Pathways for Nurses with BSN or ADN to Apply for Permanent Residency in the U.S.

Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) have several avenues to obtain permanent residency in the United States (U.S.). Here’s a detailed guide on the different paths available:

Main Options for Nurses to Apply for Permanent Residency

1. Employment-Based Immigration (EB-3 Visa)

The EB-3 category is the most common route for foreign-educated nurses interested in becoming permanent residents.

Eligibility: Nurses must have a job offer from a U.S. employer. Requirements: Nursing license in the state where employment is intended. PASS the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses). An approved PERM Labor Certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, proving no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.

2. Special Immigrant Status (EB-4 Visa)

This visa is specifically for certain nurses with a unique qualification or contribution to the U.S.

Eligibility: Nurses who have been employed in a specific capacity with a U.S. employer. Requirements: Employment with a U.S. employer. Meeting specific criteria that qualify as a special immigrant.

3. Family-Sponsored Immigration

Nurses can also secure permanent residency through a relative in the U.S.

Eligibility: Close family members like a spouse, parent, or sibling must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. Requirements: Qualifying family relationship. Filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, by the sponsoring family member.

4. Diversity Visa Lottery

A less common but still viable pathway for certain nurses from countries with low immigration rates.

Eligibility: Nurses from specific countries with fewer H-1B visas granted can apply through the Diversity Visa Lottery. Requirements: Evidence of education and work experience. Randomly selected applicants can apply for permanent residency.

5. Nurse Practitioners and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs)

For nurses with advanced degrees, such as Nurse Practitioners, there may be additional pathways offering higher priority in visa categories.

Additional Considerations

State Licensure

To practice nursing in the U.S., obtaining licensure in the desired state is essential. This typically includes passing the NCLEX-RN and meeting state-specific requirements.

Visa Processing

Once the employment-based petition is approved, nurses can apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or, if already in the U.S., adjust their status.

Backlogs and Processing Times

The green card process is known for its lengthy wait times, especially for countries with high demand.

Conclusion

Nurses in the U.S. can effectively navigate the intricate immigration process to achieve permanent residency. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help streamline this process and ensure compliance with all necessary steps.

Keywords: permanent residency, BSN, ADN