The EB-3 Visa process, an employment-based green card path for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers, involves a U.S. employer sponsoring a permanent job offer, followed by the employer securing DOL PERM Labor Certification, filing Form I-140 with USCIS, waiting for visa availability (Priority Date), and finally applying for Adjustment of Status (AOS) (if in the U.S.) or Consular Processing (if abroad) to get the permanent resident card (Green Card).
Key Steps in the EB-3 Process
- Job Offer & Recruitment: A U.S. employer offers a permanent, full-time job, then advertises it to test the U.S. labor market.
- PERM Labor Certification: The employer files Form ETA-9089 with the Department of Labor (DOL) to prove no qualified U.S. workers are available, establishing your Priority Date.
- Form I-140 Petition: After PERM approval, the employer files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) with USCIS to confirm your eligibility and the job offer.
- Wait for Visa Availability: You wait for your Priority Date to become current according to the Department of State Visa Bulletin, especially for Other Workers (unskilled) or if from a high-demand country like China or India.
- Final Stage: AOS or Consular Processing:
- Adjustment of Status (AOS): If in the U.S., file Form I-485 for AOS.
- Consular Processing: If abroad, apply at a U.S. consulate in your home country.
- Interview & Green Card: Attend an interview, pass a medical exam, and upon approval, receive your Green Card.
EB-3 Other Workers (Unskilled Categories)
- Other Workers (Unskilled): Jobs not requiring 2 years of training/experience.
Key Requirements
- A U.S. employer sponsor.
- Permanent, full-time job offer.
- Meet job-specific requirements (skills, education, experience).
- Conversational English proficiency.
- Pass medical exam & background checks.