U.S. employment-based visas allow foreign workers to become permanent residents in the country.
The U.S. issues around 40,000 EB-3 Visas annually, and the scheme provides one of the most flexible routes for securing a Green Card.
Understanding the criteria and how to apply for the EB-3 Visa is vital for a successful application.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to apply for an 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:
To apply for the EB-3 Visa, the employer and employee must complete a multi-step process.
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.
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.
Once the I-140 Form is approved by the USCIS, applicants will receive a priority date. This is the date when you can either:
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.
Aside from the requirements for each of the EB-3 job categories, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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.
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To qualify for the EB-3 visa, applicants must have a permanent job offer from a U.S. employer who acts as the principal applicant’s sponsor. Additional requirements depend on the subcategory they apply under (skilled worker, professional, or other worker).
The processing time for an EB-3 visa can vary. Factors such as the applicant’s country of origin and the backlog of applications can impact processing times. Generally, it can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months.
The main difference between the EB-2 and EB-3 visas is the level of skill or education required to apply. The EB-2 visa is for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in their field. Meanwhile, the EB-3 Visa is for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers. This makes the EB-3 far more accessible and flexible than the EB-2 Visa.
A job offer from a U.S. employer is a non-negotiable requirement for the EB-3 Visa program. The prospective employer acts as a sponsor and must file a Form I-140.
EB-3 visa applicants can include their spouse and unmarried children under 21 on the application. This allows them to obtain a U.S. Green Card, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements.