Apply for a US visa as a healthcare professionals
With Espirita, you have a reliable partner by your side as you navigate the process of relocating to the United States of America. We advise you on the most suitable visa for your circumstances, helping you to make your move seamlessly and in a way that works for you and any dependents you may have.
Types of US visas for healthcare professionals
Most overseas nurses, occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals we help to relocate typically apply for one of three US visas:
EB-3 visa
The Employment-Based Third Preference or EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that allows skilled workers and professionals including nurses, occuptational therapists, physical therapists and radiology professionals to immigrate to the USA.
Nurses and physical therapists fall under the list of Schedule A pre-certified professions, allowing employers to expediting the hiring process.
Already in the USA on another visa? Healthcare professionals on an F-1 student visa, H-1B or E-3 Specialty Occupancy visa, or a spouse visa can apply for an adjustment of status to obtain the EB-3.
Eligibility criteria:
Applicants must have a full-time, permanent job offer from an US employer. In addition, they must have the required qualifications, pass their professional certification exam, complete the CGFNS VisaScreen® and obtain registration with the given professional state board.
Benefits:
- Offers a visa pathway to permanent residency (green card)
- Family members (spouse and children aged under 21) can accompany and be included in the visa application
Disadvantages:
- Processing times can be long and are dependent on US consulates and immigration
- Requires a US employer sponsor willing to undertake the process
TN visa
The Treaty NAFTA (TN) visa is available to Canadian and Mexican citizens under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) for skilled professionals, including registered nurses, physical therapists and occupational therapists.
Eligibility criteria:
Only Canadian and Mexican nurses and healthcare workers can apply. Applicants need a job offer in the US and must meet specific criteria, including passing their professional certification exam, completing the CGFNS VisaScreen® and obtaining licensure from the responsible professional state board.
Benefits:
- No annual cap or lottery
- Can be renewed indefinitely
- Fast processing times
Disadvantages:
- Only available to Canadian and Mexican citizens
- Does not offer a direct path to permanent residency
- Spouse or children do not have permission to work, but they can study in the US
E-3 visa
The E-3 visa is available exclusively to Australian citizens under the Australia-United States Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA) for specialty occupation workers.
Eligibility criteria:
Only Australian citizens in a specialty occupation like nursing can apply. Applicants need a job offer from a US employer and must possess the relevant qualifications and experience to pass the CGFNS VisaScreen® and obtain licensure. Holding AHPRA registration does not exempt candidates from taking the NCLEX-RN or other exams which are required for licensure.
Benefits:
- 10,500 visas issued exclusively to Australians (excluding dependents)
- Spouses can work in the US without restrictions
- Can be extended every two years without a limit
- Easy, low-cost application when compared to other visas
Disadvantages:
- Only available to Australian citizens
- Does not offer a direct path to permanent residency
- Dependents under the age of 21 do not have permission to work but they can study in the US
How do I choose the right visa?
Don’t worry, we will recommend a visa depending on your circumstances, qualifications and long-term goals. When applying for a healthcare job in the USA with Espirita, our experienced team of recruitment consultants and immigration lawyers will guide you through the entire process.
Factors we will consider before applying for a visa include:
- Your profession/qualifications
- Planned length of stay
- Licensure/professional registration
- Visa processing times
- Language tests
- Desire for permanent residency (Green Card) or citizenship in the future
- Dependents like a spouse or children
A US visa must – licensure and professional registration
Professional state boards in the USA require foreign-educated healthcare professionals to evaluate their academic and professional credentials. You will have to complete and pass this evaluation before you can apply for a US visa.
Start your US visa journey with Espirita
If you’re an international nurse or healthcare professional dreaming of making the move to the USA, partnering with Espirita gives you invaluable guidance from our relocation experts and access to career transforming healthcare roles. From visa application and licensure to booking flight and meeting you at the airport, our team will support you throughout the entire relocation process.
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