Brazilians Pursue the American Dream: 23.9% Increase in Green Card Applications for Physical Therapists

The number of green card applications submitted by Brazilian physical therapists has increased by 23.9% in one year, according to a survey by global mobility company HAYMAN-WOODWARD. In the last year alone, there have been around 1,800 applications, which demonstrates the interest of these professionals in entering the American market.

The shortage of physical therapists in the US is one of the main reasons for this growth. This shortage can be explained by several factors, such as the aging of the American population, the increase in chronic health conditions, the high workload that leads to burnout, and the uneven geographical distribution of professionals.

To meet this demand, the US has been promoting public policies to attract talent from all over the world, including specific visas for physical therapists. Among the types of visas available are:

• EB-2 “Schedule A”: for licensed physical therapists and nurses;
• EB-2 NIW: for physical therapists who are not yet licensed;
• Extraordinary Ability Visa: for renowned professionals with publications and important awards.

To obtain a green card, physical therapists must meet certain requirements, such as having 5 to 10 years of experience in the field.

• Additionally, depending on the visa category, diploma validation and licensing in the US may be required.

Competitive salaries and the opportunity to work with more advanced technologies are some of the reasons that attract physical therapists to the US. Additionally, the country offers a wide range of areas of specialization and opportunities for continuous professional development.

However, it is important to note that professionals who choose a career in the US may face some challenges, such as:

• Need for cultural adaptation;
• Possible differences in professional practice;
• Process of validation of credentials and licenses.

Despite the challenges, the international experience can be enriching both professionally and personally, offering the chance to contribute significantly to health and well-being in a multicultural environment.

Source: De Olho na Mídia