March 14, 2025 | Fellow Nurses Africa News Desk
The U.S. visa retrogression has left thousands of internationally trained nurses uncertain about their future—but Interstaff is flipping the script with its Pre-NCLEX Sponsorship Program.
During a power-packed virtual event hosted by Decency NCLEX Academy, nurses worldwide learned how this groundbreaking initiative is helping nurses bypass delays, secure sponsorship, and stay on track for U.S. relocation.
With many agencies abandoning nurses when retrogression slows visa processing, Interstaff is doing the opposite—investing in nurses NOW so they’re fully prepared when things speed up again.
The Reality of U.S. Visa Retrogression And How Nurses Can Overcome It
For years, the EB-3 (Employment-Based Third Preference) visa has been the standard pathway for nurses migrating to the U.S. But with the backlog causing delays, many professionals are left wondering what’s next.
Instead of waiting in limbo, Interstaff is giving nurses new options to move forward—including financial support, alternative visa pathways, and guidance throughout the process.
“Retrogression is not the end of the road,” emphasized Mr. Madison Moore, Vice President of Nurse Experience at Interstaff. “It’s an opportunity to prepare, pass your NCLEX, and explore other visa options so you’re ahead of the game when things open up.”
Alternative Visa Routes: More Than Just EB-3
During the session, Mr. Moore and Ms. Jen Smith, Director of Programs at Interstaff, unveiled FOUR visa options that can help nurses continue their journey despite EB-3 delays:
1. EB-3 (Green Card Route) – The Classic Path
- Requires BSN or equivalent, NCLEX-RN, and hospital experience.
- Retrogression may slow down processing, but nurses should prepare now to be ready when the backlog clears.
2. F-1 Student Visa – The Secret Weapon!
- Nurses can study in the U.S. while gaining work authorization via OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training).
- Interstaff is covering the first-year tuition fees for nurses who take this route
3. TN Visa – Fast-Track for Canadians & Mexicans
- Available to nurses from Canada and Mexico under the USMCA trade agreement.
- No numerical cap, making it one of the quickest options.
4. H-1B Visa – For Advanced Practice Nurses
- Ideal for Nurse Practitioners and highly specialized nurses.
- Requires employer sponsorship and may be subject to the visa lottery unless cap-exempt.
- Big News: Interstaff is submitting 100 nurses for the H-1B lottery this year
Unmatched Benefits: Why Interstaff Stands Out
Unlike many agencies that charge processing fees or deduct wages, Interstaff is fully funding key parts of the process, ensuring nurses can focus on passing their NCLEX and preparing for U.S. work.
âś… NCLEX Review & Exam Sponsorship (covering over 85% of fees!)
âś… $8,000 NCLEX bonus, paid throughout employment
âś… No processing fees or paycheck deductions
âś… Dedicated Processing Officer assigned to each nurse
âś… Spouse & family relocation support (including spouse job placement and school assistance for children)
“We don’t just recruit—we mentor, guide, and support our nurses every step of the way,” emphasized Ms. Smith.
After the event, our correspondent spoke with Mr. Decency Onyekachi, Director of Decency NCLEX Academy, about why nurses should see this retrogression period as an opportunity rather than a setback.
“Too many nurses are left stranded because they don’t have a backup plan,” he stated. “Interstaff’s approach is different. They’re funding NCLEX prep, offering alternative visa routes, and ensuring that nurses don’t just wait—but actually make progress in their careers.”
He also encouraged nurses to take advantage of the F-1 visa sponsorship and NCLEX support while waiting for EB-3 processing to resume. “A delay is not a denial. Those who prepare now will be the first to move when things open up,” he added.
Ready to Start Your U.S. Nursing Journey? Apply Now!
If you meet the qualifications for the EB-3 visa program, don’t wait—get started now!
đź”— Apply Here for EB-3 Sponsorship
With retrogression slowing things down, nurses who use this time wisely will be at the front of the line when visa approvals speed up again.
Stay tuned to Fellow Nurses Africa for more breaking nursing career updates, immigration news, and opportunities for nurses worldwide!
Charles Wealth is an accomplished healthcare administrator with decades of hands-on experience across various healthcare organizations in Nigeria and beyond. Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession, Charles brings a wealth of expertise to healthcare management, policy, and professional development.
As a co-founder and Editor at Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a pivotal role in shaping content that educates, inspires, and unites nurses across the continent. His editorial vision focuses on amplifying the voices of nurses, highlighting best practices, addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, and promoting professional growth within the nursing community.
With a strong background in healthcare administration, Charles is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and effective leadership. He continues to contribute significantly to the development of robust healthcare systems and the empowerment of nurses through knowledge sharing and advocacy.
