The demand for nursing assistants in the United States is at an all-time high due to the growing elderly population and healthcare staff shortages. Many US healthcare facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, and private care agencies, offer visa sponsorship for qualified foreign nursing assistants.
If you’re looking for a secure, well-paying healthcare job in the US, this guide will help you understand the requirements, visa options, salary expectations, and how to apply for jobs with visa sponsorship.
Why Nursing Assistant Jobs Are in High Demand in the US
Healthcare facilities across the US are experiencing a severe shortage of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and nursing aides. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% job growth for nursing assistants from 2022 to 2032, creating thousands of new job opportunities.
Key Reasons for the Demand
✅ An aging population needing long-term care
✅ A shortage of local healthcare workers, forcing employers to hire foreign nursing assistants
✅ An increase in chronic diseases requiring 24/7 patient care
✅ Expansion of home healthcare services due to high hospitalization costs
Because of this demand, many US employers sponsor foreign CNAs to fill these positions.
Visa Sponsorship Options for Foreign Nursing Assistants
Foreign nursing assistants can apply for jobs in the US through different visa programs. Here are the most common options:
1. H-2B Visa (Temporary Non-Agricultural Work Visa)
- For temporary nursing assistant positions in hospitals, nursing homes, or private homes.
- Employer must prove there are no available US workers for the role.
- Visa is valid for one year but can be extended up to three years.
2. EB-3 Visa (Green Card for Skilled & Unskilled Workers)
- Best option for foreign nursing assistants seeking permanent jobs.
- Requires a job offer from a US employer willing to sponsor the visa.
- Leads to a Green Card, allowing permanent residence in the US.
3. J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor Program)
- Suitable for nursing students, trainees, and caregivers.
- Applicants must return to their home country after the program ends.
Best Option?
If you want permanent residency in the US, the EB-3 visa is the most recommended as it leads to a Green Card.
How to Get a Nursing Assistant Job in the US with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Get the Necessary Nursing Assistant Qualifications
Most US employers prefer Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), so it’s important to obtain:
- A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license from a recognized program
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR certifications
- First Aid training for handling emergencies
💡 Tip: If you’re not yet certified, enroll in an online CNA training program to improve your chances.
Step 2: Search for Employers Offering Sponsorship
To find nursing assistant jobs with visa sponsorship, search on trusted job portals like:
- Indeed – Search “CNA jobs with visa sponsorship”
- Glassdoor – Look for healthcare providers hiring foreign CNAs
- SimplyHired – Find sponsorship listings in hospitals and nursing homes
- myCNAjobs – A job board specifically for nursing assistants
💡 Pro Tip: Check hospital and healthcare agency websites directly for sponsorship job openings.
Step 3: Apply for Jobs & Attend Interviews
- Update your resume with CNA certification, patient care experience, and soft skills like empathy and communication.
- Write a strong cover letter explaining why you’re a great fit for the role.
- Be prepared for video interviews where employers may ask questions about patient care, handling emergencies, and teamwork.
Step 4: Employer Files Your Work Visa
Once hired, the employer will:
- File a visa petition (Form I-129 for H-2B or Form I-140 for EB-3).
- Provide a job contract and proof of sponsorship.
- Assist with your visa interview at the US embassy.
Step 5: Relocate & Start Working in the US
After visa approval, you’ll move to the US and begin working as a nursing assistant.
Salary & Benefits for Nursing Assistants in the US
Nursing assistant salaries vary based on location, experience, and employer.
| Job Title | Average Salary (Per Year) | Best-Paying States |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $35,000 – $50,000 | California, New York, Massachusetts |
| Home Health Aide (HHA) | $30,000 – $40,000 | New Jersey, Oregon, Alaska |
| Personal Care Aide | $28,000 – $38,000 | Washington, Hawaii, Connecticut |
Additional Perks
🎯 Free visa sponsorship
🎯 Health insurance & retirement benefits
🎯 Paid CNA training & certification
🎯 Relocation assistance (some employers provide free accommodation)
💡 Tip: Employers in rural areas offer higher salaries and benefits to attract workers.
Top US Employers Hiring Foreign Nursing Assistants
If you’re looking for visa-sponsored CNA jobs, check out these top US employers:
- Amedisys Home Health Care – Hires CNAs for in-home patient care.
- BrightStar Care – Offers visa-sponsored nursing jobs nationwide.
- Visiting Angels – Specializes in home care and often hires foreign caregivers.
- Right at Home – Provides full-time caregiver and nursing assistant jobs.
- Genesis Healthcare – One of the largest employers of CNAs and caregivers in the US.
💡 Tip: Apply directly on their official career websites for faster processing.
Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Although nursing assistant jobs with visa sponsorship are widely available, there are some challenges:
🚩 Limited Visa Slots – Apply early, as the H-2B visa has annual quotas.
🚩 Strict Job Requirements – Get your CNA certification to stand out.
🚩 High Competition – Apply to multiple employers to increase your chances.
✅ Success Tips:
- Join LinkedIn and caregiver forums to connect with recruiters.
- Take CNA refresher courses to boost your resume.
- Use professional job platforms like myCNAjobs.com to apply for top openings.
Final Thoughts
Nursing assistant jobs in the US with visa sponsorship are an incredible opportunity for international healthcare workers. By getting the right certifications, applying to reputable employers, and following visa guidelines, you can secure a well-paying job in the US healthcare industry.
👉 Start your application today and take the first step toward working as a nursing assistant in the US!