2 Stage 2 of 5

Ready to apply to US nursing agencies and hospitals

This stage is for Kenyan nurses who are ready to apply to a US nurse staffing agency or a hospital that hires international nurses — so you can come to the United States to work as a nurse.

  • Path A, an agency: a staffing agency sponsors you and places you at a US hospital. Some, like Avant, accept nurses before the NCLEX.
  • Path B, a hospital directly: some US health systems hire and sponsor international nurses themselves. Most want the NCLEX passed first.
  • Know the pay. See what nurses get paid in the US: agency starting rates, staff pay by state and travel pay.
  • Never pay a placement fee. Ask for the full contract and a written list of early-exit costs before you sign. You can also practice a clinical screening exam.

Who this is for

Nurses registered with the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK), usually with bedside experience, who have passed the NCLEX-RN or are close. Some agencies accept applications before the NCLEX; many direct-hire hospitals want it passed first.

What applying involves

You typically send a CV, licences and often a skills checklist, then do interviews by phone or video. Many agencies also give a clinical screening or competency test. If you receive an offer, read the full contract before you sign. Exams, paperwork and the visa come next.

Common pitfalls

Never pay a placement fee. Get the full contract and a written list of early-exit costs and who pays for what (exams, flights, housing). Be careful with anyone who rushes you to sign, or who asks you to send money or original documents up front.

After you sign up, you can compare agencies and hospitals and book a free, agency-neutral application call. You can also practice a clinical screening exam at any time. Practice only; it is not the actual exam and is not affiliated with any agency or testing company.

US nursing agencies compared

What each agency publishes about contract length, early-exit fees and who pays for what. "Not published" means it wasn't on their official pages, so ask them in writing.

Free one-on-one help with your application

If you are qualified and have the requirements, you can schedule a free call to speak with one of our staff, or with a nurse in the USA, for help applying to any US nurse staffing agency or employer. We'll help you avoid major pitfalls in your application. This call is free and separate from the paid consult.

Avant is one option, and we can also refer you there if it is a fit.

Schedule a free application call to speak with one of our staff Qualified and have all the requirements? We'll help you apply for free — to any US nurse staffing agency or employer — so you avoid major pitfalls in your application.

Qualified and have all the requirements? We'll help you apply for free — to any US nurse staffing agency or employer — so you avoid major pitfalls in your application.

How we compare agencies
  • Official pages first. Facts come from each agency's own website, with a link. Court records, government sources and news are labelled as such.
  • Reported experiences are labelled. Where we quote nurse reviews or interviews, we mark them "Reported" — they are one person's experience, not company policy.
  • What matters most to you: contract length, early-exit (breach) costs, who pays for exams, visa and flights, pay, where you'll work, and whether they accept Kenyan nurses.
  • No guessing. If an agency doesn't publish something, we say "Not published". Ask them for it in writing.
  • Lawsuits are stated factually, with their status (for example "settled" or "ongoing"), not as proof of wrongdoing.

Side-by-side comparison

The same 22 questions answered for every agency, so you can compare directly. Tap an agency name for its full card and sources. "Reported" = shared by nurses, not stated by the agency.

FeatureAvantConexus MedStaffO'Grady Peyton (AMN)PassportUSA (Health Carousel)MedPro InternationalInterstaffADEX Medical StaffingConnetics USA (AMN)WorldWide HealthStaff
Who employs youAvant (staffing agency)Conexus (staffing agency)O'Grady Peyton (staffing agency)Health Carousel (staffing agency)MedPro (staffing agency)Interstaff (staffing agency)ADEX (staffing agency)The hospital (direct hire)The hospital (direct hire)
Contract length5,200 hours (current offer)5,000 hours with NCLEX passed; 6,000 without (2024 blog)3 years6,240 hours (overtime and orientation count)6,000 hrs or 36 months; 5,000 hrs or 30 months if NCLEX passedNot published (lawsuit alleges 3 years / 6,240 hrs)Not publishedSet by each hospitalMost are 36 months
Leaving earlySome costs repayable; amount Not published. 2026 settlement: no liquidated damages (reported)Not publishedNot publishedActual itemised costs only, prorated (court settlement)Must reimburse MedPro; amount Not publishedNot published (lawsuit alleges $25k–$150k)Not publishedNot publishedNot published
NCLEX needed to apply?NoYesUnclear (pages differ)YesNoNoNot publishedNoYes
NCLEX prep & exam feeFull review program and exam fee paid*NCLEX bonus or sponsorshipPrep materials, practice exams, seminars; exam fee Not publishedMust already have passedMedProU training; exam fees and travel paid*Free 3-month UWorld review; exam sponsoredNot publishedGuidance; fees Not publishedMust already have passed
English test supportNot needed to apply; support Not publishedIELTS review and test sponsored (partner page)Extra English training is at your costPrep provided; exam reimbursedMedProU English prep; fees paid*Free IELTS review; you pay the IELTS feeNot publishedReported free English lecturesNeeded later; support Not published
Your visa & legal feesVisa filing and processing fees paid*; some costs are yours (listed at interview)No fees, it says; partner page lists filing, NVC, legal, embassy and medical fees as coveredPetition fee and VisaScreen paid; you pay NVC, green-card, embassy and medical feesImmigration fees incl. visa filing paid"The majority" covered*"Extensive coverage" of visa fees; you pay the CES reportAll immigration, attorney and government fees, plus VisaScreenEmployers pay agency fees; who pays visa costs Not publishedNo placement fees; who pays visa costs Not published
Family visasSpouse and children under 21 included; Reported nurse paid family fees and flightsSpouse and children included; costs Not publishedFamily pays its own NVC, embassy and medical feesFamily can arrive with you; costs Not publishedSpouse and children included in filing*Family paperwork handled; you pay their visa feesNot publishedSpouse and children included; costs Not publishedFamily can come; dependents pay their own flights
Flight to the USPaid*, to Orlando and then to your assignmentFlight reimbursedNot publishedPaid airfarePaid, to orientation in FloridaFree flight booked for youAll deployment airfare paidNot published (travel coordinated)Paid by employer per contract; Uber voucher from airport
Arrival training5-week Clinical & Cultural Transitions Program in Orlando with skills lab"U.S. Ready" program; Reported 8–12 weeks of hospital orientation, with orientation payPre-arrival preparation; details Not publishedTransition-to-practice, orientation and precepting; paid at full rateMedProU orientation in Sunrise, Florida, with simulation labGroup orientation on arrival; 6–10 weeks of hospital orientationClinical adaptation and simulation trainingPre-arrival clinical modules; hospital orientationEmployer HR and nursing orientation
Temporary housingHousing assistance; Reported about 6 weeks of lodging during Florida trainingFirst 30 days (partner page); temporary housing helpRelocation Specialist helps you research housingHelp securing housing, plus a cash arrival advanceHousing and transport during orientationFirst month's rent, essential furniture and a relocation paymentInterim housing during orientationHelp finding housing near workTemporary housing arranged by a Relocation Advisor
Airport pickup & local guidePersonal Trip Support Specialist travels with you and helps you settle; Reported hospital meet-and-greet with meals paidManager meets you at the airport; local supportMeet-and-greet representative for your first weekWelcomed at the airportTeam you meet at orientation; pickup Not publishedCoordinator meets you and stays 4–5 days; nurse dinnerNot publishedAirport pickup and grocery stopUber voucher; pickup depends on employer
Driver's licence helpCovered in cultural training; Reported paid driving classes (extra lessons at your cost)YesYesYesNot publishedDMV visit if time allowsNot publishedNot publishedNot published
BLS / ACLSAll Avant RNs are BLS and ACLS certified; Reported training providedNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedACLS, BLS and PALS trainingNot publishedNot publishedNot publishedNot published
Car, credit & bankingAuto purchase program, vehicle financing support, credit card assistance; Reported via Advancial credit unionBank account helpBank account, car purchase and car insurance helpBank account helpFinancial education and budgetingBank, phone and car contacts; account openingNot publishedAdvancial account (set-up paid), car loans and credit cardAdvancial partner account; car-buying partner
Bonuses$10,000 completion bonus (eligible NCLEX passers; terms apply)$5,000 NCLEX signing bonusNot publishedNot publishedSign-on bonus up to $7,000Relocation payment (amount Not published)"Commitment bonus" (amount Not published)Not publishedSign-on bonus on some jobs
Pay$35/hr guaranteed minimum (NCLEX passers)$26–$39/hr (partner page; date Not published)Not publishedNot published; raises at 90 days, 1, 2 and 3 yearsNot published; raises at 12, 18 and 30 monthsNot published; annual raisesNot publishedSame as US staff (claimed)Example listing: $27–$50/hr
Health insuranceMedical, dental, vision and lifeMedical, dental, visionHealth and dentalPremium medical, dental, visionHealth, dental, vision, life, disabilityHealth and lifeSubsidised health; $15,000 life coverHospital's packageHospital's package
Paid time offYes, plus holidaysYesNot published120 hours a yearYesNot publishedYesHospital's packageYes (employer)
401(k)YesYes, with matchRetirement planYes, with matchYes, with matchNot publishedYesHospital's packageYes (employer)
Choose your location?Matched to specialty; choice Not publishedYou have inputAsks for "full location flexibility"Yes, preferences consideredSeveral options offeredDepends on openingsOne hospital for the whole contractWide choiceChoose from jobs in its app
Kenyan nursesYes (Kenya page)Yes (Kenya guide)Not statedNot statedNot statedYes (Kenya page)Not statedNot statedNot stated

Swipe or scroll sideways to see every column. * = covered only if you complete the contract.

Agency details

Avant Healthcare Professionals

Staffing agency (Avant employs you)Accepts Kenyan nurses
Contract length
5,200 hours, per Avant's current Kenya and apply pages. Older contracts were longer (see details).
Early-exit cost
Avant says: "There are no costs for our services if you complete your contract with us." If you leave early, the amount owed is Not published. Under a 2026 class settlement, Avant agreed not to seek liquidated damages or lost profits but may still seek certain recruitment costs (reported).
Avant pays
NCLEX-RN review program and exam fees*; licensure application fees*; visa application and processing fees*; immigration case management by its legal partner*; family visa support for a spouse and children under 21; flights to the US and on to your assignment*; the Orlando Transitions Program.
You pay
Some immigration costs — Avant gives you a document listing them at the interview stage. Family members' fees and flights (reported by a Kenyan Avant nurse).
Pay
NCLEX passers: "$35/hour guaranteed minimum pay" plus a $10,000 Completion Bonus for eligible new applicants (terms apply).
Arrival & transition support
Confirmed by Avant:
  • Paid flight to Orlando, Florida, followed by a five-week Clinical and Cultural Transitions Program (described as 5–6 weeks in its applicant guide).
  • Hands-on clinical training in a simulated hospital skills lab, aligned with US practice standards.
  • Practical life-skills training covering housing, driving and obtaining a US driver's licence, personal finances and community resources.
  • BLS and ACLS certification for all Avant registered nurses.
  • Paid onward flight to your assignment, with a personal Trip Support Specialist who accompanies you as you settle in.
  • Help finding a home, an auto purchase program with vehicle financing support, and a credit card assistance program.
Reported by nurses who went through Avant (not stated by Avant):
  • The roughly six-week orientation is paid, and accommodation in Florida is provided for its duration.
  • Driving lessons are paid for; any additional lessons beyond those covered are at the nurse's own cost.
  • BLS and ACLS training is delivered during orientation.
  • The guide travels with you to your new city, shows you around, and helps you secure a car and housing; a welcome meet-and-greet at the hospital includes meals.
  • Car loans and a credit card are arranged through Advancial Federal Credit Union.
Full benefits, requirements and sources
NCLEX & English
NCLEX and IELTS not needed to apply. Comprehensive NCLEX-RN review* with instructors, modules, webinars and practice exams; personalised coaching; Avant reports a 75% first-time pass rate. A "six to seven-month intensive" review is described on its blog.
Relocation
Paid airfare to the US and to your place of assignment*; an Avant team member meets you on arrival; housing assistance and arrival coordination; local orientation to your new community.
Training
Pre-arrival virtual program (up to 8 months before arrival), then the Orlando Transitions Program above. Reported: a Kenyan Avant nurse described a 6-week clinical and cultural program on arrival.
Benefits
Full-time employment; medical, dental and vision insurance; life insurance; 401(k); paid time off and holidays; credit card assistance program; auto purchase program; dedicated HR specialist and clinical support; guidance for permanent job offers; advanced nursing education opportunities.
Visa
Mostly EB-3 green card; select candidates H-1B, TN or EB-2. Spouse and children under 21 can be included. VisaScreen is required.
Placement type
"Not a travel nursing company": direct hire and long-term staffing assignments at hospitals from critical access to academic centres. Placement matches your specialty; choosing your location Not published.
Experience
3+ months; currently working 36+ hours/week at the bedside in an acute inpatient unit of a hospital with 50+ beds. Nurses with a gap in experience can still apply.
Where placed
Not published. Reported by nurses/court filings: Maine, Vermont, South Dakota, Georgia, Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Florida.
Credit union
Advancial Federal Credit Union runs an "Inbound USA" program offering accounts, credit cards and auto loans to newly arrived international workers without an SSN or US credit history; whether Avant uses it is reported by nurses, not stated by Avant.
Older contracts
Reported: a 2022 Avant agreement posted online shows 6,240 hours, a $32/hour minimum, $1 raises at 2,080 and 4,160 hours, and sign-on bonuses for CGFNS ($1,500) and IELTS. A South African Avant nurse said pay was $35–$45/hour depending on state and unit, and NCLEX-sponsored nurses signed 3-year contracts.
Nurse reviews
Reported (Indeed 3.9/5, Glassdoor 3.7/5): praise for the transitions program, NCLEX and visa support; complaints about low base pay, long contract hours and unclear rules for ending a contract early.
Court case
Byron v. Avant Healthcare Professionals (filed Aug 2023, M.D. Fla.) alleged five-figure exit charges and immigration threats. A $3M settlement for 5,219 workers was agreed in June 2026 and approved in July 2026 in Florida state court; certain unpaid fees were waived. Avant denied wrongdoing. Status: settled (reported).
* Condition
Items marked * are covered on condition that you complete the contract, per Avant's own footnote.

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): Kenya page · Apply page ($35/hr, 5,200 hrs) · Program benefits · Program overview · Start here guide · BLS/ACLS (workforce page) · Blog: driver's licence training · Advancial Inbound USA · FAQ · Blog: NCLEX review · Kenyan nurse story · 2022 agreement (reported) · Nurse interview (reported) · Indeed reviews · Glassdoor reviews · Settlement (news) · Court docket

Applying with Avant?

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support. We can help with Avant or any other US staffing agency or employer.

Or apply on Avant's website

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Conexus MedStaff

Staffing agency (Conexus employs you)Accepts Kenyan nurses
Contract length
5,000 hours if you have already passed the NCLEX; 6,000 hours if not (Conexus blog, May 2024). One assignment for the whole contract (partner page).
Early-exit cost
Not published
Conexus pays
Files your EB-3 (I-140) petition; dependent visas for spouse and children under 21; Conexus Academy education is free; relocation team arranges travel and accommodation (who pays for travel: Not published).
You pay
"You don't pay any recruitment fees… There are no upfront costs… Nor do we take any money from paychecks." Other costs (e.g. NVC, medical): Not published.
Pay
$5,000 signing bonus for NCLEX passers; orientation pay; overtime at 1.5×. A Philippine partner agency lists base pay of $26–$39/hour and a wellness bonus of $1 per hour worked (date Not published).
Arrival & transition support
Relocation team arranges travel and accommodation (partner page: first 30 days); flight reimbursement; a Conexus manager meets you and your family at the airport; help with bank accounts and a driver's licence; "U.S. Ready" clinical education program; partner page cites 8–12 weeks of clinical orientation at your hospital.
Benefits
Paid time off; 401(k) with employer match; medical, dental and vision insurance; malpractice insurance; free continuing education; licensure reimbursement; milestone incentives.
More details and sources
NCLEX & English
NCLEX-RN required before applying. Personalised learning plan from its education team while your petition processes; English support Not published.
Relocation
Meets you at the airport; temporary housing assistance; help finding permanent housing, bank accounts and a driver's licence.
Placement type
Assigned to a client hospital; you have input on location (urban/suburban/rural), specialty and facility size.
Experience
Currently working inpatient, or willing to return to inpatient within 90 days of signing.
Where placed
"Hospitals across multiple states"; specific states Not published.
Timeline
12–24 months from application to arrival (Conexus estimate).

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): International nurses + FAQ · Kenya guide (Mar 2026) · Blog: contract hours & bonus (May 2024) · Partner agency package (Universal Staffing)

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

O'Grady Peyton (AMN)

Staffing agencyKenya: not stated
Contract length
"You sign an official O'Grady Peyton contract for 3 years."
Early-exit cost
Not published (the FAQ is silent).
O'Grady pays
Filing fee for your green-card petition; your VisaScreen application; NCLEX prep materials, practice exams and seminars.
You pay
NVC fees, USCIS green-card fee, embassy and medical charges for you and your family; any extra English or school training needed for VisaScreen.
Pay
Not published ("depends on experience, specialty and location").
Arrival & transition support
Relocation Specialist from about six weeks before travel; a meet-and-greet representative in your first week to help open a bank account, buy household items, get a driver's licence and, if needed, buy and insure a car. Flight and temporary housing costs: Not published.
More details and sources
NCLEX before applying?
Unclear: the FAQ says you must have passed; the program page says you can apply while preparing.
Relocation
A Relocation Specialist contacts you ~6 weeks before travel to help research housing, transport and schools; a meet-and-greet representative helps in week one (bank, driver's licence, car). Who pays the flight: Not published.
Benefits
Health and dental insurance, professional liability insurance, retirement plan, free continuing education.
Placement type
Staffing assignments; "we do ask for full location flexibility". After the contract you may join the hospital or move anywhere.
Experience
At least 12 months in a clinical setting.
Timeline
About 12–24 months from acceptance to starting work.

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): FAQ · USA program

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

PassportUSA (Health Carousel)

Staffing agency (Health Carousel employs you)Kenya: not stated
Contract length
"Your assignment will be 6,240 hours." Orientation and overtime hours count toward it.
Early-exit cost
Under the 2025 court settlement, Health Carousel may recover only actual, itemised costs, prorated by hours worked — no liquidated damages (court records/trade press). The complaint said earlier charges were $20,000–$35,000.
HCI pays
"We will cover the fees for your immigration including the visa filing"; English test prep and exam reimbursed; help obtaining VisaScreen; travel booked by its Travel and Housing team.
You pay
"We do not charge any fees." Other costs Not published.
Arrival & transition support
Paid airfare and travel logistics; help securing housing; a cash arrival advance for you and your family; airport welcome; help getting a driver's licence and opening a bank account; transition-to-practice program, orientation and precepting at your hospital; reimbursed US licensure costs.
Pay
Rate Not published. Orientation paid at your normal rate; overtime at least 1.5×; merit raises at 90 days, 1, 2 and 3 years; hours guaranteed by client agreement.
More details and sources
NCLEX & English
NCLEX must be passed before applying. English exam not needed to apply; prep support and reimbursement provided, but visa filing is prioritised for nurses with a valid English exam.
Benefits
"Premium" medical, dental and vision insurance; employee assistance program; 401(k) with match; 120 hours of PTO a year; clinical ladder and work-study program.
Placement type
Assignments mostly at acute care hospitals; "you can choose your assignment location" (preferences considered in matching). 3–4 shifts, 36–40 hours a week.
Kenya?
No country list. HCI says it does not recruit from WHO Safeguards List countries; Kenya is not on the WHO 2023 list, but ask the recruiter directly.
Court case
Carmen v. Health Carousel (S.D. Ohio No. 1:20-cv-313). $6.1M settlement approved 24 March 2025. Status: settled.

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): FAQs · Program overview · Settlement (trade press) · WHO Safeguards List 2023

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

MedPro International

Staffing agency (MedPro employs you)Kenya: not stated
Contract length
6,000 hours or 36 months, whichever comes first. NCLEX passers (Fast-Track): 5,000 hours or 30 months.
Early-exit cost
If you leave early you must "reimburse MedPro for the services". Amount and proration: Not published.
MedPro pays
"The majority" of visa and green-card costs, including spouse and children in your filing*; NCLEX and English exam fees, training and travel costs*; MedProU training*.
You pay
Whatever isn't in "the majority" — which costs: Not published.
Pay
"Premium hourly wage" with raises at 12, 18 and 30 months; sign-on bonus up to $7,000. Rate Not published.
Arrival & transition support
Flight from home to Sunrise, Florida, for MedProU orientation, with modern housing and daily transport; simulation-lab training; ACLS, BLS and PALS certification; US life-skills training (budgeting, housing, childcare); an Employee Relations Manager once you start work.
More details and sources
NCLEX & English
Not needed for the standard program. MedProU provides NCLEX and English exam training.
Relocation
Flies you from home to Sunrise, Florida, for orientation, with housing and daily transport during it. Housing at your assignment: Not published.
Benefits
PTO; health, dental, vision; life and disability insurance; 401(k) with match; ACLS/BLS/PALS training.
Placement type
Assignment at a client facility, "numerous geographic and clinical setting options". Non-cap H-1B and green card routes.
* Condition
Covered as long as you complete your commitment, per MedPro's own footnote.

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): Registered nurses

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Interstaff

Staffing agency (Interstaff employs you)Recruits in Kenya
Contract length
Not published on its site. A federal lawsuit by a Kenyan nurse alleges 3 years and 6,240 hours (allegation).
Early-exit cost
Not published. The lawsuit alleges penalties of $25,000 to $150,000 (allegation, not proven).
Interstaff pays
NCLEX exam sponsorship; free 3-month UWorld NCLEX review; free IELTS review; files your I-140; "extensive coverage of visa-related fees"; handles family immigration paperwork.
You pay
"A few costs" such as the CES report and IELTS fees; your family's visa fees. No processing fee or paycheck withholding, it says.
Pay
Rate Not published; "annual raises, cost-of-living reviews".
Arrival & transition support
Free flight to the US; a relocation payment on arrival; first month's rent paid; essential furniture (bed, dining set, couch); occupational health and licensing fees to start work; an Employee Services Coordinator who meets you at the airport and stays 4–5 days to help with your apartment, bank account, phone, groceries and (if time allows) the DMV and schools; meals and hotel while they are with you; 6–10 weeks of hospital orientation; mentorship, peer and city-ambassador programs.
More details and sources
NCLEX & English
Neither NCLEX nor IELTS needed to apply.
Experience
BSN or diploma RN; 1 year of current bedside experience, full-time in a 100+ bed acute inpatient hospital.
Benefits
Health and life insurance, workers' compensation, professional liability. PTO and 401(k): Not published.
Where placed
"Hospitals all across the United States", depending on openings.
Court case
Nyawara v. Interstaff, Inc. (S.D. Tex. No. 4:25-cv-5992), forced-labour (TVPRA) and wage claims. On 10 July 2026 the court refused to dismiss the case. Status: ongoing. These are allegations, not findings.

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): EB-3 program + FAQ · Kenya page · Relocation package · FAQ part II · Orientation · Community programs · Court opinion, 10 Jul 2026

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

ADEX Medical Staffing

Staffing agency (ADEX employs you)Kenya: not stated
Contract length
Not published on current pages ("hourly contracts"; one hospital for the whole contract).
Early-exit cost
Not published
ADEX pays
All immigration fees, attorney's fees and government processing fees; VisaScreen application; all licensure endorsement fees; all deployment airfare (US arrival + jobsite).
You pay
"No Fees. Ever." Other costs Not published.
Pay
Rate Not published. "Significant Commitment Bonus (no conditions)" — amount Not published.
More details and sources
Arrival & transition support
All deployment airfare; interim housing during orientation, onboarding and training; clinical adaptation and simulation training. Airport pickup, driving and banking help: Not published on current pages.
Benefits
PTO, subsidised health insurance, $15,000 life insurance, 401(k), malpractice and workers' comp insurance.
Placement type
Acute care / tertiary hospitals only; no nursing homes.
Kenya?
Pages target the Philippines, Nepal and Southeast Asia; Kenya not mentioned. Ask before applying.

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): Home · Benefits page

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Connetics USA (AMN)

Direct hire: the hospital sponsors and employs youKenya: not stated
Contract length
Not published (set by each hospital).
Early-exit cost
Not published
Employer pays
Employers pay Connetics' fees; the hospital sponsors your and your family's green card.
You pay
"Nothing! …Employers… pay our fees." Immigration/exam costs split: Not published.
Pay
"The same pay and benefits as an American nurse" (claimed). Rate Not published.
Arrival & transition support
"Circle of Support": airport pickup and a first grocery stop; help finding safe, affordable housing near work; travel coordination; pre-arrival clinical modules; alumni "Angel Network" and buddies; an Advancial Federal Credit Union account (Connetics pays the set-up fee) with access to car loans and a credit card without US credit history.
More details and sources
NCLEX before applying?
Not needed to start; team guides you. Reported in a testimonial: free English lectures before the exam.
Placement type
Permanent staff at hospitals, rehab and long-term care facilities "throughout the United States".

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): Candidates · Circle of Support · Housing & relocation · Advancial session

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions (WWHS)

Direct hire, permanent placementKenya: not stated
Contract length
"Most of our employers' contracts are 36 months."
Early-exit cost
Not published
Employer pays
"Per your contract, your flight should be paid for by your employer."
You pay
No staffing or placement fees. Dependents' travel is yours. Licence fees vary by state.
Pay
Not published (depends on experience and location). One South Carolina listing showed $27–$50/hour with a sign-on bonus.
Arrival & transition support
A dedicated Relocation Advisor: initial transportation (an Uber voucher from the airport), temporary housing, apartment search, bank account application, employer onboarding and reimbursement help; partner account with Advancial credit union; car-buying partner. Airport pickup depends on the employer.
More details and sources
Experience
NCLEX passed and at least 1 year of current inpatient bedside experience (most employers want 1–3 years). English exam needed later, not to apply.
Benefits
The hospital's own package (typically medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO).
Where placed
"Clients in most states."

Sources (accessed 14 Nov 2026): FAQs · Relocation services · First 48 hours · Example listing

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Also seen recruiting Kenyan nurses: Global Nurse Force (no US program terms published on its site). Smaller recruiters appear often; check any agency the same way before you sign.

Questions to ask any agency before signing

  1. Who is my legal employer and who files my I-140 — you, or the hospital?
  2. How long is the contract, in hours and years? Do overtime and orientation hours count?
  3. If I leave early, what exactly do I owe? Ask for an itemised list of real costs, and whether it reduces as I work more hours.
  4. What is my hourly rate, and what is the DOL prevailing wage for my job and area? (Check it yourself at flag.dol.gov.)
  5. Which costs do I pay: CES, NCLEX, IELTS/OET, VisaScreen, NVC fees, embassy medical, family visas, flights?
  6. Are any "free" costs only free if I finish the contract?
  7. Can I choose my state or hospital? Can you move me mid-contract, and who decides?
  8. Are my hours guaranteed? What happens if the hospital cancels my assignment?
  9. Is there a bonus, and when exactly is it paid? Do I have to pay it back?
  10. What housing do you provide, for how long, and is it deducted from my pay?
  11. Can I see the full contract before I pay for anything, and have time to get it reviewed?
  12. Can I have the contract reviewed by a lawyer or a nurse who has worked under it?

Red flags in contracts

  • Any fee to apply, "reserve a slot" or "process your visa" — especially to an M-Pesa number. Spot a fake recruiter.
  • A big fixed "liquidated damages" or "breach fee" (e.g. $20,000+) that doesn't drop as you work.
  • Exit costs that include the agency's "lost profits", or that you only learn after you resign.
  • Threats that leaving will hurt your green card or licence, or that they'll call immigration.
  • Being asked to repay the employer's labour-certification or attorney costs (US Labor Department rules forbid this).
  • Pay below the prevailing wage, or a "wage" that only reaches the floor with bonuses.
  • Only overtime-free "regular hours" count toward your contract hours.
  • A new or changed contract pushed on you just before your embassy interview, with no time to review.
  • Forced arbitration, jury waivers, or non-compete clauses that stop you working elsewhere after you leave.
  • Anyone holding your passport or documents.
Your protections under US law, and past cases
  • Employer pays labour certification costs. An employer "must not seek or receive payment of any kind" for obtaining your labour certification, including its attorney's fees — not even through pay deductions. 20 CFR 656.12 (US govt)
  • Pay floor. Green-card employers must offer at least the prevailing wage for the job and area set by the US Department of Labor. Look it up at flag.dol.gov ("Registered Nurses 29-1141").
  • Forced labour is illegal. Threats of serious financial harm or legal or immigration action to keep you working can violate the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act (18 U.S.C. 1589).
  • New York: the Trapped at Work Act bans most "stay-or-pay" repayment terms required as a condition of employment, for agreements signed on or after 19 Dec 2026. NY Dept of Labor
  • California: AB 692 limits stay-or-pay contracts; its start was delayed to 1 Jan 2027 (law firm summary). Summary · Bill text
  • Past case — Advanced Care Staffing (NY): charged foreign-recruited nurses up to $20,000 for leaving early; in May 2025 the NY Attorney General secured $663,668.66 for 71 nurses and capped future contracts at 5,460 hours including overtime. NY AG press release
  • Past case — Sentosa (NY nursing homes): a $25,000 three-year breach fee was found to be an unenforceable penalty and a federal court held the recruiter violated the TVPA (2019). CGFNS Alliance statement

This is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by state and change over time.

This information is not provided by or endorsed by the agencies. It is compiled from publicly available sources and may change depending on each company's terms. Always confirm details in your own contract.

Terms vary by contract and change often. Read your full contract before signing and, ideally, have it reviewed. Last checked: Nov 2026.

Hospitals that hire you directly

US health systems with their own international nurse programs, no agency in between. None of these pages names Kenya, so ask whether they accept Kenyan-educated nurses.

Adventist HealthCareAdventist HealthCareSaint Alphonsus Health SystemSaint Alphonsus Health System (Trinity Health)Kettering HealthKettering HealthCoxHealthCoxHealth

States where these programs hire. Pins show single-site programs. AdventHealth (FL, CO, GA, IL, KS, KY, NC, TX, WI) and SSM Health (MO, IL, OK, WI) hire in several states.

AdventHealth

Accepting applications

Multi-state: FL, CO, GA, IL, KS, KY, NC, TX, WI

The program page invites applications; a virtual hiring event was held 15 Jun 2026.

  • Address: Not published
  • Phone: Not published
  • Email: Not published
Requirements and what they cover
Requirements
NCLEX-RN and English exam passed; currently in acute bedside practice. Experience: the program page says 1+ year in a 100+ bed tertiary acute-care hospital; a Jun 2026 event page says 2+ years in specific units.
They cover
Employer-paid immigrant visa sponsorship; first-month housing and transport; $2,000 stipend.
You pay
National Visa Center fees and fees for dependents.
Commitment
3 years. Repayment terms: Not published.

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Adventist HealthCare

Interviews suspended

Gaithersburg, MD (Washington DC area)

"We have suspended all interviews for international nurses indefinitely" because of visa retrogression.

Program page Map
Requirements and what they cover
Requirements
Associate degree (BSN preferred); 2+ years of current hospital experience; NCLEX passed plus an active US RN licence; Maryland board English scores; VisaScreen preferred.
They cover
EB-3 sponsorship with their immigration attorneys; airport pickup; temporary housing; sign-on/relocation bonus. Dependents at your own cost.
Commitment
Full-time for 3 years. Repayment: Not published.

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Saint Alphonsus Health System (Trinity Health)

Status unclear

Boise, ID region

The page is live but its status could not be read directly (details from a search-engine copy).

  • Address: Not published
  • Phone: Not published
  • Email: Not published
Requirements and what they cover
Requirements
NCLEX-RN and English exam passed; tracks for experienced RNs and graduate nurses.
They cover
Employer-paid immigrant visa sponsorship; sign-on bonus; possible housing stipend; settling-in help.
Commitment
3 years. Repayment: Not published.

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Kettering Health

Accepting applications

Dayton / Kettering, OH

The page invites applications and lists hiring events.

  • 3535 Southern Blvd, Kettering, OH 45429
  • Phone: Not published
  • Email: Not published
Requirements and what they cover
Requirements
2 years of hospital experience (Med-Surg, ED, ICU, Stepdown or OR); NCLEX and IELTS passed; BLS; Associate, Bachelor's or Diploma. VisaScreen not required at selection.
They cover
60 days of housing and 30 days of transport; $2,000 sign-on bonus; up to $2,500 towards immigration expenses; in-house immigration manager.
Commitment
Not published

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

SSM Health

Accepting applications

MO, IL, OK, WI

Quick Apply form; applications reviewed "within one business day".

Program page Map
Requirements and what they cover
Requirements
Not published on the page (COVID vaccination required).
They cover
Their immigration attorney (Fragomen) files for you; travel arranged by their recruitment team. Cost split: Not published.
Commitment
Not published

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

CoxHealth

Status unclear

Springfield, MO

Pages are live; current intake not stated. Apply by emailing their International Recruitment Team.

Program page Map
Requirements and what they cover
Requirements
Not published on the pages read.
They cover
"Most of the costs associated with your visa"; airport pickup; help with phone, bank and housing search.
You pay
All dependent costs, plus education, licence, VisaScreen and visa fees (some may be reimbursed).
Commitment
Not published

Book a free call before you apply so we can guide you and make sure you get full support.

Last checked 14 Nov 2026

Write to a hospital

Fill in your details. The email below updates as you type. Then copy it or open it in your email app, and attach your CV and licence.

Certifications

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Before you sign any contract
  • Ask for the full contract, not a summary, and the exact early-exit cost in writing. No agency page we checked publishes its breach amounts.
  • Check the commitment: years, or hours (for example 6,000 or 6,240 hours).
  • Ask exactly which immigration costs you pay (NVC fees, embassy, medical) and what happens for your family.
  • Never pay a placement or "processing" fee to a person or an M-Pesa number. Spot a fake recruiter.
Want one-on-one help choosing? Paid consult

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