EB-3 generally depends on a permanent full-time job offer and employer-led labor certification before the immigrant petition and visa or adjustment stages.
Who this route suits
Workers with qualifying permanent U.S. employment.
Three sub-categories
EB-3 includes skilled workers (at least two years of training or experience), professionals (a U.S. baccalaureate or foreign equivalent), and other workers (unskilled workers performing jobs requiring less than two years training).
PERM labor certification
Most EB-3 cases require the employer to go through the PERM labor certification process to demonstrate no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
Important to know
Separate skilled worker, professional, and other worker classifications.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the EB-3 process take?
- EB-3 processing can take several years depending on the country of birth and priority date. Retrogression can significantly extend timelines for some nationalities.
Check before you apply. General information only. Requirements, fees, and occupation lists change. The relevant authority makes the final decision on every application. Confirm current requirements with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Related routes
Working in a regulated profession in United States?
A visa does not give permission to practise a regulated profession. Registration is a separate process.