The EB-3 Visa Program allows foreign nationals to secure a Green Card and become permanent residents in the U.S.
The employment-based immigration program is open to three classifications: skilled, professional and unskilled workers.
This guide provides a full breakdown of the EB-3 Visa job subcategories. We will also look at additional criteria that applicants must know before applying.
The EB-3 Visa is an employment-based immigrant visa category in the United States.
It provides a pathway for foreign workers to secure a Green Card, granting lawful permanent residency in the U.S. Green Card holders can live and work in the U.S. permanently.
Like the EB-5 and other employment-based visas, the EB-3 is run by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The U.S. has a quota of around 40,000 EB-3 Visas each year.
The EB-3 Visa has three subcategories. Below, we break down each of these in detail.
‘Skilled Workers’ refers to those with a minimum of two years of experience or training in a role. This subcategory covers a broad range of professions. Some of these include:
To qualify for the EB-3 Visa as a skilled worker, you must meet the following criteria:
The USCIS defines ‘Professionals’ as those whose job requires a baccalaureate degree or foreign-equivalent degree. This subcategory includes roles such as:
To qualify for the EB-3 Visa as a professional, you must meet the following criteria:
This subcategory is for unskilled labour jobs requiring less than two years of training or experience. This does not include temporary or seasonal roles.
Any job that does not fit into one of the other two subcategories may be considered an unskilled role. The EB-3 unskilled jobs subcategory covers a diverse range of roles. Some examples include:
This subcategory of the EB-3 Visa is by far the most diverse and provides more flexibility than the others mentioned above. The types of jobs cover a much broader spectrum. As a result, there are more opportunities for those who want to apply for the EB-3 program.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria
Applicants must meet specific criteria to qualify for the EB-3 Visa, regardless of the subcategory.
A fundamental requirement for the EB-3 Visa is having a valid job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor the applicant.
In general, EB-3 petitions must include a labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This is used to show that no qualified U.S. workers are available to fill the position being offered to the foreign employee.
The EB-3 Visa is a multi-step process. It offers a pathway to employment-based immigration for foreign nationals, allowing them to secure a U.S. Green Card.
Download our EB-3 factsheet to learn more about the program. Alternatively, speak to one of our specialists.
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EB-3 jobs cover a wide range of different roles. The level of experience depends on the category. Unskilled jobs that require less than two years of training or expertise provide the most flexibility.
No. A job offer from a U.S. employer is a fundamental requirement of the EB-3 Visa. The employer must also demonstrate that no qualified U.S. workers are able to fill the position.
The processing time for an EB-3 visa can vary. It depends on several factors, such as the applicant’s country of origin, the EB-3 subcategory and any backlogs. On average, the process can take from 12 to 24 months.
Think of the priority date as your place in the queue for a Green Card. The date is given once the PERM labor certification is filed. The priority date is significant for EB-3 visas because visa availability is subject to annual quotas. Priority dates determine when an immigrant can apply for a visa or adjustment of status.
Once the I-140 form is approved, it may be possible to change jobs. Under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act, EB-3 Visa holders can change jobs in certain situations. However, there are various factors to consider. That is why it is recommended that you speak with an immigration attorney for advice based on your situation.