Advantages
The EB-3 visa is accessible to a broad range of foreign nationals with varying education and experience levels. It’s a viable route to permanent residency for individuals with a qualifying job offer.
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EB-3 Visa
Attention Skilled Workers and Professionals - Get a FREE EB-3 Evaluation
A US Immigration Attorneys will examine, evaluate and advise next steps for your case with in 2 business days.
EB-3 Visa – Skilled Workers, Professionals & Other Workers
For skilled workers, professionals with bachelor’s degrees, and other workers in high-demand fields
The EB-3 visa is a third-preference employment-based immigrant visa for skilled workers, professionals with bachelor’s degrees, and other workers performing unskilled labor. It offers permanent residency in the U.S. and is widely used for positions where qualified American workers are not available.
It requires a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer and labor certification (PERM).
Permanent Residency
Offers green cards for workers and their immediate family members.
Job Variety
Open to skilled, professional, and unskilled positions.
Employer Sponsorship
Allows U.S. employers to fill roles that lack qualified American applicants.
Path to Citizenship
After green card approval, applicants may apply for U.S. citizenship in 5 years.
Family Benefits
Spouses and children under 21 receive green cards and may be eligible to work or study.
Timelines
The EB-3 visa process involves multiple steps and varies by applicant’s location and USCIS workload. Below are general timelines.
Labor Certification (PERM)
6–12 months
I-140 Petition Processing
6–8 months (standard)
Premium Processing (I-140)
15 days
Adjustment of Status / Consular
8–14 months
Total Time to Green Card
18–30 months
Comparison with Other Visas
This table compares the EB-3 visa with other employment-based categories including EB-2 and H1-B.
| Criteria | EB-3 | EB-2 | H1-B |
|---|---|---|---|
| For whom | Skilled workers, professionals, unskilled labor | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | Specialty occupations (temporary) |
| Labor Certification | Required | Required (unless NIW) | Not required |
| Employer Sponsorship | Required | Optional (NIW) | Required |
| Self Petition | No | Yes (NIW) | No |
| Processing Time | 18–30 months | 12–24 months | 3–6 months |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions applicants ask about the EB-3 visa process.
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What types of jobs qualify for EB-3?EB-3 covers skilled workers (2+ years experience), professionals (bachelor’s degree), and other workers (unskilled labor). Jobs must be full-time and permanent.
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Can I change jobs after receiving my EB-3 green card?Yes, but it’s recommended to stay with the sponsoring employer for at least 6 months to avoid questions about your original intent.
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Can I use premium processing for EB-3?Yes. Premium processing is available for the I-140 stage for an additional USCIS fee.
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Do I need a college degree for EB-3?Only professionals under EB-3 need a bachelor’s degree. Skilled and unskilled workers qualify based on experience or training.
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Can my family immigrate with me?Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can get green cards as derivatives of your EB-3 petition.
Attention Skilled Workers and Professionals - Get a FREE EB-3 Evaluation
A US Immigration Attorneys will examine, evaluate and advise next steps for your case with in 2 business days.