Top 5 Myths About the E-3 Visa (and What Australian Nurses Need to Know)

Considering a U.S. nursing career with a Green Card? Don’t let misinformation hold you back.

Thinking about working as a nurse in the United States?

If you’re an Australian Registered Nurse looking for long-term career opportunities abroad, the E3 visa offers a stable, employer-sponsored pathway to permanent residency in the U.S.

But despite its benefits, there’s a lot of confusion around how the process works. Let’s clear up the top 5 myths that might be stopping you from taking the first step.

Myth #1: “I need to have a U.S. employer lined up before I apply.”

Truth: With Conexus MedStaff, you don’t need to job hunt on your own.
As a sponsoring employer, we secure your U.S. job placement, prepare you for licensure and immigration, and handle your visa filing, including I-140 petition and consular processing.

You’re not doing this alone.

Myth #2: “The E-3 visa takes years and years.”

Truth: For nurses, E-3 processing is streamlined.
Nursing is a Schedule A occupation, which means the Labor Certification (PERM) step is waived, saving months in processing time. Most E-3 nurse cases progress faster than general E-3 visas.

With a valid NCLEX and English exam, many Conexus nurses complete the process in 12–18 months.

Myth #3: “My family can’t come with me.”

Truth: The E-3 includes your spouse and children.
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply for their own Green Cards as derivative applicants. They’ll be eligible to live, work, and study in the U.S. with you.

Myth #4: “There must be hidden costs or agency fees.”

Truth: With Conexus, there are no upfront agency fees.
We are your direct employer and visa sponsor, not a placement agency. That means we cover major expenses like immigration filing, visa costs, and relocation support.

You’ll also receive:

• NCLEX support (if needed)
• Licensing and credentialing assistance
• Pre-departure training and U.S. orientation

Myth #5: “It’s too risky — what if I don’t pass the NCLEX?”

Truth: You’ll get structured preparation and second-chance options.
We only move forward when we know you’re ready. If you’re still preparing, we’ll help with:

• NCLEX prep resources
• Testing timeline planning
• Re-testing support if needed

Plus, you don’t need to pass the NCLEX before applying; we can start your E-3 journey in parallel with exam prep.

Let’s recap: E-3 for Australian Nurses means…

• A direct path to permanent U.S. residency
• Family Green Cards included
• No placement or agency fees
• Full support from application to arrival

Ready to take the next step?

Register your interest today, and a member of our team will guide you through your E-3 eligibility and next steps.

Find out more here.