Eyeing Uncle Sam’s healthcare system and wondering how to move to the States? E be like long journey, abi? No worry—you’re not alone. Thousands of nurses from Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and across Naija have successfully made this transition, with many now earning 5-10 times their previous salaries.
After chatting with several global nursing recruitment agencies and Nigerian nurses who’ve walked this path, I’m serving you the real gist—no sugar-coating. This journey takes time (typically 1-3 years), money (₦1.5-2.5 million total investment), and plenty of grit. But with proper planning, you can join the growing community of Nigerian nurses thriving in American healthcare systems.
Listen to Our Nurse Hub Podcast with renowned Global Nursing Recruiters on how to Become a US Registered Nurse.
What You Need Before Taking Off (Basic Requirements)
Just like you can’t build mansion without foundation, you can’t start your USRN journey without these basics:
✓ Valid Nursing License from NMCN
Before anything else, you must be a properly registered nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. Your license must be current—not expired—and in good standing.
✓ Nursing Education from an Accredited School
Your qualification matters. While paths exist for diploma holders from School of Nursing, BSc Nursing graduates from universities like UNILAG, OAU, UNIBEN, or UNIJOS, know this: requirements are shifting. According to recruitment agents we spoke with in April 2025, 80% of agencies now prefer BSc Nursing graduates, but don’t lose hope if you hold a diploma—options still exist, especially if you have specialty experience.
✓ International Passport
This goes without saying, but ensure your passport remains valid throughout your application process—minimum 2 years validity recommended.
✓ WAEC/NECO Certificate
Some verifying bodies require your secondary school results as part of checking your educational background.
✓ Proof of Current Practice
Evidence that you’re actively working as a nurse in Nigeria carries weight. Keep your practice license current and obtain an experience letter from your hospital.
| Qualification Level | Current Sponsorship Outlook for Nigerians |
|---|---|
| Diploma in Nursing (SoN) | Increasingly challenging but still possible (especially with 2+ years acute care) |
| Bachelor’s Degree (BSc Nursing) | Preferred by most agencies (85% higher placement rate) |
| Master’s Degree (MSc Nursing) | Excellent prospects, especially for LUTH, UCH, UNTH graduates in specialty areas |
Document Verification: The First Official Hurdle
Now that you’ve gathered your documents, Uncle Sam wants to confirm if your qualifications match American standards. This process feels like waiting for jollof at an owambe—you don’t control the kitchen!
“The document verification stage is where many Nigerian nurses get stuck because they expect overnight processing. It can take 3-6 months just for this stage,” explains Nurse Chioma, who now works in a Texas ICU after starting her journey from LUTH in Lagos.
Verification Bodies to Know
You’ll likely deal with one of these organizations:
- CGFNS (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) – Most common and widely accepted; 70% of Nigerian nurses use this route
- ERES (Educational Records Evaluation Service) – Alternative option
- Joseph Silny & Associates – Less commonly used but still valid
CGFNS offers different services, but you specifically need their Credential Evaluation Service (CES). They’ll verify:
- Your nursing school’s accreditation (NMCN accreditation is generally recognized)
- Your transcripts (sent directly from your school—whether SoN or university)
- Your nursing license validity from NMCN
Pro Tip from Dr. Adebayo (Nigerian nurse recruiter): “If you have both a nursing diploma and a later degree, start by verifying your diploma for the initial CES application. It’s typically simpler since it’s what qualified you for your original license. Other qualifications can be verified later if a specific job requires it.”
Name Alert! Make absolutely sure your name appears EXACTLY the same on all documents—passport, certificates, application forms. Even small differences can cause major headaches. This is particularly problematic for Nigerian nurses with compound names or those who’ve changed names after marriage.
Budget for:
- Evaluation service fees ($300-500 or ₦450,000-750,000)
- Document preparation costs (₦50,000-100,000)
- Potential fees your school or NMCN might charge to send required paperwork (₦20,000-50,000)
Here’s a table summarizing the approximate costs associated with becoming a USRN, in US Dollars, Nigerian Naira, Ghanaian Cedis, and Togolese CFA Francs as at 2025. Please note that exchange rates and specific costs can vary.
| Item | US Dollars ($) | Nigerian Naira (₦) | Ghanaian Cedis (GH₵) | Togolese CFA Francs (XOF) |
| CGFNS Evaluation | 350 – 540 | 525,000 – 810,000 | 5,250 – 8,100 | 210,000 – 324,000 |
| English Proficiency Test | 245 – 255 | 367,500 – 382,500 | 3,675 – 3,825 | 147,000 – 153,000 |
| NCLEX-RN Exam | 350 | 525,000 | 5,250 | 210,000 |
| State Nursing License | 50 – 200 | 75,000 – 300,000 | 750 – 3,000 | 30,000 – 120,000 |
| Visa Application (if applicable) | 460+ | 690,000+ | 6,900+ | 276,000+ |
| Estimated Total (excluding visa) | 995 – 1345 | 1,492,500 – 2,017,500 | 14,925 – 20,175 | 597,000 – 807,000 |
| NCLEX Prep Materials/Courses | 50 – 500+ | 75,000 – 750,000+ | 750 – 7,500+ | 30,000 – 300,000+ |
| Background Check/Fingerprinting | 30 – 100 | 45,000 – 150,000 | 450 – 1,500 | 18,000 – 60,000 |
- Visa costs are highly variable. The table shows a base fee; additional fees may apply.
- State nursing license fees vary; the range provided is an estimate.
- NCLEX prep costs are optional but common.
Disclaimer: These costs are estimates and can vary. It’s crucial to check with the relevant organizations (CGFNS, NCSBN, state boards of nursing, and visa authorities) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Choosing Your American “Home Base” (State Board of Nursing)
Unlike NMCN that covers all of Nigeria, America doesn’t have one national nursing license. Each state operates independently, with different requirements. Your initial goal? Pick a state that makes getting your Authorization to Test (ATT) for the NCLEX exam faster and smoother.
What to Consider When Choosing a State
Social Security Number (SSN) Requirements
Many states require an SSN to issue a license, but some don’t require it to get the ATT. You only get an SSN when you’re legally working in the US, so this distinction matters tremendously for Nigerians applying from home.
English Proficiency Tests
Some states demand IELTS/TOEFL upfront; others waive this if your nursing education was in English. For Nigerian nurses, this is often a non-issue since our education is in English, but always confirm the specific requirements.
Processing Time & Cost
Application fees and processing times vary widely between states. Nigerian recruitment agent Sarah Okonkwo notes: “Some states can take 3 weeks while others take 3 months. Timing matters if you want to quickly proceed to NCLEX.”
States That Work Well for Nigerian Nurses (For ATT)
- New Mexico – Tops many lists; minimal requirements; has accepted many Nigerian nurses
- Texas – Good option with reasonable fees; large Nigerian nurse community
- Illinois – Requires SSN for full license but has workarounds after NCLEX
- Colorado – Some Nigerian nurses report no initial IELTS requirement
- Georgia – Growing Nigerian community; relatively straightforward process
States With More Challenging Processes
- California – Expensive, very selective, requires SSN from the start
- Arizona – Requires IELTS, longer verification process
- New York – High volume of international applicants, longer processing times
- Florida – Stricter requirements for international nurses
“I initially wanted California because of the high pay, but their requirements for international nurses were too complex without being in the US already. I went with Texas first, then moved to California after 2 years,” shares Nurse Adebayo from Ibadan.
Remember: Your initial licensing state isn’t necessarily where you’ll end up working. Once licensed, you can often endorse your license to another state if you secure employment there.
After selecting your state, visit their Board of Nursing website immediately. Read ALL requirements for internationally trained nurses. Don’t guess or assume!
NCLEX: The Make-or-Break Exam
This standardized exam separates wannabe USRNs from the real deal. Passing it represents a massive step toward your American nursing dream.
“I failed NCLEX my first attempt because I studied the way I did for Nigerian nursing exams—memorizing procedures. The US system wants you to think critically about patient scenarios,” warns Nurse Emeka from UNTH, now working in Houston.
Getting Your Authorization to Test (ATT)
After your documents are verified and approved by your chosen state board, they’ll issue your ATT, allowing you to schedule the exam. This document typically remains valid for 90 days.
Booking Your Exam
You’ll register and schedule through Pearson VUE. Payment is required (usually $200-300 or ₦300,000-450,000).
NCLEX Preparation Tips
This isn’t just any exam. Nigerian nurses face unique challenges with NCLEX:
- Different nursing philosophies – US nursing emphasizes critical thinking over memorization (unlike our NMCN exams)
- Different medication names – US often uses brand names instead of generics that we use in Nigeria
- Different healthcare culture – Patient autonomy is paramount in US healthcare (very different from our more doctor-centered approach)
Study methods that work for Nigerian nurses:
- Practice questions (thousands of them!)
- Understanding rationales behind correct answers
- Finding study groups with other Nigerian nurses
- Using resources like UWorld, Kaplan, and Mark Klimek lectures
Where to Write the NCLEX
Good news! You needn’t fly to America just for the exam. Test centers exist in:
- United Kingdom (Popular for Nigerian nurses – London center sees many Nigerians)
- South Africa (Johannesburg center – requires SA visa)
- India (Some Nigerian nurses take this route combined with tourism)
- Philippines (Another international option)
“I took my NCLEX in London. Many Nigerian nurses go there because it’s easier to get a UK visitor visa than a US visa just for an exam,” shares Nurse Blessing from Enugu.
Once you pass, you officially become a US Registered Nurse, even if you’re still in Nigeria. This credential makes you far more attractive to potential employers and sponsors.
Visa Screen: Getting Immigration-Ready
With your USRN status secured, the US government requires another verification layer for healthcare workers.
What Is Visa Screen?
It’s a certification confirming your credentials meet US government standards for healthcare practice and English proficiency.
“The Visa Screen requirement catches many Nigerian nurses by surprise. It’s a separate certification from your NCLEX, and you need it before your visa interview,” explains Mr. Oluwaseun from Global Nursing Placements, a recruitment agency with offices in Lagos and Houston.
Who Issues It?
Currently, only CGFNS and Joseph Silny are authorized to issue Visa Screen certificates for nurses.
If you used either organization for your initial credential evaluation, the process might move faster since they already have most of your documents.
Finding Work & Sponsorship: Where Dreams Meet Reality
You’re qualified, NCLEX-certified, and have your Visa Screen. Next challenge? Finding a US employer willing to sponsor your visa.
Sponsorship Routes
Recruitment Agencies
Most successful Nigerian nurses use specialized healthcare recruitment agencies that:
- Have existing relationships with US hospitals
- Understand the immigration process for nurses
- Handle much of the paperwork for you
Popular agencies among Nigerian nurses include O’Grady Peyton International, Avant Healthcare, Conexus MedStaff, and PassportUSA, but always verify their legitimacy through the American Association of International Healthcare Recruitment (AAIHR).
Direct Hospital Applications
Possible but more challenging. You’d manage more of the immigration process yourself.
Nigerian Nurse Networks
Many Nigerian nurses find opportunities through established networks. “I got my position through my cousin’s friend who was already working at the hospital. She connected me with HR directly,” shares Nurse Funmi from Lagos.
Common Visa Types for Nigerian Nurses
- EB3 Immigrant Visa – Leads to permanent residency (green card); can include dependents (spouse and children under 21); most common for Nigerian nurses
- H1B Temporary Work Visa – Requires Bachelor’s degree; sometimes faster but more restrictions
Recruitment Requirements Shift
Be aware—requirements change. According to our discussions with recruitment agents in April 2025, one major agency previously accepted Nigerian nurses with diplomas and 6 months of acute care experience, but now demands a Bachelor’s degree and one year of acute care experience minimum.
SERIOUS WARNING: If any agency asks YOU to pay THEM for sponsorship, run! Legitimate agencies get paid by the hospitals that hire you. The process is long-term—sometimes taking 2-3 years from start to finish—so patience is key. This scam is particularly common in WhatsApp groups targeting Nigerian nurses.
Real Talk: What Nigerian Nurses Wish They Knew Before Landing
Getting the job and visa is just the beginning. Here’s insider knowledge from Nigerians who’ve walked this path:
Documentation Is EVERYTHING
This isn’t like our hospitals where verbal reports might suffice. If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen. Period. Document everything—giving water, turning a patient, every single vital sign.
“In Nigeria, we could tell the next shift nurse verbally what happened. In the US, if you didn’t document the IV site assessment q2h, they assume you didn’t do it—even if you did. This can cost you your license,” warns Nurse Chinedu from LUTH, now working in Dallas.
You’re documenting as if you’ll defend your actions in court tomorrow, because someday, you might have to.
Patient Power Dynamics Are Different
Patients here have significant power because they’re paying customers. They expect exceptional “customer care” alongside clinical excellence.
“The first time a patient called to complain about me because I didn’t smile enough, I was shocked. In UBTH, patients were grateful for any care. Here, patient satisfaction affects hospital ratings and funding,” explains Nurse Amaka from Benin City.
Your communication skills matter enormously—patients can report you for not being “nice,” even when you weren’t intentionally rude.
Embrace Being a Beginner Again
Even with years of experience back home, you’ll face a learning curve with:
- US medication names (they use brand names constantly)
- Electronic charting systems (vastly different from paper charting common in Nigerian hospitals)
- American healthcare culture (patient autonomy over doctor authority)
- Hospital protocols (highly standardized compared to our sometimes flexible approaches)
“I was a senior nurse at UCH Ibadan with 8 years experience. But my first month in Chicago, I felt like a fresh graduate. The technology alone was overwhelming,” shares Nurse Tunde.
Be humble. Ask questions. Show willingness to learn. Americans generally appreciate politeness and eagerness to improve.
Career Advancement Tips
Working in ICU or Emergency Department (ED) can open more doors long-term, including specialized roles like flight nursing or cruise ship nursing.
“If you’re coming from Nigeria, try to get ICU or ED experience before you leave. Even 6 months helps. Those units build stronger technical skills—like managing multiple drips and perfecting IV insertion—that create flexibility later,” advises Nurse Joy from Port Harcourt.
Financial Wisdom
USRNs earn good money (often $60,000-120,000 annually depending on location), but living costs can shock newcomers.
“My first year, I sent almost all my money home to family in Nigeria. I was living with 5 other nurses in a small apartment. By year three, I bought a house. Financial discipline is key,” explains Nurse Peter from Kano.
Car payments, insurance, housing, and American consumerism drain accounts quickly. Live wisely those first few years.
Your Secret Weapon: Community
This journey feels overwhelming when tackled alone. Connect with others on the same path.
Why Community Matters
- You’ll stay motivated seeing others succeed
- You’ll access current information about processes and requirements
- You’ll receive emotional support when obstacles arise
“I would have given up after my first NCLEX failure if not for my WhatsApp group of Nigerian nurses. They encouraged me, shared resources, and one even paid for my UWorld subscription when I was broke. Now I’m helping others,” shares Nurse Victoria from Akure.
Finding Your Nigerian Nursing Tribe
- Facebook Groups: “Nigerian Nurses Pursuing USRN,” “Naija Nurses in America”
- WhatsApp Communities: Ask around in your hospital or nursing school alumni groups
- NANNNA: Nigerian Nurses Association chapters exist in many US cities
- LinkedIn connections: Follow Nigerian nurses who’ve made the transition
FAQs About Becoming a USRN from Nigeria
How long does the entire process take for Nigerian nurses?
Typically 1.5-3 years from start to finish. Document verification takes longer from Nigeria (3-6 months) than from some other countries due to communication challenges with some nursing schools.
How much does it cost overall for a Nigerian nurse?
Budget ₦1.5-2.5 million for credential verification, NCLEX, Visa Screen, and other expenses before employment. This doesn’t include travel costs or initial settlement expenses.
Can my family come with me?
Most EB3 visa routes allow bringing dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21). Your spouse can usually work after obtaining an Employment Authorization Document.
Will my Nigerian nursing experience count in the US?
Experience counts, but you’ll likely start at entry-level positions. Specialty experience (ICU, ED, Theatre) from teaching hospitals like LUTH, UCH, or UNTH might earn higher starting positions.
What’s the biggest challenge for Nigerian nurses in the US?
Many report documentation requirements and cultural adjustment as their biggest hurdles. The extreme emphasis on patient satisfaction and electronic documentation differs significantly from Nigerian practice.
Do I need to convert my Nigerian nursing qualification first?
No. The credential evaluation process handles this. You don’t need additional qualifications before applying.
How much do Nigerian nurses typically earn in the US?
Entry-level: $60,000-75,000 annually With 2-3 years experience: $75,000-90,000 Specialty areas (ICU, ED, OR): $80,000-120,000+ Travel nursing: $100,000-200,000+
Which states have the largest Nigerian nurse communities?
Texas, Maryland, Georgia, Illinois, and New York have substantial Nigerian nurse populations and active community groups.
Final Thoughts: The Journey Is Worth It
Becoming a USRN from Nigeria isn’t easy. The process demands patience, thoroughness with documentation, and persistence through multiple steps.
But the rewards? Significant. Professional growth, financial stability, educational opportunities for yourself and family, and the chance to transform your nursing career path completely.
“After 4 years in the US, I’ve bought a house in Houston and another in Lekki. My children attend excellent schools, and I’m now pursuing my DNP with hospital tuition assistance. The struggle was worth every tear,” reflects Nurse Adeola from Abeokuta.
Don’t let complexity overwhelm you. Break it down step by step. Use the resources available. Connect with others on the same journey.
E go hard, but e go possible!
Wishing you all the very best. Stay focused, avoid scammers, and remember exactly why you started this journey. You truly got this!