EB-3

What Is the EB-3 Visa?

The EB-3 visa is the third preference in the U.S. employment-based immigration system, reserved for:

Skilled Workers – roles requiring at least two years of training or experience (labor certification required).
Professionals – positions requiring a U.S. bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Other Workers – unskilled roles requiring less than two years of training, non-seasonal.

A total of 40,000 EB-3 visas are available annually, with 10,000 set aside for Other Workers.

EB3 Visa Requirements

EB-3 Required Documentation

EB-3 Green Card Application Process

Step 1: Obtain PERM Labor Certification

Your U.S. employer must file ETA Form 9089 to certify that no qualified U.S. workers are available and that hiring you will not adversely affect U.S. workers’ wages or conditions.

Step 2: File Form I-140

Once PERM is certified, the employer submits Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, demonstrating the job offer and your qualifications. Premium Processing is available for faster decision.

Step 3: Choose Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status

Inside the U.S.: If you have valid nonimmigrant status and your priority date is current, file Form I-485 to adjust status.
Abroad: After I-140 approval, the National Visa Center handles fees, documents, DS-260 completion, and schedules your consular interview.

Step 4: Attend Interview & Obtain Green Card

Bring originals of all required documents to your consular or USCIS interview. Upon approval, you and your family receive permanent resident status.

Questions? You’re covered.

Do I need a U.S. employer to file an EB-3?

Yes. EB-3 requires employer sponsorship; there is no self-petition option.

How long is the EB-3 wait?

Wait times vary by country and subcategory as shown in the monthly Visa Bulletin; dates may advance or retrogress.

Can my spouse and children join me?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 derive status and may apply with you concurrently.

What if my job requirements change?

Significant changes after PERM certification may require a new labor certification and I-140. Consult your attorney.

Is dual intent allowed?

Yes. EB-3 is an immigrant category and allows individuals to maintain nonimmigrant visas while pursuing a green card.

Can I upgrade to EB-2 later?

Yes. If you qualify for EB-2, your employer can file a new PERM and I-140 under EB-2 while retaining your EB-3 priority date.

How long is the EB-3 visa processing time?

The EB-3 visa processing time typically takes 1.5 to 3 years, depending on labor certification, USCIS processing, visa availability, and the applicant’s country of origin.

Why Choose Onal Gallant?

At Onal Gallant, we deliver benchmark-setting excellence in EB-3 representation, combined with boutique-level attention and cost efficiency. Our dedicated team manages every detail: from strategic job classification and PERM recruitment to airtight I-140 filings, AOS interview prep, and consular advocacy. We anticipate USCIS and consular pitfalls, preassemble the strongest evidence, and stay on top of Visa Bulletin movements so you never miss your window.

Ready to lock in your permanent status through EB-3? Contact Onal Gallant today for a tailored action plan.