green Card?

The timeline for nurses to obtain a U.S. green card in 2025 can vary widely based on individual circumstances, country of origin, and the efficiency of your sponsoring employer. While some nurses complete the process in just over a year, others may wait several years, especially if there are visa backlogs.

Average Timeline for Nurses

• Credentialing and Exams (NCLEX, IELTS, VisaScreen®): 6–12 months

• Employer Recruitment and Job Offer: 1–3 months

• I-140 Petition Processing: 6–9 months (faster if premium processing is used)

• Visa Bulletin Wait Time: Varies by country; some nurses wait only a few months, while others may wait years if their country is oversubscribed.

• Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status: 3–6 months after the priority date is current.

Total Estimated Time: For many nurses, the process takes 18 to 30 months, but this can be shorter or longer depending on demand and government processing times.

Country-Specific Waiting Times

• Nurses from countries with high demand (such as the Philippines and India) often face longer wait times due to annual green card limits.

• Nurses from countries with lower demand may experience much faster processing.

Why Timelines Matter
Understanding the expected wait helps nurses and their families prepare emotionally, financially, and professionally for the move to the United States. Staying updated with the Visa Bulletin is key to knowing when it’s your turn to proceed.

Costs Involved in the Nurse Green Card Process

Applying for a U.S. green card as a nurse in 2025 involves several costs that applicants and their families should prepare for in advance. While some employers cover part—or even all—of the expenses, others may expect you to pay certain fees. Having a clear idea of the financial requirements will help you avoid surprises.

Typical Costs for Nurses

• NCLEX-RN Exam Fees: Around $200–$300, plus any state board application fees.

• English Language Proficiency Tests (IELTS or TOEFL): About $200–$250 per attempt.

• VisaScreen® Certification: Approximately $665, plus transcript and license verification fees.

• USCIS I-140 Petition Filing Fee: $700 (usually paid by the employer).

• Premium Processing (Optional): $2,805 for faster I-140 approval (often covered by employers).

• Form DS-260 (Consular Processing): $325 per applicant.

• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): Around $1,140, plus an $85 biometrics fee.

• Medical Examination: $200–$500, depending on the country and physician.

• Miscellaneous Costs: Passport renewals, travel expenses, document translations, and courier services.

Who Pays the Costs?

• Many U.S. hospitals and recruitment agencies cover major expenses like the I-140 filing, VisaScreen®, and sometimes exam fees.

• Nurses should confirm with their employer what will be reimbursed and what they must pay personally.

Estimated Total: Out-of-pocket costs for nurses typically range between $1,000 and $3,000, but this amount can be lower if your employer provides full financial sponsorship.

Understanding the financial side of the process ensures you can budget properly and avoid delays caused by incomplete payments.

Common Challenges Nurses Face During Sponsorship

While many international nurses successfully obtain a U.S. green card, the journey is not without obstacles. Understanding these challenges ahead of time can help you prepare, avoid delays, and reduce stress throughout the sponsorship process.

1. Delays in Credential Verification

• Getting nursing transcripts, licenses, and other documents verified by organizations like CGFNS often takes longer than expected.

• Missing paperwork or errors in verification can stall your application for months.

2. Visa Bulletin Backlogs

• Nurses from countries with high demand—such as the Philippines and India—often face long waiting times due to annual green card limits.

• This backlog can stretch the process from two years to several years.

3. Employer-Related Issues

• Not all hospitals or agencies follow through with sponsorship promises.

• Some nurses experience contract disputes or delays because the employer fails to submit documents on time.

4. English Proficiency Requirements

• Passing IELTS or TOEFL is often a hurdle for nurses educated in non-English speaking countries.

• Failing multiple attempts can significantly delay VisaScreen® approval.

5. Adjusting to U.S. Immigration Policies

• Immigration rules can shift with new government policies, leading to uncertainty.

• Nurses need to stay updated and flexible in case requirements change during their application process.

6. Family Considerations

• Processing green cards for spouses and children can add extra paperwork, fees, and waiting time.

• Some families experience separation until all applications are approved.

Why Awareness Helps
By knowing these challenges in advance, nurses can create backup plans, stay organized, and choose reliable employers or recruitment agencies that provide genuine support.

Tips to Speed Up Your U.S. Green Card Approval as a Nurse

The U.S. green card process for nurses can feel long and overwhelming, but there are proven strategies to make it smoother and, in some cases, faster.

By preparing early and staying organized, you can avoid common pitfalls that delay many applications.

1. Complete Exams and Credentialing Early

• Take the NCLEX-RN and IELTS/TOEFL as soon as possible.

• Apply for your VisaScreen® certificate well in advance since processing times can be lengthy.

2. Choose Employers with Sponsorship Experience

• Work with hospitals or agencies that have a proven history of successfully sponsoring international nurses.

• Experienced employers are less likely to make mistakes in filing petitions.

3. Use Premium Processing for I-140

• If your employer agrees, request premium processing for your I-140 petition.

• This can reduce approval time from several months to just 15 calendar days.

4. Keep All Documents Ready and Updated

• Have passports, licenses, transcripts, and family documents organized.

• Outdated or missing paperwork often leads to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), which slow everything down.

5. Monitor the Visa Bulletin Regularly

• Check the U.S. State Department Visa Bulletin every month.

• Acting quickly when your priority date becomes current can save weeks or even months.

6. Work with Reputable Recruitment Agencies (if needed)

• Some nurses find it easier to work with agencies that guide them through the entire process.

• Just be sure to choose agencies with transparent contracts and fair terms.

By staying proactive and informed, you’ll be better positioned to navigate the green card process efficiently and begin your nursing career in the U.S. sooner.

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Living and Working in the U.S. After Green Card Approval

Receiving your U.S. green card is a major milestone, but it’s also just the beginning of your nursing journey in America. With permanent residency, you’ll enjoy new opportunities, responsibilities, and freedoms that go beyond employment.

Employment Opportunities

• You are no longer tied to a single employer—you can work in any hospital, clinic, or healthcare facility across the U.S.

• Green card holders can also pursue advanced degrees, certifications, or leadership roles in nursing without visa restrictions.

Family Benefits

• Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 who immigrated with you also gain permanent residency.

• This provides access to U.S. education, healthcare, and, eventually, the option to apply for citizenship.

Pathway to Citizenship

• After holding a green card for five years, you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.

• Becoming a citizen offers additional benefits, including the right to vote and protection from future immigration policy changes.

Cultural and Professional Adjustment

• Many nurses experience a period of adjustment when adapting to U.S. workplace culture, documentation systems, and patient care expectations.

• Support groups, mentorship programs, and continuing education courses can help make the transition smoother.

Long-Term Stability

• With a green card, you can plan your career and family life in the U.S. with confidence.

• Unlike temporary visas, you don’t have to worry about renewals or sudden status changes.

For many nurses, obtaining a green card is more than a professional achievement—it’s the foundation for building a secure and fulfilling life in the United States.

Final Thoughts: How Nurses Can Successfully Get a U.S. Green Card in 2025

The journey to becoming a U.S. permanent resident nurse can feel complex, but with the right steps, it is entirely achievable. By passing your NCLEX-RN and English proficiency exams, securing a reliable employer, and understanding the EB-3 sponsorship process, you’ll be well on your way to building a stable career in the United States.

It’s important to remember that preparation is your biggest advantage. Organizing your documents early, monitoring the Visa Bulletin, and working with experienced employers or agencies can significantly reduce stress and prevent delays. While backlogs and challenges may arise, thousands of nurses successfully complete this process every year—and you can, too.

For many international nurses, a U.S. green card is more than just a legal document—it represents long-term stability, career growth, and the chance to create a better future for themselves and their families. If you stay committed and follow the step-by-step process, 2025 could be the year your dream of living and working in the U.S. becomes a reality.

Resources for Nurses Applying for a U.S. Green Card in 2025

To help you navigate the process with confidence, here are some official resources and tools every international nurse should know:

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):
  https://www.uscis.gov
  – Official site for immigration forms, filing fees, and green card updates.

• U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin:
  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin.html
  – Monthly updates on visa availability and priority date movement.

• National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN):
  https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex
  – Official information about the NCLEX-RN exam, test prep, and registration.

• Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS):
  https://www.cgfns.org
  – Provides VisaScreen® certification and credential verification services.

• IELTS Official Site:
  https://www.ielts.org
  – Information on booking, preparing for, and taking the IELTS exam.

• TOEFL iBT Official Site:
  https://www.ets.org/toefl