What Is an EB-3 Visa in the USA?

What Is an EB-3 Visa in the USA?

The Employment-Based Third Preference Visa, commonly known as the EB-3 Visa, is one of five employment-based immigration visas monitored by the U.S. Department of Labor (DoL) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

This visa category addresses the needs of U.S. employers who want to hire foreign workers to fill specific roles that the domestic workforce cannot adequately fill. Through this visa, a U.S. company can sponsor a foreigner to acquire a green card and lawfully work in the U.S. 

One of the distinguishing features of the EB-3 Visa is its flexibility, as eligibility includes a wide range of occupations and skill levels. The visa is divided into three subcategories:

• EB-3(A): For “professionals” with at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a foreign equivalent and relevant work experience.

   

• EB-3(B): For “skilled workers” who have a minimum of two years of job experience and relevant training (which can include relevant post-secondary education). Skilled workers must have the education, training, and experience a job opportunity requires.

   

• EB-3(C): For “unskilled workers” or “other workers” that have skills requiring less than two years of training or experience for positions that are not temporary or seasonal.