A career in the veterinary field in America represents a unique opportunity for professionals seeking development and recognition, but how much does a veterinarian earn in the USA?
Although the scenario in the country is promising, it is necessary to understand the income possibilities and requirements for working in the USA before moving, as it is a very large country with more than 50 states.
With this in mind, D4U Immigration has prepared this article to show you how much a veterinarian earns in the USA and what it takes to move to the land of the free and fulfill the American dream.
Read on to find out more.
How much does a veterinarian earn per month in the USA?
As we have seen, the United States is a very large country with more than 50 states, which means that there are great variations depending on the region.
Here’s an overview of the country and some of the main states where Brazilians live in the US, according to Glassdoor:
- National overview: o average annual salary for an associate veterinarian in the United States is $157,085. In addition, the average additional cash compensation for a veterinarian in the United States is US$62,540, ranging from US$46,905 to US$87,557;
- Florida: o average annual salary is $132,674but there are also additional earnings estimated at $40,107, which can include bonuses, profit sharing, commissions, tips and other forms of variable remuneration that can reach up to $172,780 per year;
- California: the average annual salary for an associate veterinarian is approximately $147,927. This figure is a median, reflecting the range of salaries reported. In California, the cost of living tends to be higher, which may justify slightly higher salaries compared to other states;
- Massachusetts: in this state, the average annual salary is $132,115varying depending on factors such as experience, specific location within the state and the nature of the work performed (for example, general practice versus specialization);
- New York: the average annual salary for veterinarians is US$201,845. The average additional cash compensation for a veterinarian in New York is US$62,493, ranging from US$46,870 to US$87,491.
Read also: All about the Brazilian community in the USA: stay in the know and join in!
What does it take to become a veterinarian in the USA?
To become a veterinarian in the United States, there are a number of important steps to follow. Understand:
Education and licensing
You must have a certificate in veterinary medicine from an accredited university. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recognizes these institutions through the AVMA Council on Education (COE).
If you earned your degree outside the US, you must complete an educational equivalency certification program, such as the one offered by the AVMA’s Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinarians (ECFVG), which is accepted nationwide as full veterinary licensure.
NAVLE national exam
All veterinarians must pass the North American National Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). This exam is an essential requirement for practicing veterinary medicine in the USA.
State Licensing Requirements
After obtaining the ECFVG diploma or certificate, you will need to complete the licensing requirements of the specific state where you wish to work, which includes passing the NAVLE exam and any other state-specific exams.
Each state in the US has its own prerequisites and rules for licensing, so contact an immigration office to ensure you get the results you need.
Work Visa
To work legally as a veterinarian in the United States, you need to obtain a work visa.
E the U.S. Department of State provides information on the various types of visas and work permits available.
English proficiency
As part of the process, it is also necessary to prove proficiency in English, as effective communication is crucial in veterinary practice.
Diploma validation
If your university is not recognized by the AVMA, you will have to validate your degree, which involves confirming that your training meets the educational standards required to practice veterinary medicine in the USA.
In these cases, the ideal is to find an immigration consultancy, such as D4U Immigration, as this will facilitate processes such as sworn translations and others, speeding up the process.
Advantages of being a veterinarian in the USA
Now let’s take a look at the advantages of a veterinary career in the United States:
Advantages
Here are the advantages of being a veterinarian in the USA:
- High demand for veterinary services: The US has a large pet population, resulting in a constant demand for veterinary services;
- Attractive remuneration: Veterinarians in the USA tend to have competitive salaries compared to many other countries;
- Technological advances: The veterinary field in the USA is full of cutting-edge technologies, offering opportunities for veterinarians to work with advanced equipment and techniques;
- Specialization opportunities: There are several areas of specialization available, allowing veterinarians to develop unique skills and stand out in the market;
- Quality of Life: Veterinarians in the US generally enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
Is it worth becoming a veterinarian in the USA?
Yes! Being a veterinarian in the United States is a promising choice for dedicated professionals who are passionate about animals.
The American market offers unique opportunities for growth, technological advances and a diversity of areas of specialization.
In addition, professional recognition and appreciation are significant, contributing to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
Start your career as a veterinarian in the USA with the help of D4U Immigration!
D4U Immigration is ready to guide you through every step of the immigration process, from the eligibility assessment to obtaining the EB2-NIW visa.
With a team of experts and a 99% approval rate, we offer personalized support to ensure that your journey to becoming a veterinarian in the USA is a successful one.