Global nurse migration to U.S. faces policy hurdles in 2025: CGFNS report
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES — The outlook for nurse visa applications in 2025 remains uncertain as U.S. immigration policies evolve amidst persistent healthcare staffing shortages.
A recent CGFNS International report highlights key trends impacting foreign-educated nurses seeking employment in the U.S., a vital workforce pipeline for addressing the country’s critical nursing shortfall.
VisaScreen applications decline
In 2024, VisaScreen applications dropped by 4.6% from the previous year, totaling 24,733. Despite this decline, application levels remain nearly double those seen before the pandemic, reflecting sustained interest in U.S. migration opportunities.
The reduction is attributed to the expiration of COVID-19-era visa policies and ongoing challenges such as visa retrogression, which extended wait times for employment-based green cards to nearly four years before easing slightly in late 2024.
Policy uncertainty under new administration
The Trump administration’s renewed focus on immigration is expected to reshape visa availability and processing times.
According to CGFNS, “Key challenges, such as visa retrogression and employment-based green card caps, are likely to persist in the short term.”
These barriers could hinder efforts to attract skilled nurses to a healthcare system grappling with long-standing workforce shortages.
Shifting recruitment strategies
U.S. healthcare facilities have adapted their hiring practices in response to prolonged visa delays.
Some employers have moved away from direct recruitment models, while others emphasize ethical hiring practices.
CGFNS noted a rise in Certified Ethical Recruiters (CERs), signaling a growing demand for transparency and fairness in international nurse recruitment.
Source country diversification
While the Philippines remains the top source country for nurse migrants, its share of applicants has declined slightly, with Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana emerging as key contributors.
Additionally, English proficiency testing preferences have shifted significantly; nearly half of applicants now favor the PTE exam following updates to approved testing options.
Looking ahead: Challenges and opportunities
The combination of policy uncertainty and global workforce retention efforts could shape a more cautious landscape for nurse migration in 2025. CGFNS emphasizes that addressing these challenges will require collaborative solutions balancing global mobility with ethical recruitment and sustainable workforce strategies.
As healthcare systems worldwide continue to struggle with staffing shortages, foreign-educated nurses remain indispensable. However, their ability to contribute effectively depends on streamlined immigration pathways and proactive measures to address systemic barriers.
