Best Way To Travel from Nigeria to the US as a Nurse in 2025: Step by Step Guide

If you’re among the many passionate healthcare professionals wondering about the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, you’re not alone and you’re in the right place. In 2025, more Nigerian nurses than ever are looking for opportunities to expand their careers, earn higher salaries, and live out their dreams in the United States.

The path to nursing in the U.S.A may seem difficult at first, especially with constant dynamic immigration policies, credentialing processes, licensing exams, and strict visa requirements. But the truth is, thousands of Nigerian-trained nurses have already made the journey successfully, and you can as well. The best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 depends on understanding each step clearly and preparing in advance. This article is here to serve as your step-by-step from registration to relocation.

Whether you’re a registered nurse (RN), a midwife, or a newly graduated nursing student in Nigeria, the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 involves a combination of licensing (like the NCLEX-RN exam), credential evaluation (such as through CGFNS), securing a valid job offer or visa sponsorship, and complying with U.S. immigration and nursing board requirements. With the U.S. still facing a drastic nursing shortage and recruiting from English-speaking countries like Nigeria, now is the perfect time to begin this journey.

But while opportunities are abundant, it’s important to approach this dream with the right information. Many nurses waste years and money using outdated advice, illegal agents, or incomplete documentation. That’s why this blog post on the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 was created , to give you accurate, updated, and trustworthy guidance.

Best Way To Travel From Nigeria to the US as a Nurse in 2025

We’ll walk you through every critical stage:

• How to verify your Nigerian nursing credentials

• How to register and pass the NCLEX-RN in 2025

• How to apply for U.S. state licensure and visa screen

• How to find genuine employers or recruitment agencies that sponsor Nigerian nurses

• How to successfully relocate and adjust to life in the U.S.

Choosing the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 means more than just getting on a plane,  it’s about making the smartest, safest, and most rewarding decisions for your career and future. Whether you plan to work in New York, Texas, California, or any U.S. state, the information in this guide will help you navigate the path step by step, avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing your chances of success. By the end of this article, you won’t just know the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 you’ll feel ready to take action, equipped with real-world knowledge and the confidence to move forward.

How to Verify Your Nigerian Nursing Credentials

If you’re planning the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, verifying your nursing credentials is a critical step that cannot be overlooked. Before you can sit for the NCLEX-RN exam or even be considered for employment in the U.S., your Nigerian nursing qualifications must be assessed and validated through official U.S.-approved organizations.

This process ensures that your nursing education, training, and license meet the standards expected in the United States. Without it, your application will stall—and so will your dream of practicing nursing abroad.

Why Credential Verification Is Vital

Credential verification confirms that your nursing degree from Nigeria is equivalent to U.S. educational standards. It also checks your professional license status to ensure it’s current, active, and in good standing. This is not just an administrative formality; it’s a requirement set by all U.S. State Boards of Nursing (BONs).

In short, if you’re seeking the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, this is one of the most important foundational steps in the journey.

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Who Verifies Nigerian Nursing Credentials for the U.S.?

The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS International) is the most widely accepted organization for verifying international nursing credentials. Some state boards may also accept credential evaluation reports from other agencies such as:

• Josef Silny & Associates

• World Education Services (WES) – limited use

• International Education Research Foundation (IERF)

However, CGFNS is the gold standard, especially for nurses from Nigeria.

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying Nigerian Nursing Credentials

Here is a simple breakdown of the process Nigerian nurses should follow to verify their qualifications for U.S. licensure and immigration purposes.

Step 1: Create an Account with CGFNS

Visit the official CGFNS website and create a secure account. Choose the CES Professional Report (Credential Evaluation Service) if your state requires only education evaluation, or the CGFNS Certification Program if you’re applying for a VisaScreen or additional licensure steps.

You will need:

• A valid passport

• Email address

• Academic history

• Employment records (if applicable)

This initial setup aligns with the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, ensuring you’re following a recognized and respected pathway.

Step 2: Request Your Transcripts from Nursing School

You must contact your nursing institution in Nigeria (e.g., University of Nigeria, University of Ibadan, School of Nursing) and have them send:

• Transcripts of records

• Proof of clinical hours

• Syllabus/course description (if required)

These documents must be sent directly to CGFNS in a sealed envelope by the school. Documents sent by you (the applicant) will not be accepted.

Step 3: Verify Your License with the Nigerian Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMCN)

CGFNS also requires proof of licensure, which must be verified by the NMCN. You must:

• Complete a license verification request form (often available on NMCN’s website)

• Pay a small processing fee

• Request that the NMCN sends the verification directly to CGFNS

This step can take a few weeks, so it’s important to begin early. Skipping or delaying this will hold up your NCLEX eligibility and hurt your chances of progressing along the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025.

Step 4: Wait for CGFNS to Complete the Evaluation

Once CGFNS has received all documents, they will begin the evaluation. This takes 6–12 weeks, depending on processing times. You’ll be notified via email when your report is complete, and it will be sent directly to your chosen State Board of Nursing.

🕓 Important: Some nurses face delays due to incomplete transcripts, missing course details, or school holidays. Double-check that your school and NMCN are responsive and have your current info.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To truly follow the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, avoid these errors:

• Submitting unofficial documents: All paperwork must come directly from the issuing institution.

• Using an unaccepted credential agency: Always check your State BON’s approved evaluator list.

• Not tracking submissions: Use tracking numbers and follow up with both your school and NMCN to ensure timely delivery.

• Waiting until the last minute: This step should be initiated 3–6 months before you plan to register for the NCLEX-RN or apply for a job.

How to Register and Pass the NCLEX-RN in 2025

For any Nigerian nurse seeking the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, one essential step stands out passing the NCLEX-RN exam. This examination is not just a test; it’s a professional gateway that validates your qualifications to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the United States. Without it, your nursing journey to the US cannot fully begin. If you’re planning to migrate for a rewarding healthcare career, understanding how to register and pass the NCLEX-RN in 2025 is key to ensuring a smooth and successful relocation.

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Step-by-Step NCLEX-RN Registration Process for Nigerian Nurses

Before diving into preparation strategies, let’s walk through the NCLEX-RN registration process in 2025. This roadmap is designed to simplify what might seem like an overwhelming task. It aligns perfectly with the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 because successful registration is a core requirement.

1. Choose the Right State Board of Nursing

Each US state has its own Board of Nursing (BON) with different eligibility requirements. As a nurse from Nigeria, your first step is to research which state BON is internationally friendly, accepts foreign-educated nurses, and has a processing time that suits your timeline.

🔎 Pro Tip: Many Nigerian nurses opt for states like Texas, New York, or Illinois, as they have streamlined processes for international applicants.

2. Credential Evaluation via CGFNS or Other Approved Agencies

Once you’ve chosen your BON, you’ll need to verify your educational credentials. Most states require a credential evaluation to ensure your Nigerian nursing education meets US standards. The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) is the most widely accepted agency for this.

You’ll be required to:

• Create an account on the CGFNS website.

• Submit transcripts from your nursing school in Nigeria.

• Provide verification of licensure from the Nigerian Nursing and Midwifery Council.

• Pay applicable fees (around $350–$400).

This evaluation takes 6–12 weeks, so factor this into your timeline. This step is non-negotiable if you’re pursuing the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025.

3. Apply for NCLEX-RN with Your Chosen State Board

After your credentials are accepted, you can proceed to apply directly to your State BON for NCLEX-RN eligibility. This usually involves:

• Completing an application form.

• Paying the application fee ($75–$200 depending on the state).

• Submitting background checks and fingerprinting.

Once approved, your BON will notify the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) that you’re eligible.

4. Register with Pearson VUE

Next, go to www.pearsonvue.com/nclex to create your account and pay the NCLEX-RN exam fee ($200 USD as of 2025). After registration, you’ll receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) via email, which allows you to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE test center.

✈️ For Nigerian nurses, the nearest international Pearson VUE testing centers are usually in South Africa, India, the Philippines, or the UAE. Choose a location and plan your travel accordingly—this is a key part of the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025.

How to Pass the NCLEX-RN in 2025 – Proven Study Strategy

Now that registration is complete, your success hinges on preparation. The NCLEX-RN is unlike any nursing exam you’ve taken in Nigeria. It tests critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and prioritization—not just textbook knowledge.

Here’s a proven strategy to pass the NCLEX-RN in 2025 and continue on your journey to the US.

1. Understand the 2025 NCLEX-RN Format (Next Generation NCLEX – NGN)

As of 2023, the NCLEX introduced Next Generation NCLEX (NGN), which includes:

• Case-based scenarios

• Enhanced drag-and-drop

• Matrix/grid answers

• Clinical judgment evaluation

These question types are designed to simulate real-life nursing situations. Mastering them is vital for any nurse pursuing the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025.

2. Use High-Yield NCLEX Resources

Here are the most trusted NCLEX-RN prep resources in 2025:

• UWorld NCLEX-RN: Highly recommended for its challenging practice questions.

• Saunders Comprehensive NCLEX Review: Great for content review.

• NCSBN Learning Extension or Next Gen Learning Hub: Offers official guidance from the NCLEX creators.

• Mark Klimek Lectures (updated NGN versions): Widely used by international nurses.

🧠 Study Tip: Study for 2–4 months, depending on your baseline knowledge. Make a schedule that fits your lifestyle, especially if you’re still working in Nigeria while preparing.

3. Practice Critical Thinking and Time Management

Passing the NCLEX-RN is more about how you think than what you know. Many questions are about prioritization (e.g., who do you see first?), infection control, and safety.

To build these skills:

• Do 75–100 practice questions daily.

• Time yourself to simulate real test conditions.

• Review rationales for every answer, right or wrong.

This practice builds clinical judgment, a skill vital for success on the NGN exam and in your future US nursing job.

4. Join Online NCLEX Study Groups

Thousands of Nigerian nurses preparing for the NCLEX are active in:

• Facebook groups like “Nigerian Nurses NCLEX Study Group” or “International Nurses for NCLEX Success.”

• WhatsApp or Telegram groups created by peers.

• Reddit’s r/NCLEX community.

Sharing resources, discussing questions, and staying motivated through community support can make a huge difference. It’s one of the lesser-known but effective aspects of the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025.

5. Take the NCLEX Exam – With Confidence

Once you feel ready:

• Schedule your NCLEX-RN exam at the international test center.

• Arrive early with your passport and ATT letter.

• Expect 85–150 questions, with 5 hours max.

• You’ll get your results in 48–72 hours through the Quick Results service (extra fee), or wait for your official report.

How to Apply for U.S. State Licensure and VisaScreen

Once you’ve verified your Nigerian nursing credentials and passed the NCLEX-RN, the next critical step in pursuing the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 is applying for U.S. state licensure and obtaining your VisaScreen certificate. These two components are mandatory if you intend to work legally and professionally as a nurse in the United States.

Without them, your NCLEX success and credential evaluation will not translate into employment or a U.S. visa. Below is a breakdown of how to complete both steps effectively and on time.

What Is U.S. State Licensure for Nurses?

Each state in the U.S. has its Board of Nursing (BON), which governs the licensing of Registered Nurses (RNs). After passing the NCLEX-RN, you must apply for a nursing license in the state where you plan to work. This license authorizes you to practice legally as a nurse within that state’s jurisdiction.

If you’re navigating the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025, choosing the right state for licensure can also impact your visa processing time and job placement.

Steps to Apply for U.S. State Licensure:

1. Choose a State
   States like Texas, New York, Florida, and California are popular among international nurses for their well-established licensure pathways and high demand for RNs.

2. Complete the State Application
   Visit the website of your chosen BON and fill out the RN Licensure Application. You’ll typically need:

   • Proof of NCLEX-RN results

   • Credential evaluation report (from CGFNS or equivalent)

   • Background check and fingerprinting

   • Application fee (usually $75–$300)

3. Submit Required Documents
   Ensure your transcripts, CGFNS report, and verification of foreign nursing license (from Nigeria) are sent directly to the BON.

4. Receive Your U.S. RN License
   Once all documents are received and reviewed, you will be issued a license number, officially allowing you to practice in that state.

✅ Securing your license is a non-negotiable part of the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025. Without it, no employer or immigration attorney can move forward with your sponsorship.

What Is the VisaScreen Certificate?

The VisaScreen Certificate is issued by CGFNS and is required for internationally educated nurses applying for U.S. work visas, including the EB-3 immigrant visa and the H-1B visa. It’s essentially a green light from the U.S. government stating that your education, license, English proficiency, and credentials meet federal standards.

Requirements for VisaScreen:

1. Educational and License Validation
   CGFNS uses the documents you’ve already submitted for your CES or Certification Program.

2. NCLEX-RN Pass Confirmation
   Your official results from Pearson VUE are verified.

3. English Language Proficiency
   You must pass either:

   • IELTS Academic: Overall 6.5, with 7.0 in Speaking

   • TOEFL iBT: 83 minimum score
     (English test is usually waived if your nursing program was taught in English and in an English-speaking country.)

4. Pay the VisaScreen Fee
   As of 2025, the fee is approximately $665 (subject to change).

5. CGFNS Review and Issue Certificate
   Once all criteria are met, CGFNS issues your VisaScreen certificate, valid for 5 years. This certificate must be presented at your U.S. visa interview and to your future employer.

How to Find Genuine Employers or Recruitment Agencies That Sponsor Nigerian Nurses

One of the final but most critical steps in discovering the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 is finding a genuine employer or recruitment agency that offers visa sponsorship. While many opportunities exist, not all recruiters are legitimate, and falling for a scam can delay or derail your entire migration journey.

Start by targeting U.S. hospitals or healthcare networks known for sponsoring foreign-trained nurses, such as AdventHealth, Mayo Clinic, or Mount Sinai. Additionally, several well-vetted international recruitment agencies like O’Grady Peyton International, Avant Healthcare Professionals, and Conexus MedStaff specialize in helping Nigerian nurses secure jobs and immigration support.

Look for agencies that:

• Have a strong online presence and verified credentials.

• Do not ask for large upfront fees.

• Provide support with NCLEX, licensure, and VisaScreen.

• Offer direct contracts with U.S. hospitals.

Also, connect with other Nigerian nurses on social platforms or forums to get real reviews and recommendations. Choosing a reputable agency ensures a smoother process and is an essential part of the best way to travel from Nigeria to the US as a nurse in 2025 safely, legally, and with professional guidance.