Take Control of Your U.S. Nursing Journey: How to Choose the Right Employer

Choosing the right Employer is one of the most important decisions an international healthcare professional can make when planning a career in the United States. A reliable partner can make the process smooth and secure, while the wrong choice can put your career goals (or even your finances) at risk. 

Not all agencies operate in the same way. Some provide little support once you sign, while others may make promises they cannot deliver. To help you protect your future, here are the red flags to watch for, along with how Conexus supports you at every step of the journey: 

#1: Hidden fees and costs 

Some agencies ask candidates to pay for services such as visas, licensing exams or relocation costs, which is a warning sign that they may be putting profits before people. Reputable agencies never charge candidates fees for these essentials. For example, Conexus covers all immigration, licensing costs, including NCLEX sponsorship, Visa Screen, credentials, clinical and cultural assimilation training and relocation to the U.S. We also pay for NCLEX-related travel and accommodation, if required. 

If you are asked to pay upfront, proceed with caution as it may indicate the agency does not have your best interests at heart.  

#2: No clear immigration or licensing support

Immigration and licensing are complex processes that require expert guidance. If an agency outsources immigration work or leaves you to manage licensing alone, you may face delays and unnecessary stress.

Our in-house immigration team has decades of experience and many of them have been through the U.S. immigration journey themselves. They will work with you directly to secure your work visa. Meanwhile, our licensing team handles NCLEX eligibility, applications and state license endorsements. 

Always be aware of agencies that offer vague promises without a clear and personalised step-by-step plan. 

#3: No pay or benefits while you wait 

Some agencies, and even direct-hire employers, do not provide income until you start working in the U.S., which can put serious financial strain on you and your family. 

At Conexus, your employment agreement is issued upfront, clearly outlining what you can expect so you can start your financial planning before you arrive. Crucially, we also provide transition pay and sign-on bonuses to help you and your family stay financially stable throughout the transition process. 

#4: Lack of ongoing support after arrival 

For many agencies, placement is where their job ends. However, without the right post-arrival support, you risk feeling isolated or overwhelmed as you adjust to life in the U.S. 

With Conexus, support does not stop at arrival; in fact, it grows. Our deployment team helps with housing, banking, schools and family needs so you can settle in smoothly, while established Conexus communities give you a “home away from home”, where you and your family can connect with other international healthcare professionals. 

Furthermore, through the Conexus Academy, our clinical educators will guide you with contextual and practical training to build your confidence from day one and throughout your career. Ongoing professional development means we support not just your first role, but your long-term success.

#5: Overpromising and underdelivering  

Be cautious of agencies that guarantee “fast-tracked visas” or specific placements without explaining how. Government processes set U.S. immigration timelines and cannot be bypassed. Hospitals also make their own hiring decisions, so no agency can guarantee placements without transparency. 

Conexus follows a proven process that has successfully supported thousands of healthcare professionals from more than 150 countries. From understanding your goals and clinical strengths to matching you with the right U.S. hospital and providing ongoing professional development, we maintain transparency throughout every stage. 

Always look for an agency that communicates realistic timelines and keeps you updated throughout the initial process and beyond. 

How to protect yourself 

Before committing to an agency, ask direct questions like: 

• Who pays for my immigration and licensing costs? 
• Do you provide income before I start working in the U.S.? 
• What ongoing support do you offer once I arrive? 
• How many healthcare professionals have you successfully placed, and how long have you been established? 
• Can you put me in touch with a healthcare professional you have placed so I can ask them about their experience? 

The right agency can make all the difference as you embark on your career in the U.S. By asking the right questions, you can protect yourself, your career and your family’s future. 

Conexus has a proven track record of supporting international healthcare professionals through each stage of the journey by providing comprehensive immigration and licensing support, financial stability and ongoing guidance after arrival. 

Start your career in the U.S. with confidence and learn more about how Conexus will support you every step of the way.