For European nurses looking to apply for a work visa in California in 2024, the primary visa category is typically the EB-3 visa, which is a permanent work visa that can lead to a Green Card. Here's a breakdown of the key costs involved in this process:

1. EB-3 Visa Filing Fee: The fee for filing the I-140 petition, which is required for the EB-3 visa, is $700. This fee is usually covered by the employer, but it can sometimes be negotiated differently.

2. VisaScreen Certificate: Before applying for the visa, nurses must obtain a VisaScreen Certificate from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). This certificate costs around $540 to $590, depending on the service provider and additional requirements such as English language proficiency tests.

3. USCIS Immigrant Fee: After the visa is approved, there is a USCIS Immigrant Fee of $220, which is required for the issuance of your Green Card upon entering the United States.

4. Medical Examination and Other Costs: You must undergo a medical examination as part of the visa process. The cost varies by country but typically ranges from $200 to $400. Additionally, there are costs for document preparation, translations (if needed), and travel expenses, which can add several hundred dollars to the overall cost.

In summary, while the direct costs for the visa application itself are significant, the total costs including all associated expenses can add up to around $1,500 to $2,000 or more depending on individual circumstances​(

It's important to also consider potential costs for legal assistance or immigration consultants, which can vary widely based on the services provided.