Simplifying the Green Card Journey for Nurses: A Step-by-Step Guide to the EB-3 Visa Process and Associated Fees

Navigating the intricate visa processes for foreign nurses aiming to work in the United States is crucial for a successful career transition. Therefore, the EB-3 visa stands out as a viable option, offering a route to permanent residency. This comprehensive guide is tailored to assist foreign nurses in understanding and navigating the EB-3 visa process, providing step-by-step insights and advice for the EB-3 Visa Process for International Nurses.

The Unique Position of International Nurses

The Demand in the U.S.

Recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor as a Schedule A shortage occupation, registered nurses find themselves in a favorable position for immigration. Additionally, this demand not only underscores the essential contributions nurses make to the healthcare sector but also spotlights the vast opportunities available in the U.S.

Advantages of the EB-3 Visa

The EB-3 visa category offers a suitable pathway for international nurses seeking U.S. permanent residency. Nonetheless, this visa allows U.S. employers to sponsor international nurses without the exhaustive PERM labor certification process.

Key Steps Toward Acquiring a Green Card

1. Qualifications and Examinations

• Education and Licensing: Begin with obtaining a nursing degree and securing RN licensure in your home country.
• English and Professional Exams: Following that, successfully pass an English language proficiency test and the NCLEX examination.

2. Employment Sponsorship and Visa Application

The journey progresses with securing a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor a Green Card, followed by the filing of an I-140 petition with USCIS.

3. State Licensure and VisaScreen Certification

Achieve RN licensure in the intended state of work and obtain a VisaScreen Certificate to verify your credentials meet U.S. healthcare standards.

4. Finalizing Immigration Status

The concluding phase involves either adjusting your status to a lawful permanent resident if you are already in the U.S. or applying for an immigrant visa if abroad, upon the approval of the I-140 petition and currency of the priority date.

Understanding the EB-3 Visa

Meanwhile, understanding and navigating the intricate visa processes for foreign nurses aiming to work in the United States is crucial for a successful career transition. This guide focuses on clarifying the EB-3 visa process, offering step-by-step insights and practical advice for international nurses seeking permanent residency through the EB-3 visa pathway.

Application Process and Fees

• I-140 Visa Petition: This step, initiated by the sponsoring employer, bypasses the PERM certification due to the "Schedule A" classification. Note that even under Schedule A, the employer must still obtain a prevailing-wage determination and post a 30-day Notice of Filing — 'no PERM' means no full labor-market test, not an instant process.
• Adjust Status or Immigrant Visa Application: Depending on location, either adjust your status within the U.S. or apply for an immigrant visa abroad.

EB-3 Visa Fees

• I-140 filing fee: $715 base, typically covered by the employer (plus a $600 Asylum Program Fee paid by the employer; $300 for small employers, $0 for nonprofits).
• Optional premium processing: $2,965 for a decision within 15 business days.
• Adjustment of status (I-485): $1,440 for applicants within the U.S. (the separate biometrics fee was eliminated in 2024).
• DS-260 processing fee: $325, plus a $120 affidavit-of-support fee for applicants abroad.

USCIS and State Department fees change — these figures are current as of August 2026. Always confirm the latest amounts on the USCIS fee schedule (Form G-1055) before relying on them.

Conclusion: Your Path to U.S. Permanent Residency

The path to U.S. permanent residency via the EB-3 visa offers international nurses a structured route, reflecting the critical need for their skills.

Green card · Originally published May 2024 · Fees and rules change — verify current figures before you rely on them.