Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
How to Get a Veterinarian License in the US with a Nigeria DVM
Timeline
1–3 years
Est. Cost
$5,000–$12,000
Credential Eval
Required
US Exam
NAVLE
If you earned your DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) in Nigeria and want to work as a licensed veterinarian in the United States, this guide covers the full pathway — from credential evaluation through state licensure.
Nigerian degrees from NUC-approved universities are evaluated by US credential services. Evaluators generally look for programs accredited by the relevant professional council. The process typically takes 1–3 years and costs between $5,000–$12,000, depending on the state you choose and your individual circumstances.
Your Nigeria Qualifications
- Degree Type
- DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine)
- Regulatory Body
- Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN)
- Education System
- Follows the British-influenced 6-3-3-4 system. Bachelor's degrees are typically 4–5 years depending on the discipline.
- US Evaluation
- ECFVG (AVMA Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates)
Nigerian DVM is a 6-year program. ECFVG evaluates for equivalency to US AVMA-accredited veterinary programs.
Step-by-Step Pathway to US Licensure
Step 1: Credential Evaluation
Your DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) must be evaluated for US equivalency by ECFVG (AVMA Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates). You will need official transcripts sent directly from your institution, your degree certificate, and license verification from the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN).
ECFVG (AVMA Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates)
Certification program for veterinary graduates from non-AVMA-accredited schools
Step 2: English Proficiency
You will need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically through the TOEFL iBT. Score requirements vary by state board and credential evaluation agency. Check with your target state for specific minimums.
Step 3: Additional Education (If Required)
Depending on your credential evaluation results, you may need to complete additional coursework to address gaps between your Nigeria education and US requirements. Nigerian DVM is a 6-year program. ECFVG evaluates for equivalency to US AVMA-accredited veterinary programs.
Step 4: NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination)
All internationally educated veterinarians must pass the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) to practice in the US. This is the same exam taken by US-educated graduates. Must obtain ECFVG certification or graduate from an AVMA-accredited/listed program. ECFVG includes multiple steps including a clinical proficiency exam..
Step 5: State Application
Once you pass the exam and complete your credential evaluation, apply for licensure through the board in your chosen state. Each state has its own application process, fees, and timelines. See the destination states section below for direct links.
Step 6: Visa & Work Authorization
Common visa categories for Nigerian professionals include: H-1B, EB-2, EB-3. Eligibility and processing times vary by category and individual circumstances.
Note: Immigration law is complex and changes frequently. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
Choose Your Destination State
Licensing requirements vary by state. Select a state below for a detailed breakdown of Nigerian veterinarian requirements in that state.
Estimated Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation | Varies |
| English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL iBT) | ~$200–$300 |
| NAVLE Exam | Varies |
| State Licensure Application | Varies by state |
| Visa Application Filing Fees | $190–$460+ |
| Estimated Total | $5,000–$12,000 |
Costs are approximate and subject to change. Additional expenses may include document translation, courier fees, and immigration attorney fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Nigerian veterinarian practice in the US?
Yes, but you must complete a credential evaluation, pass the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination), and obtain a state license. The process typically takes 1–3 years.
How much does it cost for a Nigerian veterinarian to get licensed in the US?
The estimated total cost ranges from $5,000–$12,000, covering credential evaluation, exam fees, and state application fees. Additional costs may include English proficiency testing and visa fees.
Is a DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) recognized in the United States?
A DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) from Nigeria is not automatically recognized but can be evaluated for US equivalency by ECFVG (AVMA Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates). Nigerian DVM is a 6-year program. ECFVG evaluates for equivalency to US AVMA-accredited veterinary programs.
Do I need to take the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) if I am already licensed in Nigeria?
Yes. Regardless of prior licensure or experience, all internationally educated veterinarians must pass the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) to practice in the United States.
Which US states are easiest for Nigerian veterinarians?
Requirements vary by state. Research individual state boards to compare application processes, fees, and any additional requirements for internationally educated applicants.
Related Resources
- Veterinarian: International Licensing Guide — Overview for all countries
- International Credential Evaluation Guide — Credential evaluation for all professions
- Philippines-Trained Veterinarian Guide
- India-Trained Veterinarian Guide
- Mexico-Trained Veterinarian Guide
- United Kingdom-Trained Veterinarian Guide
Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.