The short answer
Registered nurses most often come on an EB-3 green card, because nursing is a shortage occupation, or on a TN visa if they are Canadian or Mexican. H-1B is less common for nurses.
What to know
- EB-3: an employer sponsors you. The wait depends on your country's line in the Visa Bulletin.
- You usually need a nursing license, a language test and a screening certificate before getting the visa.
- TN: for Canadian and Mexican nurses with a job offer.
- J-1: some training and exchange programs. Check the rules.
For the exact rules, forms and fees, see USCIS.
Visa Status is an unofficial site. This is general information in plain words, not legal advice. Rules, fees and forms change, so check the official website and your own papers. Written October 2026.