The United States continues to present exciting career opportunities for qualified pharmacists around the world. If you’re a foreign-trained pharmacist looking to relocate, this in-depth guide explores how to secure pharmacist jobs in the U.S. with visa sponsorship in 2025 and 2026. From licensure requirements to employer insights and visa pathways, you’ll find everything you need to begin your journey.
This is more than a job opportunity—it’s your gateway to a high-paying, fulfilling career in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems.
Why the U.S. Is Hiring Foreign Pharmacists in 2025
The American healthcare system is rapidly expanding, and with it comes a growing demand for skilled pharmacy professionals. Major factors fueling this demand include:
- Shortages in rural and underserved communities
- Increased reliance on prescription medication
- Pharmacists taking on more clinical responsibilities
- Aging U.S. population and rising chronic illness cases
To fill these gaps, many employers in 2025 are open to hiring and sponsoring international pharmacists who meet licensing and immigration standards.
Can Foreign Pharmacists Work in the U.S.?
Yes, but you must meet regulatory requirements. The U.S. has strict healthcare licensing laws, especially for pharmacy practice. However, international pharmacists can work in the U.S. legally—if they complete the proper steps and obtain visa sponsorship.
Licensure Pathway: How to Become a Licensed Pharmacist in the U.S.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Credential Evaluation
Use an agency like Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) to assess your pharmacy degree. Your degree must be equivalent to a U.S. PharmD or BPharm.
2. FPGEC Certification
Apply for the Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC) certification from NABP. Requirements include:
- Passing the FPGEE (Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Exam)
- Passing the TOEFL iBT (English language proficiency test)
3. Internship Hours
Complete 1,500 to 2,000 hours of internship, depending on the state. You can do this while working as a pharmacy intern.
4. Licensure Exams
You must pass two key exams:
- NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam)
- MPJE (Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam, state-specific)
Once these steps are complete, you’re eligible to work as a pharmacist and apply for jobs that offer visa sponsorship.
Visa Options for Pharmacists in the USA
Several visa types allow foreign pharmacists to live and work legally in the U.S.:
H-1B Visa
- Requires at least a bachelor’s degree in a specialty occupation
- Sponsored by an employer
- Subject to an annual lottery (applications open every April)
- Most common visa for pharmacists
TN Visa
- Available only to Canadian and Mexican citizens
- Part of the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) agreement
- Requires job offer and proof of credentials
EB-2 or EB-3 Green Card
- Offers permanent residency
- Sponsored by employers through the PERM Labor Certification process
- EB-2 for advanced degree holders; EB-3 for skilled workers
Top Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship for Pharmacists
| Employer | Location | Visa Support |
|---|---|---|
| CVS Health | Nationwide | H-1B, EB-3 |
| Walgreens | Nationwide | H-1B |
| Cleveland Clinic | Ohio | H-1B, EB-2 |
| Mayo Clinic | Minnesota | Green Card, Intern |
| Kaiser Permanente | CA, CO | H-1B |
| Ascension Health | South & Midwest | EB-3 |
| University Hospitals | Varies | H-1B (research roles) |
| Rite Aid | Select States | H-1B (case-specific) |
Average Pharmacist Salary in the USA (2025 Projections)
Pharmacists in the U.S. earn some of the highest salaries among non-physician healthcare professionals.
| State | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $155,000 |
| New York | $136,000 |
| Texas | $130,000 |
| Florida | $125,000 |
| Illinois | $127,500 |
| National Avg. | $133,000 |
High CPC Tip: Specialized pharmacists (oncology, pediatric, or clinical research) can earn even more—often exceeding $150,000/year.
How to Apply for Sponsored Pharmacist Jobs in the U.S.
Follow these steps to secure your pharmacist position in America:
- Verify your academic credentials through ECE
- Apply for FPGEC Certification
- Register and Pass the TOEFL iBT
- Pass the FPGEE Exam
- Apply for internship roles and complete your hours
- Pass NAPLEX and MPJE exams
- Apply for jobs at U.S. companies that sponsor foreign pharmacists
- Secure H-1B or EB-3 sponsorship
Pro Tip: Some employers will first hire you as a pharmacy intern or technician. After you complete licensing, they upgrade you to a full pharmacist role and begin your visa sponsorship process.
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Assuming your foreign pharmacy degree is automatically valid
- Missing the H-1B filing season (April)
- Applying to companies that don’t offer sponsorship
- Ignoring state-specific licensure laws and MPJE rules
Benefits of Working as a Pharmacist in the U.S.
High-paying, stable career with salaries up to $155,000
Pathway to a green card and eventual U.S. citizenship
Access to cutting-edge pharmaceutical technology
Sponsorship opportunities for spouse and dependents
Potential to advance into clinical, research, or leadership roles
Quick FAQs
Can I work in the U.S. without passing the FPGEE?
No. Unless you graduated from a U.S. pharmacy school, you must pass the FPGEE.
Can international students work after graduating from a U.S. pharmacy school?
Yes. They can work under OPT and later transition to H-1B if sponsored.
Do I need to retake NAPLEX if I relocate to another U.S. state?
No, but you may need to retake the MPJE, as it’s state-specific.
Conclusion
The demand for pharmacists in the United States is higher than ever. With potential earnings over $100,000, visa sponsorship opportunities, and a fast-track to permanent residency, this is your chance to build a fulfilling pharmacy career in 2025 and beyond.
If you’re a foreign-trained pharmacist willing to put in the work to meet U.S. licensing and immigration standards, you can unlock a world of professional and financial opportunity.
Start your journey today—because your American dream as a pharmacist is within reach.