In a significant development affecting international nurses and healthcare professionals, the U.S. Department of State has announced a critical change to the validity period of Visa Screen certificates required for visa applications. At VisaMadeEZ, we specialize in guiding healthcare organizations through every immigration step, and we're here to break down what this means for both employers and foreign-educated nurses seeking to work in the United States.
What Has Changed with the Visa Screen Certificate?
Effective July 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of State now only accepts Visa Screen certificates that are valid at the time the visa is issued not at the time the visa application is submitted. Previously, applicants could apply for a visa as long as their Visa Screen certificate was valid at the time of the interview, even if the certificate expired before the visa was officially issued.
This policy change affects all nurse immigration cases, including those using the popular EB-3 visa for registered nurses and other healthcare professionals. The change also impacts green card ("immigrant visa") applications processed at U.S. consulates worldwide.
Why Is the Visa Screen Certificate So Important?
The Visa Screen, administered by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) and other credentialing organizations, is a crucial step for foreign-trained nurses. It verifies that international nurses meet U.S. standards in education, licensure, and English language proficiency key criteria for successful nurse immigration to the United States.
A valid Visa Screen is required for several immigration processes, including:
- EB-3 green card applications for registered nurses
- Consular processing and immigrant visa interviews at U.S. embassies and consulates
- Adjustment of status applications filed within the United States
Implications for Employers and International Nurses
This new U.S. Department of State policy creates new responsibilities for both healthcare employers and international nurse candidates:
1. Timing is Critical: It's now essential for foreign nurses to ensure their Visa Screen certificate is valid not just at the start of their visa application but all the way through the date the actual visa is approved and issued.
2. Delays Can Impact Validity: Unexpected administrative processing or backlogs at U.S. consulates could cause the Visa Screen to expire before the visa is issued, resulting in denied visa cases and the need for reapplication which can mean months of extra waiting.
3. Proactive Planning Required: Healthcare organizations and international nurses must plan ahead, renewing or extending the Visa Screen certificate well before expiration, especially if their priority date is close or processing times are lengthy.
VisaMadeEZ’s Advice for Healthcare Immigration Success
At VisaMadeEZ, our experienced immigration attorneys help U.S. healthcare employers and international nurses navigate complex U.S. nurse immigration requirements. Based on this policy update, we strongly recommend the following steps for seamless nurse hiring:
- Check Visa Screen Status Frequently: Monitor the expiration date of your Visa Screen and renew it six months before it expires.
- Coordinate with Your Immigration Attorney: Early and regular communication can prevent costly delays or denials.
- Stay Informed: U.S. immigration regulations are constantly changing. Rely on trusted sources and legal counsel to keep your case on track.
Conclusion
The reduction in Visa Screen certificate validity at the visa issuance stage is an important policy change for any healthcare organization hiring foreign nurses and healthcare workers. With careful planning and expert support, international nurses can still achieve their American career goals and healthcare employers can continue to meet urgent staffing needs.
If you have questions about this visa policy update or need help with nurse immigration, contact VisaMadeEZ. Our team of immigration experts stands ready to help you successfully hire and relocate international nurses for your organization.
