From the Philippines to the USA: PT Richel’s Inspiring H-1B Journey with Grandison

For many physical therapists in the Philippines, practicing in the United States represents both a professional milestone and a personal dream. Yet this goal often comes with significant challenges—passing the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Examination), navigating U.S. immigration rules, and enduring long visa wait times caused by retrogression.

In a recent episode of the Grandison Espresso Lounge, Michelle Lauren Aid Nacho, known as Richel, shared her journey from being a hospital-based PT in the Philippines to becoming a U.S.-bound physical therapist through Grandison’s H-1B US visa pathway for Filipino PTs.

A graduate of De La Salle Health Sciences Institute, Richel’s story highlights how the right strategy—and the right partner—can turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Building the Foundation: Clinical Experience in the Philippines

Before pursuing opportunities abroad, Richel focused on strengthening her clinical skills at home. After passing the Philippine board exams, she spent nearly three years working in a private hospital, gaining hands-on experience that prepared her for international practice.

This clinical foundation proved essential when she decided to take the NPTE, the licensure exam required to practice as a physical therapist in the United States.

While Richel noted that the process had become smoother compared to earlier years, she emphasized that it still required focus, discipline, and commitment.

Why the USA—and Why Grandison?

Choosing the United States Over Other Destinations

Like many Filipino PTs, Richel initially considered countries such as the UK and New Zealand, which are geographically closer and often perceived as easier migration options. Ultimately, she chose the United States for its:

Broader career opportunities
Advanced clinical practice environment
Long-term professional growth potential

However, she was also realistic about the biggest challenge facing applicants today—EB-2 and EB-3 visa retrogression, which can delay green card processing for years.

The Strategic Advantage of the H-1B Pathway

H1B Journey for Filipino PT like you and Richel

Richel shared that one of the key reasons she chose Grandison was its ability to offer an H-1B visa journey for Filipino PTs like her.

Unlike waiting solely for EB-2 or EB-3 immigrant visas, the H-1B pathway allows qualified PTs to:

Begin working legally in the U.S. sooner
Gain U.S. clinical experience while waiting for immigrant visa availability
Transition to EB-2 or EB-3 when priority dates become current

This strategy provided Richel with a faster, more practical entry into the U.S. healthcare system.

Why Richel Trusted Grandison

Richel’s decision to partner with Grandison was not made lightly. She cited several factors that gave her confidence:

Peer recommendations from a former college classmate who had already gone through the process
Independent research into Grandison’s management and track record
Supportive leadership, particularly noting how approachable and responsive the team—especially Sir Nathan—was throughout recruitment

This level of transparency and support helped ease the stress that often comes with international recruitment.

Let’s watch the full interview together below and know more about Richel’s USA journey on the summarized Question and Answer section below:

Here’s a quick summary of the interview and Richel’s USA journey. Disclaimer: Some parts were translated and summarized in context. You may refer to the full raw video for complete review, experience and advise.

Can you introduce yourself and your background?

"I am Michelle Lauren Aid Nacho from the Lasal Health Sciences Institute and I am a proud Grandison physical therapist. After passing the boards, I worked in a private hospital for almost 3 years before I decided to take the NPTE"

Why did you choose Grandison over other agencies?

"The process was smoother compared to before, and it was recommended by a friend who was my old classmate. I did my own research into their management process... most of my family is in the USA, and even though there is retrogression in EB-2 and EB-3, Grandison offers the H-1B which helps you eventually get those visas"

How was the recruitment and management experience?

"Sir Nathan was very accommodating with any questions and was able to answer anything along the way. The management is very supportive; they give you guidelines on current trends and they always find solutions to any problems that arise"

What advice do you have for PTs currently in the review process?

"I don't think I'm the right person to give advice, but all I can say is enjoy the process during the review. Don't get totally burned out. You have your colleagues and lecturers to help if you have difficulties"

How important is communication during this journey?

"It is a two-way street. There should be updates from the management to the scholars, and at the same time, the scholar should update the management on their progress. That connection is vital"

Navigating the NPTE Without Burning Out

Richel emphasized that passing the NPTE is not just about studying harder—it’s about studying smarter. Maintaining balance, leaning on your professional community, and avoiding burnout are critical to long-term success.

Equally important is open communication with your agency. Keeping Grandison informed of her progress allowed the team to prepare her H-1B filing and next steps without unnecessary delays after passing the exam.

The Grandison Advantage: Support That Goes Beyond Recruitment

Throughout Richel’s journey, one theme remained consistent—Grandison provides solutions, not just placements. From adapting to immigration trends to offering clear guidance during uncertainty, the management’s proactive approach played a major role in her confidence and peace of mind.

For many Filipino PTs, this level of support can make the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling prepared.

Final Thoughts: Turning the American Dream into a Plan

Richel’s journey shows that becoming a physical therapist in the United States is possible with:

Strong clinical experience
A clear licensure strategy (NPTE)
A smart visa pathway (H-1B during retrogression)
A reliable and transparent partner like Grandison

For Filipino PTs considering the U.S., her story is proof that the dream is achievable—with the right preparation and guidance.

Ready to Start Your Own U.S. PT Journey? Inquire About Grandison’s Job Offer and Sponsorship Program

Richel’s story proves that becoming a physical therapist in the United States is not just a dream—it’s a realistic goal with the right preparation and support. If you are a Filipino PT who has passed the boards, is preparing for the NPTE, or is already licensed, the next step is understanding your options for U.S. job offers and visa sponsorship.

Grandison works with qualified physical therapists from the Philippines through a structured U.S. job offer and sponsorship program, including H-1B visa pathways designed to help PTs begin working in the U.S. even during periods of EB-2 and EB-3 retrogression.

By reaching out to Grandison, you can learn more about:

Eligibility for U.S. physical therapy job offers
A guided H1B journey for Filipino PT and secured US job opportunities plus long-term transition options
Guidance from NPTE preparation to deployment
Career pathways aligned with your experience and goals

Every journey is different, but having clarity early makes a meaningful difference. If you’re serious about building your future as a physical therapist in the United States, now is the time to take that first step.

Inquire with Grandison today to explore how their U.S. job offer and sponsorship program can support your path—just as it did for Richel.