1. Who Is a Nursing Assistant?
A nursing assistant (also known as a certified nursing assistant or CNA) provides essential care and support to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.
Their main role is to assist registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in delivering day-to-day patient care.
Key Duties Include:
- Helping patients with bathing, feeding, and mobility.
- Monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure and temperature.
- Assisting with medical procedures and documentation.
- Providing emotional support and communication for patients.
2. Why the U.S. Needs Foreign Nursing Assistants
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that healthcare support occupations will grow by over 14% through 2032, faster than most other sectors.
Key reasons behind this demand include:
- Aging baby boomer population needing long-term care.
- Shortage of domestic healthcare workers in many states.
- Expansion of elderly care facilities and rehabilitation centers.
Because of this, many healthcare providers are actively hiring foreign CNAs and offering visa sponsorship to fill critical staffing gaps — particularly in rural and underserved regions.
3. Eligibility Requirements for Foreign Applicants
To work as a nursing assistant in the USA, you must meet certain educational, certification, and visa requirements.
Basic Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- CNA certification (either from the U.S. or recognized international training).
- English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS may be required).
- Clean background check and medical clearance.
Some employers also offer CNA training programs to help foreign workers earn U.S.-recognized certification after arrival.
4. Visa Sponsorship Options for Nursing Assistants
1. H-1B Visa (Skilled Workers)
For professionals with specialized qualifications. Commonly used for registered nurses and healthcare instructors, but in some cases, CNAs with advanced training may qualify.
2. EB-3 Visa (Employment-Based Green Card)
Best option for skilled and unskilled healthcare workers. Many nursing homes and long-term care centers sponsor CNAs under this category, offering a path to permanent residency.
3. J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor Program)
For those joining temporary work or cultural exchange programs. Often used by healthcare workers for short-term experience before transitioning to another visa type.
4. TN Visa (For Canadian and Mexican Citizens)
Under the USMCA agreement, Canadian and Mexican healthcare workers can apply more easily for positions in the U.S.
5. Top Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship for Nursing Assistants
| Employer | Type of Facility | Sponsorship Type |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis Healthcare | Nursing Homes & Rehab Centers | EB-3 |
| HCA Healthcare | Hospitals Nationwide | H-1B / EB-3 |
| Aveanna Healthcare | Home Health & Pediatric Care | EB-3 |
| Amedisys | Hospice & Home Health | EB-3 |
| Trinity Health | Hospitals & Assisted Living | EB-3 |
| Brookdale Senior Living | Retirement & Memory Care Centers | EB-3 |
| ProMedica Senior Care | Skilled Nursing Facilities | EB-3 |
💡 Tip: Employers in rural areas are more likely to sponsor foreign workers due to higher staffing shortages.
6. Salary and Benefits
The average salary for nursing assistants in the USA ranges from $32,000 to $48,000 per year, depending on experience, state, and facility type.
Typical Benefits Include:
- Health insurance and dental coverage.
- Paid leave and overtime pay.
- Relocation assistance for sponsored workers.
- On-site accommodation (for live-in facilities).
- Career development and CNA-to-RN training pathways.
States such as California, New York, and Texas offer some of the highest pay rates for CNAs, while Midwestern states often provide easier visa sponsorship opportunities.
7. How to Apply for Nursing Assistant Jobs With Visa Sponsorship
Step 1: Prepare Your Credentials
Get your educational certificates evaluated by a U.S. credentialing agency (like CGFNS or WES), then translate and notarize all documents.
Step 2: Obtain CNA Certification
Apply for a state-approved CNA training program and pass both the written and clinical exams to earn certification.
Step 3: Search for Sponsoring Employers
Search using terms like “CNA jobs with visa sponsorship in USA” or “EB3 nursing assistant jobs.”
Step 4: Submit a Strong Application
Include a professional resume emphasizing healthcare experience and a clear note on your willingness to relocate and eligibility for sponsorship.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
Show empathy, teamwork, and patient care experience — these qualities matter most to U.S. healthcare employers.
Step 6: Secure Sponsorship and Complete Visa Processing
Once hired, your employer will handle PERM certification and file your EB-3 or H-1B petition. Then attend your U.S. embassy interview and medical exam.
8. States With High Demand for CNAs
| State | Demand Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Very High | $35,000 – $42,000 |
| California | High | $40,000 – $48,000 |
| Florida | High | $33,000 – $40,000 |
| New York | High | $38,000 – $45,000 |
| Illinois | Medium | $34,000 – $39,000 |
| North Carolina | Medium | $32,000 – $36,000 |
9. Advantages of Working as a Nursing Assistant in the USA
- Stable employment with consistent job growth.
- Opportunities to advance into RN or LPN roles.
- Access to permanent residency through EB-3 sponsorship.
- Valuable international healthcare experience.
- Exposure to advanced U.S. medical technology and training.
Conclusion
Becoming a nursing assistant in the USA is one of the most practical and achievable ways for foreigners to begin a rewarding healthcare career. With the rising demand for healthcare workers, many U.S. employers are ready to sponsor CNAs for visas—especially those with strong English skills and compassion for patients.
If you take the time to get certified, build your resume, and apply strategically, you can secure a stable, high-paying job that leads to long-term residence and career growth in the United States.