How to Apply for the EB-3 Visa
Are you starting your journey to secure a U.S. Green Card through employment?
Understanding the criteria and how to apply for the EB-3 visa is vital for a successful application.
In this guide, you will find a comprehensive overview of how to apply for an EB-3 visa. We cover eligibility criteria and provide actionable steps to help you successfully apply for your U.S. Green Card.
Understanding the EB-3 Visa
The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa. It allows foreign nationals to obtain a Green Card, making them lawful U.S. residents.
The program is divided into three subcategories:
- EB-3A – Skilled Workers: Those with at least two years of job experience or training.
- EB-3B – Professionals: Those with a baccalaureate degree or foreign equivalent.
- EB-3C — Unskilled or Other Workers: This category is for those performing ‘unskilled labor’ that requires less than two years of training or experience.
Applying for EB-3 Visa – process overview
To apply for the EB-3 visa, the employer and employee must complete a multi-step process.
Step 1 – Sponsorship
The employer sponsoring your application must obtain a Labor Certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This is used to prove that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
Step 2 – I-140 Petition
The employer files Form I-140 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This is known as the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers.
This form establishes that the applicant meets the EB-3 visa requirements.
Step 3 – Priority date
Once the I-140 Form is approved by the USCIS, applicants will receive a priority date. This is the date when you can either:
- Schedule your immigrant visa interview
- Apply for adjustment of status
Step 4 – Adjustment of status or consular processing
If the applicant is already in the United States, they can apply for an adjustment of status. This is done by filing Form I-485 with the USCIS.
Those outside the U.S. must file Form DS-260 and undergo consular processing. This is done in their home country at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
For a more detailed breakdown, read our guide on the EB-3 visa process.
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Working with Holborn
We have helped over
1000+
families to gain citizenship or residency
Over
$300 million
invested in CBI programmes through us
More than
$450 million
of property assets purchased in the last three years
We have helped over
40
client nationalities secure a golden visa
1000+
Families helped to gain citizenship/residency
$300 million
Amount we have invested in CBI programmes
$450 million
Value of property assets purchased in the last three years
40+
Client nationalities we have helped secure a golden visa
Who is eligible to apply for the EB-3 Visa?
Aside from the requirements for each of the EB-3 job categories, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- You must be a citizen of a country that is eligible for the EB-3 Visa program.
- You must have a job offer from a U.S. employer who will sponsor your application.
- You must meet the minimum education or experience requirements based on the subcategory you are applying for.
- You must pass a medical examination and criminal background check.
Apply for the EB-3 Visa with Holborn
The EB-3 visa offers one of the most flexible routes to securing a Green Card and becoming a lawful permanent resident in the U.S. Unlike other U.S. visa types, the EB-3 is less stringent, making it more accessible.
Download our EB-3 factsheet to learn more about the program. Alternatively, speak to one of our specialists.
Holborn Pass is an international leader in investor visas. Our expert team provides a bespoke, end-to-end service and tailored advice to support your needs.
We are part of the wider Holborn Assets Group, a leading, award-winning financial advisory company with over $2 billion in assets under management (AUM).
We have successfully helped hundreds of individuals and families secure golden visas. To find out how we can help you, book a consultation with one of our advisers.