The United States continues to experience a growing demand for healthcare workers, and pharmacy technicians are no exception. As the U.S. healthcare system expands due to an aging population and increased prescription needs, the need for trained professionals to support pharmacists is on the rise. For foreign-trained professionals looking to build a career in the U.S., pharmacy technician jobs in the USA with sponsorship offer a promising pathway.
This guide will explain how to become a pharmacy technician in the U.S., the visa sponsorship options available, qualifications required, where to find jobs, and how to position yourself as a competitive candidate.
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
A pharmacy technician is a healthcare support worker who assists pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, processing insurance claims, and interacting with patients. These professionals work in various settings including:
Hospitals
Retail pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens)
Long-term care facilities
Mail-order pharmacies
Pharmaceutical wholesalers
Demand for Pharmacy Technicians in the USA
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the pharmacy technician profession is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than average for all occupations. The median salary for pharmacy technicians is about $39,000–$50,000 annually, depending on location and experience.
States with the highest demand include:
California
Texas
Florida
New York
Illinois
The increase in chronic diseases, vaccination programs, and over-the-counter medication sales continues to create job opportunities across the U.S.
Can Foreigners Apply for Pharmacy Technician Jobs in the USA?
Yes, foreign nationals can apply for pharmacy technician jobs in the USA, but you must meet U.S. certification standards and secure a work visa. Many employers offer visa sponsorship, especially if they’re facing labor shortages or if the job is in a critical shortage area.
Types of Visas for Pharmacy Technicians
1. H-1B Visa
Though commonly used for skilled professions like IT and engineering, the H-1B visa can be granted for healthcare roles requiring specialized skills. In some cases, large hospital networks or pharmaceutical companies may sponsor pharmacy technicians, especially those with additional qualifications.
2. TN Visa (For Canadian & Mexican Citizens)
Under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), qualified Canadian and Mexican professionals can work in the U.S. under the TN visa. Although the pharmacy technician role is not explicitly listed, some roles within pharmaceutical services may qualify depending on job descriptions.
3. Green Card via Employment
Some employers may sponsor foreign pharmacy technicians for permanent residency (EB-3 visa) if they prove there are no available U.S. workers to fill the role.
4. J-1 or F-1 to Work Visa
If you’ve studied pharmacy technology in the U.S. under a student visa (F-1) or participated in training programs through a J-1 visa, you may transition to a work visa like H-1B or apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Qualifications for Pharmacy Technician Jobs in the USA
To qualify for employment and sponsorship, you must meet both educational and certification requirements:
1. Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Completion of a Pharmacy Technician Training Program (accredited in the U.S. or recognized internationally)
2. Certification
Most states and employers require one of the following:
PTCB Certification (CPhT) – Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
ExCPT Certification – National Healthcareer Association
Having a U.S.-recognized certification significantly boosts your employment and sponsorship chances.
3. State Licensure
Depending on the state, you may need to:
Pass a background check
Register with the State Board of Pharmacy
Maintain continuing education credits
Benefits of Working as a Pharmacy Technician in the U.S.
Competitive Salaries
Earn between $18–$28/hour, depending on your location, experience, and certification level.
Path to Permanent Residency
Many healthcare employers offer green card sponsorship after several years of employment.
Career Progression
Pharmacy technicians can move into roles like:
Lead technician
Pharmacy operations manager
Pharmaceutical sales
Further study to become a licensed pharmacist
Job Security
The U.S. healthcare industry offers stable, long-term employment even during economic downturns.
How to Find Pharmacy Technician Jobs with Sponsorship in the USA
Search on Healthcare Job Portals
Use keywords like “pharmacy technician visa sponsorship” or “H-1B pharmacy tech jobs USA” on platforms such as:
Indeed
Glassdoor
LinkedIn
MyVisaJobs
SimplyHired
Apply Directly to U.S. Pharmacy Chains and Hospitals
Major employers with a history of sponsorship include:
CVS Health
Walgreens
Kaiser Permanente
UnitedHealth Group
Tenet Healthcare
Omnicare (a CVS Health company)
These companies may offer relocation assistance, training, and visa processing support.
Use Recruitment Agencies
Specialized healthcare recruiters can help foreign candidates connect with licensed U.S. employers. Look for firms that deal with international staffing in healthcare.
Remote and Contract Pharmacy Technician Jobs
While most pharmacy technician jobs are in-person due to handling medication, some administrative and insurance processing tasks can be done remotely. These include:
Insurance billing coordination
Prescription data entry
Inventory tracking
Remote jobs may be a good entry point for foreigners awaiting visa approval or with international experience in pharmaceutical data.
States That Welcome International Healthcare Workers
Some U.S. states have streamlined processes for foreign healthcare professionals, especially in underserved areas. Consider states with:
Healthcare worker shortage designations
State-sponsored visa initiatives
Fast-track licensing systems
Examples: Texas, New Mexico, North Dakota, Nebraska, and Nevada.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Get certified in the U.S.: Even if you trained abroad, getting your PTCB certification shows your commitment.
Highlight bilingual skills: Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic speakers are in high demand in U.S. healthcare.
Gain remote experience: Work with international clients or companies that serve the U.S. market.
Include visa readiness in your resume: Employers prefer candidates who already understand visa requirements and have valid documentation.
Salary Expectations by State (2025)
| State | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $48,000 – $60,000 |
| Texas | $40,000 – $52,000 |
| New York | $43,000 – $56,000 |
| Florida | $38,000 – $50,000 |
| Illinois | $39,000 – $51,000 |
