If you’re a registered nurse considering relocating to the United States, the EB-3 visa is an important term you’ll want to know. The EB-3 visa, or Employment-Based Immigration: Third Preference Visa, is often referred to as the “green card” visa. It is one of the most common pathways nurses take to work and live in the United States.
What Is an EB-3 Visa?
The EB-3 visa is a permanent residency visa designed for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers. For nurses, this visa offers a stable pathway to live and work in the US permanently. The process involves securing an employment offer from a US employer who will then sponsor your visa application.
Who Qualifies for the EB-3 Visa?
To qualify for the EB-3 visa as a nurse, you must meet these requirements:
- Skilled Worker Requirement: As a nurse, you need to have a nursing degree and at least two years of experience in your field. This positions you under the “skilled worker” category.
- Unfilled Position: The job market in the U.S. must demonstrate a need for your position. For nurses, this is currently demonstrated by the widespread nursing shortage.
- Sponsorship: You must have a US employer willing to file an I-140 petition on your behalf, proving they will employ you and pay your salary once you arrive in the US.
- State Licensure Requirement: You must be a registered nurse in the state where you intend to work. This means you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam and potentially obtain additional state-specific licensing. Don’t worry – Interstaff helps each nurse obtain the correct license!
Steps to Apply for the EB-3 Visa
Step 1: Educational and Licensing Requirements
You must graduate from a recognized Registered Nursing (RN) program in your home country and become licensed as an RN. Additionally, you should have at least a year of work experience in a qualifying hospital setting and accepted unit. Please email recruiting@interstaffinc.com if you have any questions about our accepted specialties and hospital requirements!
Step 2: English Language Proficiency
Passing an English language exam such as the TOEFL iBT or IELTS is essential to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in a professional setting.
Step 3: State Licensing
Since there is no national nursing license in the U.S., you need to obtain a nursing license in the state where you plan to work. This begins with passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and meeting other state-specific requirements.
After passing your exams, you will need to obtain a VisaScreen certificate. This certification verifies your education, training, licensing, and English proficiency.
Step 4: Finding an Employer
Secure a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your EB-3 US visa for nurses. Be careful in selecting employers or recruitment agencies, since there are many scams out there. If you have joined Interstaff, we walk you through every step of this process, beginning at step 1 above.
Step 5: Filing the I-140 Petition
Your employer will file the I-140 petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition submission gives you your “priority date,” which will dictate when your visa is processed.
Step 6: Consular Processing
If your I-140 petition is approved, your case will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) and then to the US consulate or embassy in your home country for final processing, including medical exams and interviews. After your embassy interview, it will soon be time to fly to the US!
Benefits of the EB-3 Visa
The EB-3 visa offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive option for nurses:
- Permanent Residency
The EB-3 visa grants you and your immediate family permanent residency in the U.S., providing a stable future and the opportunity to apply for citizenship eventually.
- Employment Stability
As an EB-3 visa holder, you have the freedom to work for your sponsoring employer and, after getting your green card, change jobs without jeopardizing your residency status.
- Family Inclusion
The EB-3 US visa for nurses allows your spouse and children to accompany you to the U.S. They will also obtain green cards, and your children will attend US schools as residents.
- Professional Growth
Working in the U.S. opens up numerous opportunities for professional development, access to advanced medical training, and potential career advancement.
Beginning the Steps
The EB-3 visa offers a viable pathway for nurses seeking to advance their careers and live permanently in the United States. By meeting the eligibility criteria, following the application steps, and understanding the benefits, you can make informed decisions and increase your chances of a successful move.
If you are ready to take the next step towards securing your EB-3 visa, start by reaching out to us here at Interstaff! Whether you’ve passed exams already, or are studying while you gather your documents, we are ready to assist you. Email us at recruiting@interstaffinc.com, or submit an application, today.