How to Apply

The first step in this process is to secure a job offer from a U.S. healthcare employer. Once an employer offers you a nursing position, they will file an EB-3 petition (Form I-140) with USCIS along with supporting documents. The sponsoring employer will generally get a receipt notice in the mail from USCIS within about two weeks. Assuming USCIS has all required information, they will approve or deny the petition within several months, depending on processing times. When approved, USCIS will forward your paperwork to the National Visa Center (NVC).

the NVC takes the case

Once the National Visa Center (NVC) receives your approved petition from USCIS, they will send you a welcome notice via mail or email. This notice includes your case number, beneficiary ID number, and an invoice number. You will need these numbers to submit the online forms and fees through the NVC’s Consular Electronic Application Center.

The NVC begins processing your case as soon as it is received if your priority date is current. If the priority date is not current, the NVC will hold your case and notify you when it becomes active according to the U.S. Visa Bulletin.

IMPORTANT UPDATE FOR NURSES APPLYING UNDER EB-3:

Due to high demand for EB-3 nurses, priority dates may retrogress for certain countries. It’s important to monitor the Visa Bulletin to ensure your priority date is current before the NVC begins document processing. Processing times can vary, so careful planning is essential to avoid delays.

The DS-261.

The next step is to file the DS-261 form (Online Choice of Address and Agent). This form tells the U.S. government how to communicate with you and there is no fee to file it. It can take up to three weeks for the NVC to process the DS-261.

Filing the DS-260

Once your fees have been processed, you can file the DS-260 (immigrant visa application). This is the primary visa application for foreign nurses seeking to work and immigrate to the U.S. under the EB-3 category.

DS-260 filing tips

To complete and submit your EB-3 Nursing visa application, please follow these instructions:

• 1. You will need your case number, beneficiary ID number, and invoice number from the NVC welcome notice.

• 2. Complete the DS-260 online form in English. Transliterate any non-Roman alphabet names or addresses.

• 3. Include all professional experience and education, including nursing license, clinical experience, and any continuing education.

• 4. List all addresses where you have lived since age 16.

• 5. Ensure the mailing address is valid until your green card arrives.

• 6. You cannot edit the DS-260 after submission. If a mistake is found, inform the consular officer at your interview for correction.

• 7. Print the confirmation page to bring to your U.S. consulate interview.

Supporting Documents

After submitting the DS-260, the NVC will notify you of receipt. You must then submit your supporting documents as instructed by the NVC.

Depending on the U.S. consulate, you may need to upload, email, or mail all documents. The NVC gathers all required documents and forwards them to the consulate for scheduling your interview and final decision.

Submit documents exactly as instructed—some consulates require physical copies, while others accept digital copies.

Documents from the applicant (Nurse):

Required documents include:

• 1. Passport and birth certificate.

• 2. Nursing diploma, transcripts, and license verification.

• 3. Work experience letters and recommendation letters.

• 4. Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence.

• 5. Medical examination results from a CDC-approved physician.

Documents from the sponsoring employer:

Required employer documents include:

• 1. Job offer letter and employment contract.

• 2. Proof of ability to pay salary.

• 3. Labor certification (PERM) and I-140 petition approval notice.

Extra Tips

Follow these additional tips:

• 1. Check the NVC notice for any additional requirements.

• 2. Submit all documents together in one package if possible.

• 3. Use copies of official documents, not originals.

Answer a 5-minute questionnaire and get personalized guidance for your Nursing EB-3 visa process!

Interview and Final Fee

After submitting supporting documents, the consulate schedules your interview. Bring originals of all documents. Once approved, pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee ($235) online to receive your green card.

Get Expert EB-3 Nursing Visa Assistance

Navigating the DS-260, DS-261, and all other EB-3 nursing visa steps can be complex and time-consuming. To ensure your application is accurate and processed efficiently, professional guidance is highly recommended.

Sundlass – US Immigration & Law Firm specializes in EB-3 Nursing visa services. Our team will handle everything from reviewing your documents, guiding you through DS-260 & DS-261 forms, ensuring NCLEX and credential verification readiness, to preparing you for the visa interview.

Take the stress out of the EB-3 process and increase your chances of approval by consulting Sundlass – US Immigration & Law Firm today. Get expert assistance and a personalized visa plan now!