H-1B & EB-3 Visas for Healthcare: A Guide for Hospitals Hiring International Nurses

The U.S. healthcare system continues to experience an acute workforce shortage, particularly in nursing and specialized medical professions. With demand outpacing supply, many hospitals and healthcare organizations are turning to international recruitment to bridge staffing gaps. However, navigating U.S. work visas for medical professionals can be complex.

Two primary visa pathways allow international healthcare workers to practice in the U.S.: the H-1B visa and the EB-3 visa. This article breaks down their key differences, eligibility criteria, and how PRS Global streamlines the process for healthcare employers.

H-1B Visa for Healthcare Workers: Who Qualifies?

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations.

Key Requirements:

• • The position must require a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field.
  • The candidate must possess the necessary degree or equivalent qualifications.
  • The employer must prove that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect U.S. workers.

Is the H-1B Visa Suitable for Nurses?

While H-1B visas are commonly used for tech and engineering professionals, they can also apply to highly specialized nursing roles, such as:

• • Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs)
  • Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)
  • Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
  • Physical Therapists (PTs)

However, general RN roles typically do not qualify for H-1B status since they do not always require a bachelor’s degree.

Challenges of the H-1B Process:

• • Visa cap: Only 65,000 H-1B visas are issued annually, with 20,000 additional visas for foreign professionals who graduate with a master’s degree or doctorate from a U.S. institution of higher learning, making the lottery highly competitive.
  • Application timeline: The filing period begins each April, with approvals taking months.

EB-3 Visa for Nurses: A Permanent Solution

The EB-3 visa is an employment-based green card for skilled and unskilled workers, making it a stronger option for international nurses seeking long-term employment in the U.S.

Who Qualifies for an EB-3 Visa?

• • Registered Nurses (RNs) (since the profession is designated as a Schedule A shortage occupation)
  • Medical Technologists & Lab Scientists
  • Certain allied healthcare professionals

Benefits of the EB-3 Visa:

• • Provides permanent residency (Green Card)
  • No lottery system; visas are available year-round
  • A direct solution for hospitals facing long-term workforce shortages

Challenges of the EB-3 Process:

• • Processing times vary (can take months to years based on country quotas).
  • Requires employer sponsorship and labor certification.

How PRS Global Simplifies International Healthcare Hiring

Navigating U.S. work visas for medical professionals can be overwhelming.

PRS Global helps hospitals and healthcare facilities recruit, sponsor, and onboard international nurses by handling:

• • Visa sponsorship & application management
  • Compliance with labor certification requirements
  • Ongoing support for both employers and healthcare professionals

By partnering with PRS Global, healthcare organizations can access a streamlined, ethical, and efficient process for hiring top international talent while ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

Partnering With the Best Provider for Your Visa

Need help navigating the process? PRS Global is here to support your recruitment strategy. Contact us today to learn how we can help you hire top international nurses to improve your workforce strategy.