July 2026 Nursing in the USA Broadcast: Key Updates for International Nurses

Each month, Nursing in the USA brings together Health Carousel International experts to discuss topics that matter most to internationally educated nurses pursuing opportunities in the United States.

This month's broadcast focused on three important areas:

• Preparing for your first day as a U.S. nurse
• Recent English language requirement updates
• The latest Visa Bulletin news

If you missed the live broadcast, here are some of the key highlights.

Preparing for Your First Day as a U.S. Nurse

Jai, Health Carousel International's 2025 Employee of the Year and a cardiac intensive care unit nurse, shared lessons from her own transition from the Philippines to the United States.

Key Takeaways:

• Stay active at the bedside while waiting for your U.S. opportunity.
• Continue developing your clinical judgment and critical thinking skills.
• Nurses in the U.S. are expected to actively contribute to patient care discussions and advocate for their patients.
• Strong English communication skills help support patient safety and collaboration with healthcare teams.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions and understand your scope of practice.

Read the full article: How to Prepare for Your First Day as a U.S. Nurse

English Language Requirement Updates

Lauren Williams, Language Proficiency Program Manager, reviewed recent changes to HRSA and TruMerit English language proficiency requirements.

Key Takeaways:

• Updated English language proficiency requirements took effect on May 12, 2026.
• The PTE Academic speaking score requirement increased to 76.
• Some previously accepted English scores may no longer meet current state licensing requirements.
• Impacted candidates should review their scores and stay in contact with their recruiter, IPA, or IPDA.

Read the full article: English Language Requirement Changes for International Nurses

August 2026 Visa Bulletin Update

Elizabeth McCullough, Associate Director of Immigration, shared the latest Visa Bulletin news and what it means for internationally educated healthcare professionals pursuing opportunities in the United States.

Key Takeaways:

• The August Visa Bulletin brought encouraging news for some employment-based categories.
• No retrogression occurred despite expectations near the end of the fiscal year.
• Healthcare professionals should continue using this time to maintain bedside experience, strengthen English communication skills, and prepare required documentation.
• The start of the new federal fiscal year on October 1 may bring additional developments.

Read the full article: August 2026 Visa Bulletin Update

Watch the Full July 2026 Broadcast

Want to hear directly from our experts?

Watch the full July 2026 Nursing in the USA broadcast below for additional insights, guidance, and answers to questions from nurses around the world.