For many people, working in the U.S. is a dream come true. The country has always been welcoming to foreign professionals, especially scientists and other high-profile experts. In the last few decades, the U.S. has increasingly focused on healthcare professionals as a way to address gaps in its workforce.
As the local population ages, it becomes increasingly difficult to provide appropriate medical care. The U.S. lacks healthcare professionals in just about every field, from physicians to allied health workers and nurses. Given that the education system can’t provide enough medical staff to fulfil the country’s needs, clinics and hospitals often turn to international nurse staffing.
To make things easier for foreign professionals, the government has introduced several immigration paths. So, if you’re someone contemplating joining the U.S. workforce, you should get acquainted with the options at your disposal.
Understanding Temporary and Permanent Visas
If you want to become a part of America’s system, you must first acquire a temporary or permanent work visa. While both types of permits serve the same purpose, they significantly differ in terms of their advantages and drawbacks, potentially affecting your career trajectory.
Temporary Visas
Temporary visas are ideal for young professionals coming to the U.S. for short-term training or education. They are also suitable for patching temporary or seasonal needs, although the healthcare visas are rarely used in such a manner. It is worth noting that a temporary visa lasts from 1 to 6 years, depending on the category.
In most cases, they are related to a sponsoring employer. In other words, a person receiving the visa is fairly limited in terms of switching jobs or educational institutions. They must adhere to the permit’s rules or risk having their visa revoked.
Another issue with temporary visas is that they don’t offer any citizenship rights. Even if you spend several years in the country, you won’t have any better rights than people who have arrived in America as tourists.
Permanent Visas
As the name suggests, permanent visas are a more stable, long-term solution for people who want to build a future in the country. Besides having indefinite residence, they are the main prerequisite for citizenship. Once you get a permanent visa, you’ll be able to switch between jobs and seek different opportunities that might not be available with a temporary permit.
Perhaps the biggest issue with permanent visas is the much longer application and processing period. Nevertheless, this is your best solution if you want to bring family members into the country. Overall, a permanent visa gives you full access to the country’s diverse healthcare, employment, and education opportunities.
Temporary Visa Options for Healthcare Professionals
Temporary visas allow foreign medical professionals to stay in the country for a limited period, depending on a program or employment opportunity. The best thing about them is that they’re much easier to acquire than permanent visas, making them an ideal choice for students and anyone else who doesn’t have time to wait for long administrative processes.
- H-1B Visa: If you’re seeking a position in the advanced medical field, you should apply for this permit. The biggest issue with the H-1B program is its limited number of slots, which allows only the best professionals to enter the U.S.
- J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa: This type of visa is commonly used by individuals participating in fellowships and residencies. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you have to return to your country of origin after years, unless you can secure a waiver.
- TN Visa: The TN Visa is created in accordance with the NAFTA agreement, allowing the smooth relocation of Mexican and Canadian nationals to the U.S. Besides medical professions, the visa is suitable for all other types of specialized professions.
- O-1 Visa: Like most visas on this list, the O-1 is tailored for professionals with extraordinary abilities. The permit is commonly used by healthcare specialists and other academics.
Advantages
- Fastest access to the country and its workforce
- Suitable for short-term professional goals
- Creates opportunities in the U.S. education and healthcare sectors
Disadvantages
- Limited duration and renewal options
- Limited number of spots for certain visas
- Employee-dependent, resulting in limited mobility
- Doesn’t guarantee long-term professional opportunities
Permanent Visa Options for Healthcare Professionals
If you’re looking to relocate to America, either alone or with your family, you must pursue a permanent visa. These permits are suitable for professionals who have several years of experience under their belt and are willing to explore different opportunities.
- EB-2 Visa: Professionals with advanced degrees are eligible for this visa category. If you’re also willing to work in an underserved area, you will also likely be available for a National Interest Waiver.
- EB-3 Visa: This type of permit is just a level below EB-2. Unlike the previously mentioned visa, which is ideal for physicians and specialists, this one is also suitable for nurses and allied health professionals. It is worth noting that the EB-3 visa requires support from an employee sponsor.
- Family-Sponsored Green Cards: If you’re a medical professional and have family members living in the United States, you might be eligible for this type of permanent permit.
- Other Opportunities: The last visa worth mentioning is EB-1, which is only available to people with outstanding contributions and abilities.
Advantages
- The best way to attain citizenship as a medical professional
- Offer a greater carrier mobility and employee independence
- Great for people with kids and other family members
Disadvantages
- The process is much longer compared to a temporary visa application
- It requires much more paperwork and certain qualifications
- Certain categories come with backlogs, especially if you come from a high-demand country.
Choosing the Right Visa
Selecting the right visa is mostly determined by your current situation. If you are already employed and have the funds to cover the required fees and tests, you should apply for a permanent visa. On the other hand, promising students and young professionals should consider a temporary visa, which would open up great learning opportunity.
