Understanding the U.S. EB-3 Visa
The EB-3 is an employment-based immigrant visa category that allows U.S. employers to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residence (a Green Card). It is one of the most accessible pathways to U.S. permanent residence for workers with varying levels of education and experience.
The Three EB-3 Subcategories
1. Skilled Workers
- Requires at least 2 years of job experience, training, or education
- The position must require a skilled worker (not temporary or seasonal)
- Examples: electricians, welders, mechanics, chefs, technicians
2. Professionals
- Requires a U.S. bachelor's degree (or foreign equivalent) in a field related to the job
- The position must require a bachelor's degree as a minimum entry requirement
- Examples: accountants, engineers, IT professionals, teachers
3. Unskilled Workers (Other Workers)
- Requires less than 2 years of training or experience
- The position must not be temporary or seasonal
- Examples: production line workers, cleaners, food service workers, packagers
- This category typically has the longest wait times due to visa bulletin backlogs
Key Requirements for All Categories
- A permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer
- Labor Certification (PERM) approved by the U.S. Department of Labor
- An approved I-140 Immigrant Petition filed by the employer
- The candidate must be admissible to the United States
The Process at a Glance
| Stage | What Happens | Typical Timeline | |-------|-------------|------------------| | 1. Job Offer | U.S. employer offers permanent position | Varies | | 2. PERM Labor Certification | Employer proves no qualified U.S. workers are available | 6-18 months | | 3. I-140 Petition | Employer files immigrant petition with USCIS | 6-12 months | | 4. Visa Bulletin Wait | Wait for priority date to become current | Months to years | | 5. Consular Processing or AOS | Apply for the visa / Green Card | 6-12 months |
Important Notes
- No guarantee of approval: Meeting the criteria does not guarantee a visa. Each case is evaluated individually.
- Priority dates: The EB-3 category, especially unskilled workers, has annual visa caps that create wait times.
- Employer sponsorship is required: You cannot self-petition under EB-3.
- Legal advice: Consult a qualified U.S. immigration attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
What De-Genesis Does
De-Genesis Travel and Tours Ltd helps candidates:
- Understand whether they may qualify for EB-3 opportunities
- Prepare their professional profile and documentation
- Connect with participating employers and authorized partners
- Navigate the logistics of travel and relocation
We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice or guarantee outcomes.
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Important Notice
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. De-Genesis Travel and Tours Ltd is not a law firm and does not provide immigration legal advice. Always consult a qualified U.S. immigration attorney for guidance specific to your situation.