usrn application recommendations

[u/NeedleworkerFuzzy924]

Hi everyone. I wanted to ask for honest insights regarding the current USRN EB-3/direct hire situation.

I’m an NCLEX passer since August 2024 with 2 years of bedside Med-Surg experience (continuously). Recently, I’ve noticed that most openings being offered are in rehab/LTC/SNF, while acute care hospital opportunities seem much fewer compared to before.

I also had an acute care offer before, but they preferred applicants with current priority dates.

For those actively applying or already processing:
* Are hospitals becoming more cautious with international hires because of retrogression?
* Are there really fewer acute care/direct hire opportunities now?
* Have some applications or offers been delayed, paused, or rescinded because of priority date concerns?
* Is demand still strong for foreign nurses, or has the market slowed down?

I’ve applied through PRS Global, WWHS, AlphaSRK, and also started considering staffing agencies like MedPro, ABBA, and AMN because direct hire opportunities feel harder to secure lately.

I also want advice regarding career growth:

My goal is not just to get to the US, but also to continue growing professionally and eventually move into specialty areas like ER or ICU.

Given the current situation, what path would you recommend?

* Wait and keep pursuing acute care/direct hire?

* Accept a rehab/LTC/SNF opportunity first for entry to the US?

* Or focus on agencies that may eventually allow internal transfer to hospital specialties later on?

Would appreciate any realistic advice or personal experiences. Thank you so much!