US EB3 Work Visa Process: If you’re looking to start a new life and career in the United States, the EB3 visa might be the right choice. This visa lets skilled, unskilled, and professional foreign workers live and work permanently in the U.S.
Each year, thousands of EB3 visas are issued to individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria. This guide will explain the types of EB3 visas, the step-by-step application process, the requirements, the costs, and the many benefits of the EB-3 program.
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What is the US EB3 Visa?
The EB3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to become lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) in the United States. To qualify, applicants must have a full-time job offer from a U.S. employer and meet the specific requirements of one of the three visa categories.
Types of EB3 Visas
1. Skilled Workers
- Must have at least 2 years of job experience, training, or education relevant to the position.
- Requires a valid job offer from a U.S. employer.
- The employer must get an approved labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor.
2. Professionals
- Must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a foreign equivalent.
- The degree must be directly related to the job position.
- Also requires a job offer and an approved labor certification.
3. Unskilled Workers (Other Workers)
- No need for previous work experience or formal education.
- Must be able to perform non-seasonal, unskilled labor.
- Also requires a job offer and an approved labor certification.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the EB3 Visa
Step 1: Labor Certification (By the Employer)
- Your U.S. employer must submit a PERM Labor Certification to the Department of Labor.
- This confirms that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job.
Step 2: File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition)
- After labor certification approval, your employer files Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.
Step 3: Submit Immigrant Visa Application
- Once Form I-140 is approved, you’ll complete Form DS-260, the online immigrant visa application.
Step 4: Book an Embassy Appointment
- Schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Step 5: Attend Visa Interview
- Bring all required documents and be prepared for questions about your background and job offer.
- A final decision on your visa will be made after the interview.
Documents Required for EB3 Visa
- Valid Passport (minimum 6 months beyond your intended U.S. stay)
- Passport-sized Photos (meeting U.S. visa requirements)
- Birth Certificate
- Educational Certificates (degrees, diplomas, transcripts)
- Job Offer Letter from U.S. employer
- Labor Certification (PERM)
- Government ID (Driver’s license or national ID)
- Tax Documents (if applicable)
- Form DS-260 confirmation page
- Medical Examination results (Form DS-2054 and others)
EB3 Visa Costs
| Item | Paid By | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-140 Petition | Employer | $700 |
| DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application | Applicant | $325 |
| Medical Exam & Vaccinations | Applicant | Varies |
Note: Always check the official U.S. Department of State Fee Page for updated fees.
Benefits of the EB3 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Path to getting a Green Card for you and eligible family members.
- Work Authorization: You can work legally anywhere in the U.S.
- Family Benefits: Your spouse and children under 21 can also get Green Cards.
- Education Access: Children can attend U.S. schools and pay lower tuition rates.
- Healthcare & Social Benefits: Eligible for U.S. healthcare, Social Security, and Medicare.
- Path to Citizenship: Apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident.
- Mobility & Job Flexibility: Once you get your Green Card, you can change jobs or employers.
- Legal Protection: U.S. labor laws protect you from discrimination and unfair treatment.
- Business and Loan Access: Qualify for loans and mortgages to buy a home or start a business.
In-Demand Sectors for EB3 Visa
EB3 visas are especially beneficial for industries facing worker shortages such as:
- Healthcare
- Construction & Manufacturing
- Hospitality & Food Services
- Agriculture
- General Labor & Warehousing
Conclusion
The EB3 visa is an excellent opportunity for skilled and unskilled foreign workers to build a future in the United States. With the right job offer and preparation, this visa offers a reliable route to permanent residency and even U.S. citizenship.
Take the first step today by searching for job openings, connecting with U.S. employers, and gathering your documents. Check the official USCIS and Department of State websites for the most updated forms and instructions.
FAQs
What is the EB3 Visa?
It’s a U.S. immigrant visa that allows professionals, skilled, and unskilled workers to live and work permanently in the United States.
What is the EB3 application process?
The process includes:
- Employer gets labor certification.
- Employer files Form I-140.
- You complete Form DS-260.
- Book an embassy interview.
- Attend interview with all required documents.
Take care to avoid fraudsters!
🚫 You should never pay someone for a job application, an interview test, or an interview. A genuine employer will never request payment.