From Lagos to Los Angeles: How Nigerian Nurses Can Earn Up to $150,000 Annually in the U.S

In today’s global healthcare industry, nursing remains one of the most in-demand and rewarding professions. For many Nigerian nurses, however, the reality at home doesn’t reflect the dignity of the role. Low pay, tough working conditions, and limited career growth continue to frustrate many who entered the field with passion and purpose.

Yet, beyond the borders of Nigeria lies a land of opportunity particularly in the United States where nurses are not only respected but generously compensated. For those who follow the right pathway, the chance to earn upwards of $150,000 annually is not a fantasy, but a tangible, achievable goal.

Here’s how Nigerian nurses or those planning to become one can transition to practicing in the U.S., climb the career ladder, and tap into one of the most lucrative branches of global healthcare.

Why U.S. Nursing is So Attractive

The United States is experiencing a severe nursing shortage due to an aging population, increasing chronic illnesses, and a limited number of trained professionals. This demand translates into excellent job security, competitive salaries, and vast career development opportunities. Unlike Nigeria, where nurses may struggle on meager monthly wages, a U.S. registered nurse can earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually—with specialist nurses earning up to $150,000 or more.

But how exactly can a Nigerian nurse plug into this booming system?

Step-by-Step Guide: Transitioning from Nigeria to the U.S. Nursing Field

1. Have the Right Academic Foundation

Most Nigerian nurses start with either a diploma, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from accredited Nigerian institutions. However, to be eligible to practice in the U.S., a BSN or its equivalent is typically the minimum requirement.
• If you have a Diploma or ADN: You’ll need to enroll in a bridging program to upgrade to a BSN level.
• If you already have a BSN: You can begin the transition process straight away by initiating the U.S. licensure procedure.

2. Credential Evaluation

Before you’re eligible to apply for licensure in the U.S., your educational qualifications must be evaluated by an authorized body. The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) is the most widely recognized agency for this.

You’ll be required to submit:
• Academic transcripts from both your secondary and nursing schools
• Verification of your nursing license from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)

Cost: Credential evaluation through CGFNS costs $485.

3. Prove Your English Proficiency

Although English is Nigeria’s official language, U.S. regulations still mandate proof of English fluency. You’ll need to pass one of the following:
• TOEFL
• IELTS Academic

Cost: These exams typically range from $150–$250.

4. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

This is the gold standard exam that all nurses must pass to practice in the United States. It tests knowledge of core nursing concepts, clinical reasoning, and safe patient care.

Cost: The NCLEX-RN exam costs $200, plus an international scheduling fee of around $150 if taken outside the U.S.

5. Apply for State Licensure

Each U.S. state has its own Board of Nursing, which issues licenses to qualified candidates. After completing the NCLEX and credential evaluation, you must apply directly to your chosen state’s board.

Cost: Licensing fees vary by state, typically ranging from $100 to $300.

6. Obtain Your U.S. Work Visa

To legally work in the United States, Nigerian nurses will need to secure a visa most commonly an EB-3 visa for skilled workers, which is often sponsored by a U.S.-based healthcare employer.

You’ll also need to complete the VisaScreen® Certification, a screening program that verifies your education, license, English language proficiency, and overall readiness to work as a healthcare professional in the U.S.

Cost: VisaScreen® Certification costs around $740.

What if You’re Not Yet a Nurse?

If you’re still in Nigeria and interested in pursuing nursing from scratch, there are two clear pathways:
1. Study Nursing in Nigeria: Enroll in a BSN program at an accredited Nigerian university, graduate, and follow the U.S. transition steps listed above.
2. Study Nursing in the U.S.: Enroll directly into a U.S. nursing school. After graduation, you’ll sit for the NCLEX-RN and begin practicing within the country.

How to Hit the $150,000 Mark: Specialize

To move beyond the average RN salary and tap into higher earnings, specialization is key. Here are some of the most lucrative nursing specialities in the U.S.:
• Nurse Anesthetists
• Nurse Practitioners
• Nurse Midwives
• Critical Care / ICU Nurses
• Oncology Nurses
• Pediatric Nurses
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurses

Each specialty typically requires either a Master’s or Doctoral Degree, plus certification by relevant U.S. bodies like:
• American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
• National Certification Corporation (NCC)

Estimated salary: $90,000–$150,000+ annually, depending on location and field.

Important: New Nigerian Government Rule

In recent years, the Nigerian government has introduced a policy requiring nurses to complete at least two years of local clinical practice before they’re allowed to practice abroad. This policy aims to address the massive brain drain affecting the Nigerian healthcare system, though it has sparked mixed reactions.

While some believe it helps stabilize the local sector, others see it as a bureaucratic hurdle in their journey to greener pastures.

In Summary: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The process may seem rigorous and it is; but the payoff can be life-changing. From boosting your earning power to accessing world-class facilities and global career mobility, the U.S. nursing path offers a future filled with possibilities.

If you’re a Nigerian nurse dreaming of something bigger, now is the time to act. Start planning, saving, and preparing; your six-figure future might just be a few exams and documents away.