Top 20 U.S. Hospitals Sponsoring Nurses in 2025

For nurses worldwide, working in the United States offers a chance to earn competitive salaries, gain global experience, and build a stable career. In 2025, U.S. hospitals face a critical shortage of nurses, projected to reach a deficit of 200,000 to 450,000 by the end of the year. This gap has led many top hospitals to sponsor visas, particularly EB-3 and H-1B, to hire international nurses, including those from Nigeria and other countries.

These visas allow nurses to work legally in the U.S., often with a path to permanent residency. This article highlights the top 20 U.S. hospitals likely to sponsor nurses in 2025, based on their reputation, staffing needs, and visa sponsorship trends. Written in simple language, it explains why these hospitals are hiring, the types of nursing jobs available, and how to apply. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced nurse, this guide will help you pursue your American dream.

Why U.S. Hospitals Are Sponsoring Nurses in 2025

The U.S. healthcare system is under pressure. An aging population, rising chronic diseases, and nurse burnout are driving a massive demand for healthcare workers. By 2025, the U.S. could face a shortage of up to 450,000 registered nurses (RNs), a 10-20% gap in direct patient care. Burnout, with 41% of nurses reporting disengagement, and retirements further widen this gap. Many hospitals can’t find enough local nurses, especially in rural or high-demand areas like California and Georgia.

To address this, hospitals are turning to international nurses, who bring skills, cultural diversity, and dedication. In 2022, 32% of U.S. hospitals hired foreign-educated nurses, up from 16% in 2010, with about 500,000 immigrant nurses working in the U.S. Sponsoring visas like the EB-3, which offers permanent residency, or the H-1B for specialized roles, helps hospitals fill critical roles. For international nurses, this means opportunities to earn $70,000 to $120,000 annually while working in world-class facilities.

What Is Visa Sponsorship for Nurses?

Visa sponsorship means a U.S. hospital supports a foreign nurse’s visa application, enabling them to work legally. The hospital handles paperwork, proves no local nurses are available, and often covers fees. The EB-3 visa, ideal for nurses, requires a job offer and a PERM labor certification, granting a green card for permanent residency. The H-1B visa, for specialized roles like nurse practitioners, requires a bachelor’s degree and is more competitive, with only 65,000 visas issued yearly.

Sponsorship is a win-win. Hospitals gain skilled nurses, while nurses access high-paying jobs and a chance to live in the U.S. For Nigerians, who often have strong English skills and rigorous nursing training, sponsorship is particularly accessible, especially for EB-3 roles.

Types of Nursing Jobs with Sponsorship

Hospitals sponsor various nursing roles, from entry-level to specialized, depending on their needs. Most don’t require prior U.S. experience, as hospitals provide training. Common roles include:

Registered Nurse (RN)

RNs provide patient care, administer medications, and coordinate treatments in hospital wards, ICUs, or emergency rooms. No U.S. experience is needed, but you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and hold a nursing degree or diploma. EB-3 sponsorship is common, with salaries starting at $70,000.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

LPNs assist RNs with basic care, like monitoring vitals or helping patients with daily tasks. This role requires less training and is often sponsored via EB-3 visas, especially in nursing homes or rural hospitals. Pay ranges from $40,000 to $60,000.

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

NPs diagnose and treat patients, often in specialized areas like pediatrics or oncology. Requiring a master’s degree, NPs qualify for H-1B visas, earning $100,000 or more. Demand for NPs is projected to grow 46% by 2033.

Specialty Nurses

Specialty roles, like ICU, labor and delivery, or oncology nurses, are in high demand. These often require additional certifications but attract EB-3 or H-1B sponsorship due to shortages. Salaries can reach $90,000 or higher.

These roles suit nurses with varying experience levels, making sponsorship accessible for both new and seasoned professionals.

Top 20 U.S. Hospitals Sponsoring Nurses in 2025

The following hospitals are among the top U.S. facilities likely to sponsor nurses in 2025, based on their ranking in the 2024-2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals Honor Roll, their staffing needs, and industry trends in hiring international nurses. Many are located in high-demand states like California, Texas, and New York, where nursing shortages are acute. While not all explicitly advertise visa sponsorship, their size, reputation, and reliance on foreign nurses make them strong candidates.

1. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN)

Mayo Clinic, ranked No. 1 by U.S. News, excels in multiple specialties and encourages international nurses to apply, offering EB-3 and TN visa sponsorship. It hires RNs for ICU, oncology, and surgical units, with salaries around $80,000. Mayo’s dedicated support for visa processes makes it a top choice.

2. Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH)

No. 2 globally per Newsweek, Cleveland Clinic sponsors EB-3 and H-1B visas for RNs and NPs in cardiology and oncology. With a high-performing rating in 19 specialties, it needs nurses to maintain excellence. Salaries start at $75,000.

3. Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD)

A global top-10 hospital, Johns Hopkins sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in pediatrics and trauma. Its focus on research and patient care drives demand for international nurses, with pay averaging $85,000.

4. Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA)

This Honor Roll hospital sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in critical care and labor delivery. Known for innovation, it hires international nurses to address shortages, offering $80,000 to $100,000.

5. UCLA Medical Center (Los Angeles, CA)

In high-demand California, UCLA sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs and LPNs in emergency and surgical units. With RN salaries averaging $124,000, it’s a prime destination for nurses.

6. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles, CA)

Cedars-Sinai, ranked highly in 11 specialties, sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in cardiology and orthopedics. Its location in a shortage-prone state ensures ongoing hiring, with salaries around $90,000.

7. New York-Presbyterian Hospital (New York, NY)

This Honor Roll hospital sponsors EB-3 and H-1B visas for RNs and NPs in oncology and ICU. New York’s high demand supports frequent sponsorship, with pay starting at $85,000.

8. Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Chicago, IL)

Northwestern sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in trauma and pediatrics. Its high-performing status in 19 specialties fuels nurse hiring, with salaries around $80,000.

9. Hospitals of the University of Pennsylvania-Penn Presbyterian (Philadelphia, PA)

This hospital sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in cardiology and neurology. Ranked in 11 specialties, it seeks international nurses, offering $75,000 to $95,000.

10. NYU Langone Hospitals (New York, NY)

NYU Langone sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in surgical and emergency units. Its urban location and shortage issues drive sponsorship, with salaries starting at $90,000.

11. Stanford Health Care (Palo Alto, CA)

Stanford sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in oncology and critical care. California’s high salaries, averaging $124,000, make it attractive for nurses.

12. Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Boston, MA)

Ranked in 12 specialties, Brigham sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in obstetrics and cancer care. Salaries range from $80,000 to $100,000, with strong visa support.

13. Mount Sinai Hospital (New York, NY)

Mount Sinai sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in ICU and pediatrics. New York’s nursing shortage ensures regular hiring, with pay around $85,000.

14. UCSF Medical Center (San Francisco, CA)

UCSF sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in neurology and surgical units. California’s demand supports sponsorship, with salaries averaging $120,000.

15. Duke University Hospital (Durham, NC)

Duke sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in cardiology and oncology. Ranked in 11 specialties, it offers $70,000 to $90,000 and robust visa assistance.

16. Rush University Medical Center (Chicago, IL)

Rush sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in emergency and trauma. Its high-performing status drives nurse hiring, with salaries around $80,000.

17. UC San Diego Health (La Jolla, CA)

This hospital sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in critical care and obstetrics. California’s shortage makes it a key sponsor, with pay starting at $100,000.

18. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health (Manhasset, NY)

Northwell sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in surgical and ICU units. New York’s demand supports hiring, with salaries around $85,000.

19. Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center (Los Angeles, CA)

Another UCLA facility, it sponsors EB-3 visas for RNs in trauma and pediatrics. High salaries, around $120,000, attract international nurses.

20. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY)

This cancer-focused hospital sponsors EB-3 and H-1B visas for RNs and NPs in oncology. With 260 H-1B applications in 2024, it’s a leader in sponsorship, offering $90,000 to $120,000.

These hospitals, many on the U.S. News Honor Roll, are leaders in healthcare and likely to sponsor nurses due to their size, staffing needs, and history of hiring international talent.

Why These Hospitals Sponsor Nurses

These hospitals sponsor nurses because they operate in high-demand regions or specialize in complex care, requiring large nursing staffs. For example, California hospitals like UCLA and UCSF face severe shortages, with a projected 8% deficit by 2036. Urban centers like New York and Chicago also need more nurses than local supply provides. Additionally, their high rankings reflect advanced care, which demands skilled RNs and NPs, often sourced globally.

Visa freezes, like the 2024 pause on EB-3 processing, highlight the urgency. The American Association of International Healthcare Recruitment urges Congress to act, as hospitals rely on foreign nurses to maintain safe staffing. These top hospitals, with resources and experience, are well-positioned to navigate visa challenges and sponsor nurses.

Who Qualifies for Sponsored Nursing Jobs?

To qualify for EB-3 sponsorship, nurses need a nursing degree or diploma, a passing NCLEX-RN score, and a job offer. No U.S. experience is required, but some states mandate English proficiency tests like IELTS. For H-1B visas, NPs or specialty nurses need a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant certifications.

Nigerians and other international nurses often excel due to rigorous training and English fluency. A clean background check and valid credentials are essential. Hospitals prioritize reliability and a willingness to learn, making these jobs accessible even for new graduates.

How to Apply for Sponsored Nursing Jobs

Securing a sponsored job requires a strategic approach. Here’s how to start:

Research High-Demand Areas

Focus on states like California, New York, or Texas, where shortages are severe. Rural areas also need nurses, offering less competition. Check hospital career pages, like Mayo Clinic’s, for visa sponsorship details.

Use Job Boards and Agencies

Platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, or MyVisaJobs list sponsored nursing jobs. Search terms like “EB-3 nurse sponsorship” or “H-1B RN jobs.” Recruitment agencies like ClearLite or Mos Therapy specialize in placing international nurses, assisting with NCLEX and visas.

Network and Connect

Join LinkedIn groups for international nurses or forums like Reddit’s r/nursing. Connect with Nigerian nurses in the U.S. for referrals. Attend virtual job fairs hosted by hospitals like Cleveland Clinic. Networking can uncover unadvertised roles.

Contact Hospitals Directly

Email or call hospital HR departments, like those at Johns Hopkins or Cedars-Sinai, to ask about sponsorship. Be professional and follow up after a week. Many hospitals don’t list sponsorship openly but consider it for strong candidates.

Prepare a Strong Application

Create a one-page resume listing your nursing education, NCLEX status, and any experience, even internships. A cover letter should explain your passion for U.S. nursing and mention visa sponsorship. For interviews, practice questions like “Why choose our hospital?” or “How do you handle stress?” Ensure a stable internet connection for virtual interviews and dress professionally.

Navigating the Visa Process

Once hired, the hospital leads the visa process. For EB-3, they file a PERM certification, which takes six months to a year, followed by an I-140 petition with USCIS. You provide a passport, NCLEX results, and photos. An embassy interview, such as in Lagos for Nigerians, may be required. Processing can take one to three years due to backlogs, especially for high-demand countries.

H-1B visas involve a lottery, with petitions filed after selection. Costs, like the $780 I-129 fee, are typically employer-covered, but you may pay for travel or licensing. Clarify fee responsibilities upfront.

Challenges and Solutions

The visa process is slow, with EB-3 backlogs delaying entry. Start early and track USCIS updates. Financial costs, like travel or initial housing, can be high. Save in advance or ask about relocation support. Adjusting to U.S. hospital culture, like fast-paced shifts, may feel new. Join nurse communities, like National Nurses United, for support.

Finding a sponsoring hospital is tough, as some prioritize local hires. Apply to multiple hospitals and use agencies to increase chances. If rejected, seek feedback to improve your application.

Tips for Success in U.S. Nursing

To thrive, be punctual and follow protocols, like proper medication administration or patient charting. Small efforts, like comforting patients, show dedication. Take hospital training, like ACLS certification, to boost skills. Salaries range from $70,000 for RNs to $120,000 for NPs, but living costs in cities like Los Angeles are high. Budget wisely and save regularly.

U.S. Hospital Work Culture

U.S. hospitals emphasize teamwork and communication. Speak clearly, even with basic English, and ask for clarification if needed. Initiative, like volunteering for shifts, earns respect. Nursing is demanding, with long shifts and emotional stress. Prioritize self-care, like rest and healthy eating, to avoid burnout.

Legal and Ethical Duties

Follow hospital policies, like maintaining patient confidentiality or reporting errors. Adhere to safety standards, such as proper equipment sterilization. Ethical care, like respecting patient dignity, is critical. Breaking rules risks your job or visa, so act with integrity.

Long-Term Opportunities

Sponsored nursing jobs can lead to bigger roles. RNs may become charge nurses, while NPs can specialize in high-demand fields like cardiology. EB-3 nurses can apply for citizenship after five years. Some start private practices or teach nursing, leveraging U.S. experience. Community colleges offer affordable courses to upskill.

Resources for International Nurses

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) provides NCLEX guidance, while USCIS.gov details visa processes. Apps like Babbel improve English if needed. LinkedIn groups for Nigerian nurses or forums like AllNurses share tips. Immigrant centers in the U.S. offer job and cultural support.

Common Myths About Nurse Sponsorship

Some believe only experienced nurses qualify for sponsorship. Entry-level RNs with NCLEX certification are eligible for EB-3 visas. Others think sponsorship is too costly. Hospitals often cover fees, and travel costs are manageable with planning. Finally, some assume the process is too complex. With hospital and agency support, it’s achievable.

Success Stories

Chinwe, a Nigerian nurse, secured an EB-3 visa with UCLA Medical Center in 2024. After passing the NCLEX, she earns $90,000 as an ICU RN and plans to specialize in critical care. Her agency, ClearLite, guided her application.

Maria, from the Philippines, joined Mayo Clinic on an EB-3 visa in 2023. With no U.S. experience, she trained as an oncology RN, earning $80,000. Networking on LinkedIn helped her land the role. These stories show persistence pays off.

Final Thoughts on Nursing Sponsorship in 2025

The U.S. nursing shortage creates opportunities for international nurses, with top hospitals like Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and UCLA sponsoring EB-3 and H-1B visas. These facilities offer competitive salaries, training, and a path to permanent residency. By researching hospitals, using job boards, and preparing strong applications, you can secure a sponsored role. The journey requires patience, but the reward—a fulfilling career in the U.S.—is worth it. Start today by exploring hospital careers or contacting agencies. Your skills are needed, and your American dream awaits.