Introduction
Because of an ageing population, rising health demands, and continuous improvements in medical technology, the healthcare sector in the US is expanding quickly. This is a great chance for professionals from other countries. A lot of U.S. healthcare companies sponsor visas for eligible foreign workers since there are constant shortages in a number of healthcare positions. It is anticipated that demand would continue to increase in 2025, especially for specialised physician, allied health, and nursing positions.
Why the U.S. Needs International Healthcare Workers
Skilled labour has long been in short supply in the U.S. healthcare system, particularly in neglected and rural areas. The U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics projects that employment in healthcare vocations will increase by 13% between 2021 and 2031, creating around 2 million new jobs. The following are some of the main causes of the demand for international healthcare workers:
- Shortage of Nurses and Physicians
- Retiring Workforce
- Population Growth and Aging
- Expansion of Healthcare Facilities
- Specialty Skills Gaps
When local hiring pools are unable to fulfil demand, visa sponsorship becomes necessary, enabling clinics and hospitals to hire people from abroad.
Top Healthcare Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship in 2025
1. Registered Nurses (RN)
Visa Options: H-1B, TN (for Canadian/Mexican), EB-3 Green Card
Requirements: NCLEX-RN exam, BSN or equivalent degree, English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL)
Salary: $65,000–$100,000/year
High Demand States: Texas, California, Florida, New York
The most sought-after professionals are registered nurses. In order to hire nurses from the Philippines, India, Nigeria, and other nations, many hospitals actively collaborate with international recruitment firms.
2. Physicians and Surgeons
Visa Options: H-1B, J-1 (for residency), O-1, EB-2/EB-1 Green Card
Requirements: USMLE certification, ECFMG certification, Residency training in the U.S.
Salary: $150,000–$400,000/year (varies by specialty)
Specialised physicians, such as internal medicine specialists, psychiatrists, and anaesthesiologists, are in great demand, particularly in underprivileged rural areas. After residency, holders of J-1 visas may request a waiver to remain.
3. Medical Technologists/Laboratory Technicians
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-3
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, ASCP or AMT certification
Salary: $55,000–$80,000/year
These specialists are essential to patient care because they do diagnostic testing. Lab technologists, especially those with overseas certifications, are regularly sponsored by U.S. employers.
4. Physical Therapists (PT)
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-2, EB-3
Requirements: Master’s or Doctorate in Physical Therapy, NPTE exam, credential evaluation
Salary: $70,000–$100,000/year
PTs are particularly needed in home health agencies, nursing homes, and rehabilitation facilities.
5. Occupational Therapists (OT)
Visa Options: H-1B, EB-3
Requirements: OT degree, NBCOT certification, licensing exam
Salary: $65,000–$95,000/year
The need for occupational therapists (OTs) is rising among the aged and disabled, as they assist patients in regaining the skills necessary for everyday living.
6. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)
Visa Options: EB-3 (Unskilled Worker Green Card)
Requirements: CNA certification, English language skills
Salary: $28,000–$45,000/year
Due to labour shortages, many long-term care institutions sponsor CNAs under EB-3 visas, even though they are not eligible for H-1B.
Types of Visa Sponsorship for Healthcare Workers
1. H-1B Visa
For workers in specialty occupations. Requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Highly competitive with an annual cap.
2. EB-3 Visa (Green Card)
For skilled and unskilled workers. Many nurses and CNAs use this route.
3. EB-2 Visa (Green Card)
For advanced degree holders or those with exceptional ability. Often used by physicians and therapists.
4. J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor)
For medical residents or fellows. Requires return to home country unless a waiver is granted
5. O-1 Visa
For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, or medicine.
How to Get a Healthcare Job with Sponsorship
1. Credential Evaluation
Ensure your education and training meet U.S. standards. Use agencies like CGFNS, FCCPT, or ECFMG depending on your profession.
2. Licensing and Exams
Take required exams like NCLEX (for nurses), USMLE (for doctors), or NPTE (for PTs).
3. Apply to Employers that Sponsor Visas
Search on job boards and hospital websites that mention “visa sponsorship available.”
4. Work with Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like Avant Healthcare, MedPro International, and O’Grady Peyton specialize in international healthcare placements.
5. Prepare Your Immigration Documents
Work with an immigration lawyer or employer’s HR department to ensure proper filing and processing.
Top Employers Offering Sponsorship in 2025
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- Kaiser Permanente
- NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
- HCA Healthcare
- MedPro International
- Encompass Health
- Kindred Healthcare
These healthcare systems have organised sponsorship programs and regularly hire foreign workers.
Conclusion
In 2025, American healthcare positions remain a ray of hope for experts from around the world. People from all around the world can find fulfilling employment and get visa sponsorship if they have the necessary credentials, licenses, and persistence. Whether you’re a Nigerian therapist, an Indian doctor, or a nurse from the Philippines, the American healthcare system is becoming more receptive to hiring qualified individuals to cover urgent shortages