If you're a physical therapist dreaming of living and working in the United States, we have excellent news: the country is constantly seeking qualified professionals in the field of physical therapy, including foreign professionals.
Additionally, it’s possible to practice with a diploma obtained abroad, as long as you follow the necessary steps for validation and licensing.
In this post, we’ll discuss how to practice, salary expectations, opportunities, and, of course, pathways to obtaining the coveted Green Card. Keep reading!
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Opportunities and Career Growth for a Physical Therapist in the U.S.
The physical therapy market in the United States is growing primarily due to the aging population, the rise of chronic diseases, and increased awareness of the importance of physical rehabilitation.
As people live longer and seek a better quality of life, there’s a growing demand for professionals who can assist with injury recovery, mobility improvement, and managing chronic conditions.
Moreover, physical therapy is expanding into new areas, such as preventive health and wellness, further driving the need for qualified physical therapists.
Studies show there will be a shortage of professionals in the coming years, which is why the country continues to seek qualified professionals who can contribute their knowledge to the U.S. job market.
How to Work as a Physical Therapist in the U.S. with a Foreign Diploma?
To work in the U.S., physical therapists trained abroad need to validate their credentials and obtain a professional license. The process includes:
Educational credentials evaluation: Your degree will be analyzed to ensure it meets the standards required in the U.S. You may need to take additional courses or earn specific certifications.
National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE): In most states, you are required to pass the NPTE, an exam that validates your professional competence.
Supervised clinical experience: Some states require you to complete a supervised practical experience before granting a license.
Once you meet these requirements, you’ll be able to work in the U.S. with all the necessary qualifications.
Also Read: How to Validate Your Diploma in the U.S.: The Essential Guide for International Professionals
What is the Average Salary for a Physical Therapist in the U.S.?
Physical therapy is a highly valued and well-paid profession in the United States.
According to recent data, the average annual salary for physical therapists ranges from $90,000 to $100,000, depending on location, experience, and specialization. States and metropolitan areas with high demand for healthcare professionals typically offer the most attractive salaries.
How Can a Foreign Physical Therapist Obtain a Green Card?
The pathway to a Green Card can be achieved through various means, but one of the most common for qualified professionals is the EB2-NIW (National Interest Waiver).
This visa is for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities, which many physical therapists qualify for.
To be eligible for EB2-NIW, you must:
Have a recognized degree,
Have at least 5 years of professional experience,
Demonstrate exceptional abilities,
Prove that your presence in the U.S. will benefit the country significantly.
With the help of a specialist lawyer, the dream of building a successful career in the U.S. can become a reality.
At Murtaz Law, we have helped hundreds of physical therapists secure their work and permanent residency visas in the U.S. With over 15 years of experience, our goal is to help clients immigrate with knowledge, organization, and planning.
To build a strong case and increase your chances of success, contact us by clicking here and request an analysis of your case.
About Murtaz Law
With more than a decade of experience, we take pride in guiding families and individuals on their journey to legally immigrate to the USA, whether temporarily or permanently.
Our success story spans a variety of cases, including temporary immigration, family reunification, naturalization, and especially, work visas like the EB2-NIW, which leads to the Green Card. Over the years, we have built a solid reputation and become a reference for skilled professionals, artists, and elite athletes who wish to expand their careers or undertake ventures in the USA.
Our 99.5% approval rate in cases demonstrates our commitment to a personalized approach, combining ethics, creativity, and deep knowledge of the laws and economic issues. We recognize that each client has a unique story and work side by side, individually, to create tailored strategies that achieve the desired outcomes. We take the importance of our work in our clients' lives seriously. Your future deserves a unique strategy, and we at Murtaz Law have the experience and expertise to meet your immigration needs.
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