In 2025, the demand for qualified nurses in the United States has reached an all-time high. With healthcare systems recovering from the strain of the COVID-19 pandemic and facing a wave of retiring baby boomer professionals, U.S. hospitals and care facilities are turning to international talent to fill critical gaps — and they’re paying generously for it.
Miriam’s Journey From Lagos to New Jersey
Miriam Olawale, a 31-year-old nurse from Lagos, Nigeria, always dreamed of working in the U.S. For years, she worked at a busy teaching hospital in Ikeja, gaining experience in emergency care and maternal health.
But it wasn’t until early 2024 that she came across an international recruiter on LinkedIn advertising nursing opportunities in the U.S. with salary packages exceeding $200,000 annually — and, to her surprise, some roles didn’t even require the NCLEX exam upfront.
“I thought it was a scam at first,” Miriam admitted. “But after verifying the agency and researching the sponsoring hospital, I found out it was real. The U.S. is in such need of nurses that they’re willing to sponsor visas and offer high salaries, even while candidates prepare to take the NCLEX once they arrive.”
By early 2025, Miriam had secured an EB-3 visa, a relocation package that included temporary housing in Newark, and a job offer of $243,000 per year working night shifts in a high-acuity care unit. She’s currently scheduled to sit for her NCLEX in August — fully paid for by her employer.
Why the U.S. is Offering High-Paying Nursing Jobs to Foreigners in 2025
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) projects that over 1.1 million new RNs will be needed in the U.S. by the end of 2030.
But there simply aren’t enough graduates to fill that gap. As a result, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has streamlined visa processing for healthcare professionals, and many hospitals have partnered with international recruiters to tap into talent from Nigeria, the Philippines, India, Kenya, and beyond.
Some key reasons why international nurses are in demand:
- Retirement of older nurses is creating labor shortages, especially in rural and aging communities.
- Population growth and aging Americans are increasing the need for specialized care.
- International medical staffing firms are helping bridge cultural and licensing barriers.
- Sponsorship visas like EB-3, H-1B, and TN (for eligible countries) are more accessible than ever.
Can You Work in the U.S. Without NCLEX in 2025?
The answer is yes — but with conditions.
Many hospitals and long-term care facilities in the U.S. will hire foreign-educated nurses on a conditional basis, as long as:
- You hold a recognized international nursing qualification (such as a B.Sc. in Nursing or its equivalent).
- You agree to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam within a specified time period after arrival (usually within 6–12 months).
- You enroll in state-required credential evaluation programs, like CGFNS or FCCPT.
Miriam’s employer, for example, allowed her to start clinical work under supervision while she completed her NCLEX prep. Once she passes, she’ll gain full licensure and be eligible for permanent staff promotion — with bonuses included.
How Much Can You Really Earn as a Foreign Nurse in the U.S. in 2025?
Base salaries for foreign nurses vary depending on:
- Location: California, New York, and Washington tend to offer the highest pay.
- Experience level: Advanced practice nurses (APRNs) earn more.
- Shift preferences: Night shifts, weekends, and rural assignments often come with premium rates.
Here’s a sample breakdown of what’s possible:
|
Role |
Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Notes |
|
Registered Nurse (RN) |
$110,000 – $145,000 |
With NCLEX, full license |
|
Specialized ICU Nurse |
$180,000 – $220,000 |
Critical care experience required |
|
Travel Nurse (Contract) |
$8,000 – $12,000/month |
Often with free housing |
|
Supervisory Roles |
$230,000 – $250,000+ |
Senior level, often post-NCLEX |
|
Conditional Hire (Pre-NCLEX) |
$70,000 – $90,000/year |
With NCLEX target set post-hire |
Top U.S. Employers Hiring Foreign Nurses in 2025
- HCA Healthcare (nationwide)
- Cleveland Clinic (Ohio and Florida)
- Banner Health (Arizona and Western states)
- AdventHealth (Florida, Georgia, Texas)
- Kaiser Permanente (California and Northwest)
These organizations often partner with licensed international recruiters and offer:
- Visa sponsorship (EB-3, H-1B, or TN)
- Relocation allowances
- Paid training programs and NCLEX coaching
- Sign-on bonuses up to $30,000
How to Apply for These Jobs
If you’re a foreign-trained nurse and want to work in the U.S. in 2025, here’s a step-by-step process:
- Credential Evaluation: Start with CGFNS or other credentialing bodies approved by U.S. state boards.
- Find a Sponsor: Use platforms like O’Grady Peyton, Avant Healthcare, or Conexus MedStaff — or apply directly to hospitals.
- Pass the English Test: TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required.
- Apply for a Visa: Most use the EB-3 employment-based immigrant visa, which offers permanent residency.
- Prepare for NCLEX (Optional Before Arrival): Many programs will train you in the U.S. post-arrival.
A Word of Caution: Avoid Scams
With so many foreign nurses eager to relocate, fake recruiters have become more common. Protect yourself by:
- Verifying recruiters on the U.S. Department of State’s visa sponsor list
- Avoiding offers that demand upfront payments for “processing”
- Asking for U.S. Department of Labor job order documents
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re already licensed or just starting out, 2025 is shaping up to be the best year yet for foreign-trained nurses seeking employment in the United States.
The combination of competitive salaries, visa support, and flexible NCLEX requirements means nurses from around the world — just like Miriam — are finally seeing their American dream take shape.
If you’re ready to start, research reputable agencies, prepare your documents, and act now — because these high-paying roles are filling fast.
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