Minimum IELTS score to work in the USA and get PR in 2023

From higher education to future employment, the United States of America has plenty to offer those who are looking to embark on their overseas journey.

With its cultural diversity, opportunities for career growth, and the abundance of travel opportunities within the country itself, it’s no question why many people aim to get permanent residency in the US.

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the American Community Service (ACS) reveals that 28 million foreign-born workers made up the US labour force in 2021, which makes up 17 per cent of the total workforce.

At that rate, you can expect this number to increase over time.

But before you even think of acquiring permanent residency or a green card in the USA, you must first ensure that you have the relevant English language skills via IELTS certification to work in the country.

Here are the minimum IELTS band scores required and the various pathways to consider if you’re interested in getting US PR this year!

IELTS scores to work in the US and get PR in 2023

1. Work and attain a green card in the USA with a study visa

Getting an F-1 study visa and successfully graduating from an American university is one of the most common and easiest ways for one to eventually attain permanent residency in the country.

While the average minimum IELTS score ranges between 6.0 to 6.5 out of 9, this number would still vary depending on the university.

To give you a better idea of the IELTS minimum requirements for the top universities in the USA, take a look at the information below:

(Source: Hyperlink to Article 6 - Minimum IELTS score to study in US universities in 2023)

As for the complete online student visa application requirements, let us help guide you through the process!

2.    Work and attain a green card in the USA with a work visa

For those planning to work in the United States, you’ll be happy to know that there is no fixed English requirement or IELTS certification needed for general careers. This is regardless of whether you studied at an American university or not.

However, you will still have to apply for a work visa based on the type of work you plan to do.

Here are some of the most common visa types available:

• H-1B visa: This is a temporary work visa from your employer to perform services in specific and speciality occupation.
• H-1B1 treaty-based temporary work visa: This visa is specifically for Singaporean and Chilean citizens who already have a job offer from their employer.
• H-3 (trainee): This visa allows you to come to the US as a trainee or Special Education Exchange Visitor to learn and train in programmes such as the education of children.
• O (persons with extraordinary ability): This visa can be issued if you have extraordinary abilities in specific fields including education, arts, business, sciences and athletics, to name a few.
• P (artists, entertainers) visa: If you are an athlete, entertainer, artist or essential support personnel, this visa is for you.
• Q visas: This work visa is suitable if you are looking to join the Exchange Visitors programs designated by either the Department of State or the Department of Homeland Security.

Applicants who previously held student visas and want to attain green card holder status may apply for the EB-1 visa or first-preference employment-based visa, for a seamless transition from student to an employee residing in the US.

For more information on the specific requirements and eligibility criteria of the above-mentioned work visa types, let us help!

3.    Work and attain a green card in the USA as a nurse

The US is one of the best places to pursue a career in nursing thanks to the massive room for career development offered to registered nurses. However, it’s equally important for healthcare employees to prove their proficiency in the English language.

For international registered nurses taking their career to the States, they need to have an overall IELTS band score of 6.5, with a 7 in the speaking section.

Afterwards, you’ll be able to attain your registered nurse immigrant visa and finally live and work in the US!

Pursue your career and PR in the US with IDP!

Now that you’ve explored all the possible pathways that could lead you to work and obtain permanent residency in the US, it’s time for the next step.

Here at IDP, we help students and professionals alike as you sit for your IELTS. From providing exclusive educational resources to finding a test location near you, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Book your IELTS test with IDP today!