Every year, thousands of healthcare facilities in the United States look for qualified nurse aides to support their growing patient needs. As the demand increases, many employers are now open to hiring skilled foreigners through visa sponsorship programs. If you are an international job seeker looking for a healthcare job in the USA, becoming a nurse aide could be a reliable path to both employment and legal work authorization.
A nurse aide plays a vital role in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and private residences. They assist with basic care, monitor patient conditions, and provide emotional support to those in need. Due to the aging population and staffing shortages, healthcare employers in the USA are actively recruiting foreigners who are willing to work and grow in this profession. Visa sponsorship jobs in this sector are becoming more common, especially for those who are eligible for programs like EB-3, H-2B, and other employer-sponsored visas.
This guide will help you understand the process of getting hired as a nurse aide in the United States, the qualifications required, how much you can earn, the states offering the best pay, companies hiring foreigners, and how to apply for visa-sponsored jobs. Whether you are in Nigeria, India, Kenya, the Philippines, or anywhere else, the opportunity is open—if you meet the requirements and know where to look.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
Getting started as a nurse aide in the USA doesn’t always require a university degree. However, you must meet some key requirements to be eligible for both the job and visa sponsorship. For starters, most employers require a high school certificate or equivalent and completion of a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program. These programs often take between 4 to 12 weeks and are followed by a competency exam.
Once certified, you become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), which boosts your chances of getting hired. While experience helps, many employers are open to entry-level nurse aides as long as you can demonstrate basic skills like good communication, compassion, time management, and attention to detail. You must also be physically fit, as the job involves helping patients with movement, hygiene, and mobility tasks.
Language proficiency is another key requirement. You need to understand and speak English well, especially if you’re applying from a non-English-speaking country. Many employers will ask for evidence of your communication skills during interviews. In some cases, passing an English language test may also be necessary, especially for visa processing.
Foreigners must also be clear of any criminal records and meet the health screening requirements in the USA. Most states require background checks and TB tests before a nurse aide can begin work in a medical facility. Understanding the culture of care in the US healthcare system is also important—this includes respecting patient privacy, following medical instructions carefully, and documenting daily activities as instructed.
Although the role is considered entry-level, it requires a high level of commitment and discipline. If you’re planning to apply from outside the US, having a completed CNA certificate from your home country—or being ready to enroll in training as soon as you arrive—will place you ahead of other international applicants. Also, applying through legitimate staffing agencies or employer channels increases your chances of success.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
Pay for nurse aides in the United States varies greatly depending on the state, city, and healthcare facility you work for. However, some regions consistently offer higher wages due to demand, cost of living, and healthcare policies. If you are considering relocating for a job opportunity with visa sponsorship, targeting areas with higher pay structures can help you plan better and get the most out of your career.
Among the highest-paying states for nurse aides are Alaska, New York, California, Massachusetts, and Washington. In these states, healthcare employers often pay more because of the high cost of living and the shortage of local caregivers. For example, in California and New York, nurse aides can earn an average of $18 to $22 per hour depending on the city and the healthcare facility.
In Alaska, nurse aides working in rural communities often receive additional incentives like housing support, transport allowances, or sign-on bonuses. Hospitals in cities like Anchorage or Fairbanks pay nurse aides more due to difficulty in attracting long-term workers. Visa-sponsored positions in such regions often come with guaranteed contracts and relocation assistance, especially through long-term care facilities.
Massachusetts is another high-paying region, especially in areas like Boston, Worcester, and Springfield. These cities have a dense population of elderly residents and constantly require nurse aides in nursing homes and assisted living centers. For foreigners, getting placed in these cities can mean better salaries and quicker visa processing through well-structured healthcare organizations.
Texas, Florida, and Georgia may not be at the top in terms of hourly pay, but they offer a higher number of job openings and visa-friendly employers. In Texas, for instance, some facilities offer flexible shifts and provide free training for nurse aides with limited experience. Florida, with its large retirement population, consistently ranks among the top states with ongoing recruitment drives for caregivers.
It’s important to note that working in states with high payment structures may also mean stricter licensing requirements. If you’re applying from overseas, be prepared to meet state-specific regulations, including passing the CNA exam in that state. Some employers offer study materials or support to help you meet these requirements upon arrival.
When searching for visa-sponsored nurse aide jobs, prioritize regions that offer not just higher salaries but also better benefits, such as medical insurance, paid time off, and continuing education support. This ensures a better work-life balance and long-term growth as you settle into your new role in the United States.
Salary Expectations for Nurse Aides
One of the key factors job seekers consider when applying for nurse aide roles in the USA is the salary structure. The good news is that nurse aides in America receive fair compensation for their work, and in some regions, the pay is quite competitive—even for entry-level roles. The average hourly wage for a nurse aide in the US ranges from $15 to $22, depending on your location, experience, and employer.
On a monthly basis, this translates to about $2,400 to $3,800. For full-time roles with overtime options, nurse aides can earn upwards of $45,000 per year. Those working in major cities or private facilities sometimes earn more, especially if they hold advanced certifications or speak multiple languages. Working night shifts or weekends can also boost earnings, as many employers offer shift differentials to attract workers during less popular hours.
Foreigners coming in under visa sponsorship programs often receive the same pay as their American counterparts, especially under the EB-3 visa category for skilled and unskilled workers. Employers are required by law to pay fair wages, which are determined based on the prevailing wage rates in each state. So, once you’re hired, you’re entitled to the same rights and benefits as any local employee.
Some employers go beyond just salary. They offer benefit packages that include housing support, transportation allowances, health insurance, and paid vacation. For example, long-term care facilities may offer staff accommodation within the facility or assistance finding affordable housing near the job site. Others may provide bonuses for completing 6-month or 1-year contracts, especially for foreign workers who commit to staying long-term.
Keep in mind that salary also depends on your performance. Nurse aides who consistently receive positive feedback, attend training sessions, and take on additional responsibilities often qualify for salary reviews and promotions. Some even move on to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs) after further training and licensure, increasing their earning potential significantly.
When comparing salary offers from different companies or regions, always look beyond the base pay. Consider total compensation, including benefits, bonuses, and support for immigration-related expenses. A job that pays slightly less but covers your visa fees, exam costs, and housing can end up being more valuable in the long run.
Companies Hiring Nurse Aides in the USA
Many reputable healthcare organizations across the United States are actively hiring nurse aides and offering visa sponsorship to qualified foreign applicants. These employers range from large hospital networks to long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, assisted living homes, and home health agencies. Because the healthcare workforce is under pressure to fill essential roles, these employers often collaborate with immigration attorneys and international staffing agencies to streamline the process for foreign workers.
One of the most active employers hiring foreign nurse aides is Genesis HealthCare. This organization operates numerous nursing homes and rehabilitation centers in different states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. Genesis has a history of sponsoring work visas and provides comprehensive onboarding support for international hires, including guidance on CNA licensing requirements in each state.
HCA Healthcare, which runs more than 180 hospitals and 2,000 care sites across the country, also recruits nurse aides through structured hiring programs. They prioritize compassionate individuals who are ready to grow within the healthcare system. Some of their facilities have partnered with staffing firms that specialize in placing international workers under employment-based green card categories.
Another major employer is Brookdale Senior Living, a company with hundreds of assisted living communities nationwide. Their demand for nurse aides continues to rise, especially in states like Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Brookdale often hires through recruitment agencies that help qualified foreigners secure work visas, relocation support, and state certification upon arrival.
Aveanna Healthcare, which provides in-home care services, is also known for hiring nurse aides, especially those with experience in pediatric or elderly care. Although most of their jobs are filled locally, some regions with high demand are open to hiring foreign nationals on the condition that they meet U.S. healthcare standards and immigration criteria.
Healthcare staffing firms such as MedPro International, Avant Healthcare Professionals, and ADEX Medical Staffing are also key players in helping foreigners get hired legally in the United States. These companies partner directly with hospitals and care homes to sponsor skilled and unskilled workers under EB-3 visas. They manage the visa paperwork and match candidates to suitable openings based on experience, language ability, and regional demand.
When choosing which company to apply to, it’s important to verify that the job offer includes full visa sponsorship, not just an invitation to apply. Some employers will require you to complete licensing exams or short training courses upon arrival. A genuine employer will provide written contracts, a clear job description, and details of your visa type before you proceed with the immigration process.
Always research the employer’s track record, benefits package, salary, and support services for international hires. Working with a well-established company increases your job security, protects you from exploitation, and gives you room for professional growth in the American healthcare system.
Visa Types and Options for Nurse Aides
Foreigners seeking to work as nurse aides in the United States have several visa options. Choosing the right visa category is very important because it determines how long you can stay, whether your family can join you, and what kind of benefits you’ll receive. Most nurse aides working in the U.S. under sponsorship programs are brought in under employment-based immigration pathways.
One of the most common visa options is the EB-3 visa, which is for skilled and unskilled workers. Nurse aide jobs fall under the unskilled category, and this visa allows employers to sponsor foreigners for permanent residency. The EB-3 is an immigrant visa, meaning it can lead to a green card. Employers who use this route must first get a Labor Certification (PERM) approved by the U.S. Department of Labor to show that no American worker is available for the job.
Another option is the H-2B visa, which is a temporary non-immigrant visa. It allows U.S. employers to bring foreign workers for non-agricultural jobs during peak seasons or periods of high demand. While nurse aide roles are not always listed under H-2B, some states have successfully filled short-term caregiver positions through this route, especially in assisted living facilities and private home care. This visa is usually valid for 6–12 months and can be extended up to 3 years.
For nurse aides with formal nursing qualifications or who are studying in the U.S., the F1 visa with Optional Practical Training (OPT) is another possible route. International students who complete CNA or related programs can apply for OPT and work legally for up to 12 months in the healthcare sector. Some employers may decide to offer permanent positions and sponsor you for an EB-3 visa after your OPT ends.
Another less common pathway is through the J-1 visa for cultural exchange and medical internships. While this is mostly used by medical students or those in training programs, some structured care assistant internships may qualify. However, this is temporary and not a long-term employment route unless converted to another visa type.
Visa sponsorship always depends on the employer’s willingness to support your application and ability to meet immigration requirements. A legitimate visa-sponsoring employer will offer you a job contract, cover part or all of the visa fees, and work with immigration lawyers to process the necessary documents. In most cases, visa processing takes several months, especially for immigrant visas like the EB-3. Therefore, patience and proper documentation are key.
Before applying, make sure you understand what each visa offers and confirm that your employer is registered to petition for that specific visa type. Avoid third-party recruiters who ask for upfront payments or promise guaranteed jobs without interviews or paperwork.
Where to Find Nurse Aide Job Opportunities
Finding nurse aide jobs in the United States as a foreigner can be simple if you know where to look. The key is to target trusted platforms, verified employers, and agencies that offer visa sponsorship. There are many online tools and job portals that list caregiver vacancies open to international applicants, but you must focus on legitimate channels that list verified offers.
One of the best places to start is the official U.S. job portal—USAJOBS.gov. While most jobs here are for U.S. citizens, there are healthcare institutions affiliated with the federal government that sometimes post opportunities for foreigners, especially in underserved areas.
Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter are popular job boards in the U.S. that list thousands of nurse aide positions daily. To narrow your search, type in phrases like “nurse aide jobs with visa sponsorship” or “CNA jobs for foreigners.” Many employers mention if they’re open to sponsorship in the job description. Use filters to sort by state, salary, and full-time or part-time availability.
Care.com and A Place for Mom are also useful if you’re looking for jobs in assisted living facilities or private homes. While not all listings offer sponsorship, some families or agencies do so in regions with caregiver shortages. Always confirm the legitimacy of any job before proceeding with personal details.
LinkedIn is another effective tool. Many hospitals and staffing agencies post jobs directly on their company pages. You can connect with HR managers, follow healthcare recruitment agencies, and join caregiver groups where job opportunities are shared regularly.
Specialized staffing agencies like MedPro International, O’Grady Peyton International, and Avant Healthcare Professionals are well-known for placing international nurse aides in the U.S. These companies help with placement, visa processing, and even travel arrangements. They also guide candidates through licensing requirements based on their target state.
If you are currently outside the U.S., also consider contacting the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Some embassies hold job fairs or share verified job opportunities with visa pathways on their websites.
It’s important to avoid job scams. Do not pay money to secure job offers. Legitimate employers will follow due process, which includes interviews, document review, and visa petitioning through official U.S. government platforms.
How to Apply for Nurse Aide Jobs as a Foreigner in the USA
Applying for nurse aide jobs in the USA as a foreigner involves a few clear steps. The process can be smooth if you have the right documents, meet job requirements, and apply through trusted employers. Whether you’re already trained as a nurse aide or you’re willing to complete training in the U.S., you can still qualify for positions with visa sponsorship.
First, prepare a professional resume that meets U.S. standards. This should include your education, any healthcare training, previous job experience, language skills, and certifications. If you have completed a CNA program in your country, make sure to include this and attach your certificate if available.
Second, search for nurse aide jobs that mention “visa sponsorship available” in the listing. Use platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, or apply directly on hospital websites. Once you find a job that fits your qualifications, apply with a strong cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and why you’re willing to relocate to the U.S.
If selected, the employer will usually invite you for a virtual interview. Be prepared to speak clearly in English, talk about your work experience, and show a good attitude toward patient care. If successful, the employer will provide a job offer and begin the visa sponsorship process. For EB-3 visa applicants, the employer must apply for a Labor Certification (PERM) and then file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).
You will then receive instructions from the U.S. embassy in your country for visa interviews and medical exams. Once your visa is approved, the employer may assist with travel arrangements and help you settle in.
Some employers may require you to complete additional training or pass the CNA exam in their state once you arrive. This is often provided free of charge as part of onboarding. Be ready to take the initiative, study, and pass these requirements quickly so you can start working.
Lastly, make sure you understand your rights as a worker. Keep copies of all documents, ask questions if you’re unsure about any part of the process, and avoid anyone who promises to “fast-track” your job without proper procedures. With the right preparation, getting a nurse aide job in the U.S. is not only possible—it’s a strong first step to long-term success in healthcare.