Brazilians pursue the American dream: 23.9% increase in green card applications for physical therapists
HAYMAN-WOODWARD, a leading global mobility company, reveals a significant 23.9% increase in the number of green card applications from Brazilian physical therapists in the past year. This remarkable growth, resulting in approximately 1,800 requests, highlights the growing interest of these professionals in entering the American market.
High demand for qualified professionals
The demand for physical therapists in the US is driven by several factors, including the aging American population and the rise in chronic health conditions. Leonardo Freitas, CEO of HAYMAN-WOODWARD, emphasizes that this shortage is intensified by other reasons:
- Requirement for continuous education and training: The field demands continuous professional updating, which can be a challenge for many.
- High workload and burnout: The profession demands great physical and mental dedication, leading to professional burnout.
- Difficulties with insurance reimbursements: The complex bureaucracy of health insurance can generate insecurity and delays in payments.
- Limited educational resources: Access to refresher and specialization courses may be restricted in some regions.
- Uneven geographical distribution: The concentration of physical therapists in large urban centers leaves less populated areas underserved.
Promising opportunities in the US
To meet this demand, the US implements public policies that attract international talent. Several visa programs have been created, such as the extraordinary ability and national interest visas, offering flexibility and facilitating the validation of diplomas.
Types of visas for physical therapists
- EB-2 “Schedule A”: For licensed physical therapists and nurses.
- EB-2 NIW: For physical therapists not yet licensed.
- Extraordinary ability visa: For renowned professionals with publications and important awards.
Green Card Requirements:
- 5 to 10 years of experience in the field.
- Validation of diploma and licensing in the US (depending on the visa category).
- Proof of professional history (minimum of 5 years after the bachelor’s degree).
Competitive salaries and attractive benefits:
- Salaries significantly higher than in Brazil.
- Opportunity to work with advanced technologies and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
- Wide range of specialization areas.
- Continuous professional development.
Challenges to be considered:
- Cultural adaptation.
- Possible differences in professional practice.
- Process of validating credentials and licenses.
Enriching experience:
Leonardo Freitas, from HAYMAN-WOODWARD, emphasizes that despite the challenges, the international experience can be enriching:
“The opportunity to work with advanced technologies, in a multicultural environment, and contribute to the health and well-being of people from different cultures makes this journey extremely rewarding.”