U.S. Immigration: What You Need to Know in 2025 – A Guide for International Nurses and Healthcare Professionals

By Vasco Lopes da Silva – EVP of Global Strategic Talent for Conexus MedStaff

Navigating U.S. immigration can feel overwhelming, especially in today’s unpredictable landscape.

The process can often seem complex and frustrating if you’re an international nurse or healthcare professional striving to build a life and career in the U.S.. At Conexus MedStaff, we’re here to cut through the confusion and provide clear, consistent guidance so you can move forward with clarity, support, and confidence.

What’s Changing: Understanding the 2025 Immigration Landscape

This year has brought a new wave of challenges and opportunities in U.S. employment-based immigration. While speculation is common, especially in an election year, it’s essential to stay grounded in facts, not fear.

Here’s what international nurses and healthcare professionals need to know right now:

Visa Bulletin Movement & Priority Dates

• The Visa Bulletin, issued monthly by the U.S. Department of State, determines which green card cases are currently eligible for processing based on their priority date, typically the date the I-140 petition was filed.
• For EB-3 visas (which include registered nurses), the July 2025 bulletin shows notable backlogs:
  • Philippines: processing cases from February 2023
  • India: processing cases from April 2013
  • All other countries: processing cases from April 2023
• While frustrating, this backlog, known as retrogression, is a normal part of the immigration cycle when demand exceeds supply.

Processing Times

• USCIS continues to experience extended processing times for I-140 petitions and adjustment of status filings.
• Even so, cases are still moving forward, especially when prepared proactively and correctly.

Visa Supply Limits

• The annual cap for employment-based green cards remains 140,000, with no more than 7% allocated to any single country. This is set by Congress and is unlikely to change without new legislation.
• The pandemic years saw faster movement due to “visa spillover” from family-based categories, but that temporary boost has now ended, contributing to today’s backlogs.

The Ongoing Demand for Nurses

• The U.S. continues to face a critical nursing shortage, and internationally educated nurses remain essential to meeting healthcare needs, especially in underserved areas.

Policy Stability

• Despite election-year rumors, there have been no sweeping immigration changes in 2025 that affect the eligibility of nurses.
• While a new travel ban has been implemented, it does not apply to existing green card holders, dual nationals with a second eligible passport, or those already in valid U.S. status.

Debunking Common Myths and Misunderstandings

Let’s set the record straight on a few widespread misconceptions:

“U.S. immigration pathways are closed.”

False. While delays exist, the system is still open and functioning for qualified healthcare professionals.

“If my priority date isn’t current, I can’t do anything.”

Incorrect. Nurses can take meaningful steps now—like credentialing, English exams, visa screening, and I-140 filing—to ensure they’re ready when their date becomes current.

“Only nurses already in the U.S. are eligible.”

Not true. International nurses are still being hired and sponsored—especially through accredited staffing agencies like Conexus.

“It’s too complicated to start in 2025.”

Yes, it’s complex—but not impossible.. With the right guidance, nurses can begin their journey with confidence.

What This Means for International Nurses

Delays are real—but so are opportunities. The pathway to a U.S. nursing career is still open, viable, and rewarding for those who are prepared and supported.

How to Use Retrogression Time Productively

While waiting for your priority date, take proactive steps:

• Complete English proficiency exams
• Start your visa screening process (allow 2–3 months)
• Organize documentation and submit everything on time
• Prepare financially for visa-related fees (e.g. $345 per dependent)

Premium Processing—Is It Worth It?

Premium I-140 processing ($2,800) guarantees a decision in 15 days but does not affect your place in line.
Conexus uses premium processing strategically, only when it provides real benefit.

Can I Work While I Wait?

Yes. Many nurses choose to work in other countries (e.g. the Middle East) while waiting, as long as they:

• Continue practising bedside nursing in their speciality
• Maintain up-to-date clinical experience
• Consult Conexus before making significant changes

Have a Previous I-140? You May Qualify for Recapture

If you had a previously approved I-140, you might be able to recapture your old priority date, allowing you to skip the current backlog. Conexus offers a fast-track recapture program to support eligible nurses.

The Conexus Way: End-to-End Immigration Support

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Conexus is here to simplify every step.

Our Full-Service Model Includes:

• Visa and immigration guidance: We manage the full immigration process—from I-140 filing to visa interview prep.
• Credentialing and licensing support: We help nurses meet all U.S. requirements, including NCLEX and state licensure.
• Relocation and onboarding: We support nurses with travel, housing, community integration, and cultural adjustment.
• Career development and mentorship: We offer ongoing clinical check-ins, mentorship, and advancement opportunities.
• Regulatory compliance: We ensure full immigration and healthcare compliance to support a smooth transition into your U.S. nursing career.

We’re more than recruiters, we’re your trusted partners in building a successful U.S. nursing career.

Webinar Recording: U.S. Immigration Explained

Immigration doesn’t have to feel like a mystery. In this recorded session, our Conexus immigration specialists break down the essentials for nurses and healthcare professionals navigating the U.S. immigration system in 2025:

• Key 2025 immigration changes for nurses
• Actionable steps to take now based on your I-140 or current status
• How to approach immigration as part of your long-term career planning
• Expert insights shared during our live Q&A with legal and staffing professionals

Whether you’re a nurse preparing your next move or looking for clarity on your current process, this webinar offers the knowledge and confidence to take your next step.

Access the free recording now and get the guidance you need to move forward.