Why the H-1B Visa Is a Smart Move for Nurses Amid EB-3 Retrogression
For internationally educated nurses dreaming of a career in the United States, the traditional route has often been the EB-3 green card. However, with current retrogression delays in the EB-3 category, many nurses are facing wait times of years before they can enter or adjust their status in the U.S. This bottleneck has left many wondering: Is there another viable path to start working in the U.S. sooner?
Enter the H-1B visa — a strategic alternative that more hospitals and healthcare staffing agencies are now offering to eligible nurses.
What is the H-1B Visa?
The H-1B is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. Traditionally used for tech or finance roles, certain nursing roles that require a bachelor's degree or higher — such as ICU, OR, and certain leadership positions — can qualify under H-1B if the role meets the criteria.
Why H-1B Makes Sense for Nurses Now
With the EB-3 green card category heavily backlogged, the H-1B offers a faster way to:
✅ Enter and work in the U.S.
✅ Bring dependents (spouse and children) on H-4 visas
✅ Start earning a U.S. salary without years of waiting
Once in the U.S. on an H-1B, nurses can begin gaining clinical experience, get licensed in more states, and integrate into the U.S. healthcare system — advantages that those stuck overseas waiting on EB-3 don’t have.
Can You Still Get a Green Card Later?
Absolutely. Being on an H-1B does not block your path to permanent residency. In fact, many nurses convert from H-1B to EB-3 once their priority date becomes current. The H-1B is a dual intent visa, meaning you're legally allowed to pursue a green card while on it.
Even better — if you're already working in the U.S. on an H-1B, you can adjust status from within the country, rather than going through consular processing abroad.
Same Privileges as Other RNs
Many nurses ask: Will I have the same rights and working conditions as other RNs on green cards? The answer is yes. Nurses on an H-1B:
Work the same shifts
Earn the same salaries and benefits
Have legal status to live and work in the U.S.
Can enroll their children in school and their spouse can even apply for work authorization (H-4 EAD in certain cases)
You're a full-fledged part of the healthcare workforce — just with a different visa path.
Final Thoughts
The H-1B isn’t just a backup plan — it’s a smart, proactive route for nurses who want to get ahead despite the EB-3 slowdown. If you're offered an H-1B by a hospital or recruitment agency, it may be the best opportunity to start your U.S. journey sooner, earn earlier, and build your future without delay.
