Thinking about taking your nursing career to the United States? Exciting choice! The demand for registered nurses in the U.S. is strong, and there are several visa options that make it possible. But here’s the catch: each visa comes with its own pros and cons, and your country of birth can make a huge difference in how long it takes to secure permanent residency.
Let’s break down the most common visa options for nurses and what you need to know before making the leap.
Nursing Visa Options: Pros and Cons
| Visa Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| TN Visa (NAFTA/USMCA) |
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| H-1B Visa |
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| EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Green Card) |
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Why Country of Birth Matters
Your birthplace has nothing to do with your skill as a nurse—but in U.S. immigration, it has everything to do with how fast you get a green card.
According to the September 2025 Visa Bulletin:
Nurses born in India face some of the longest delays, sometimes measured in decades.
Nurses from Canada, Mexico, and many other countries may have little to no backlog, but it can still take a couple years.
It’s essential to check the Visa Bulletin regularly to see where your country stands before making big career decisions.
So… Which Path Is Best for You?
If you’re a Canadian or Mexican nurse, the TN visa is the clear front-runner. It’s fast, renewable, and lets you see if the U.S. is the right fit before making a permanent move. Many employers will later offer green card sponsorship once you’ve settled in.
If you’re from another country, the EB-3 visa may be your only direct option, but be prepared for possible wait times.
Final Thoughts
Immigrating as a nurse isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your personal goals, your family situation, and your country of birth all affect which visa is the smartest choice for you.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
At IntelliStaff Medical, we specialize in cross-border TN visa nursing for Canadian and Mexican citizens. We’ll help you find the right position, guide you through the paperwork, and even provide border coaching to make the process smooth. From start to finish, IntelliStaff Medical is with you every step of the way.
Ready to explore your U.S. nursing journey? Let’s make it happen together.
