The United States still needs more healthcare workers, including Filipino nurses, but many applicants are now worried about the strict immigration policies under the new US administration.
Why Do Filipino Nurses Want to Work in the US?
Bianca Louise Carino and Frances Campomanes are among the many Filipino nurses hoping to work in the US. They both have relatives there and believe that moving abroad will give them better opportunities.
“There are push and pull factors that drive nurses to leave the country,” Frances explained. “Low pay, poor working conditions, and the chance to grow professionally abroad make many of us want to work in the US.”
Immigration Policies Are a Big Concern
Despite their dreams, both Bianca and Frances know that the US has become stricter about foreign workers.
“I think the US will be more selective in accepting workers from other countries now,” Bianca shared in Filipino.
US Still Values Filipino Nurses 
Even with these immigration concerns, Filipino nurses remain highly respected in the US.
US Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Carlson said that Americans admire Filipino nurses, especially for their dedication and service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Filipino Nurses Are Among the Best
The Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) reassures Filipino nurses that they are still highly valued in the US.
“Filipino nurses are well-trained, compassionate, and very knowledgeable. Nursing isn’t just about technology—it’s also about the human caring touch,” said Bob Gahol, PNAA president.
Frances agreed, saying: “Not to boast, but Filipino nurses are great. Even with immigration concerns, the US still needs us.”
How Many Filipino Nurses Are in the US?
Around 200,000 Filipino nurses are currently working in the US, making up about 4% of the total five million nurses in America.
Stricter US Immigration Policies & Deportations
Since taking office, President Donald Trump has signed a series of immigration-related executive orders, including a crackdown on undocumented migrants.
16 undocumented Filipinos are now set for deportation due to the stricter policies.
President Marcos Offers Support for Deportees
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has promised to help returning OFWs by providing:
Livelihood training
Financial support
Job opportunities in the Philippines
“We need to provide quality jobs where Filipinos have the potential to get promoted or even start their own businesses,” Marcos emphasized.
Job Fairs to Help Filipino Workers
To help job seekers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recently organized a Career Con in partnership with a top employment website.
DOLE also announced plans to hold monthly job fairs to help more Filipinos find stable and high-paying jobs.
Final Thoughts
Filipino nurses are still highly in demand in the US, but new immigration rules make it more challenging to work there. While some nurses still dream of moving abroad, others may look for better job opportunities in the Philippines.
What do you think? Should Filipino nurses stay or work abroad? Let us know in the comments! 
