Meta Description: Discover how the EB-3 visa offers skilled professionals a clear path to a U.S. Green Card. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the entire process, from PERM labor certification to your visa interview.

What is the EB-3 Visa?

The EB-3 visa is an employment-based third preference immigrant visa that provides a pathway to a U.S. Green Card for skilled professionals, professionals, and other workers. Unlike temporary work visas, the EB-3 leads directly to permanent residency, allowing you to live and work indefinitely in the United States.

At LegitJapa, we believe in transparent, verified immigration processes. The EB-3 visa represents exactly what we stand for – a legal, structured approach to relocation that delivers real results when followed correctly.

Who Qualifies for the EB-3 Visa Category?

The EB-3 visa category is divided into three distinct classifications:

1. Skilled Workers

• Must possess at least 2 years of job experience or training
• The job must require at least 2 years of experience or training
• Examples: IT specialists, chefs, paralegals

2. Professionals

• Must hold a U.S. baccalaureate degree or foreign equivalent
• The position must require a bachelor’s degree
• Examples: teachers, accountants, marketing managers

3. Unskilled Workers (Other Workers)

• Capable of performing unskilled labor requiring less than 2 years of training
• Limited to 10,000 visas annually
• Examples: housekeepers, agricultural workers

The EB-3 Visa Process: Your 7-Step Roadmap to a U.S. Green Card

Step 1: Labor Certification (PERM Process)

The Foundation of Your EB-3 Application

The Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) process is your starting point. Your U.S. employer must:

• Conduct Prevailing Wage Determination: File Form ETA 9141 with the Department of Labor to establish the appropriate wage for your position.

• Recruitment Campaign: Your employer must advertise the position to prove no qualified U.S. workers are available. This includes:

– Placing job orders with State Workforce Agencies

– Publishing newspaper advertisements

– Posting on company websites and job boards

• File ETA Form 9089: After completing recruitment, your employer submits the PERM application to the Department of Labor.

Processing Time: 6-12 months

Step 2: Form I-140 Immigrant Petition

Establishing Your Eligibility

Once PERM is certified, your employer files Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker with USCIS. Required documents include:

• Certified PERM labor certification
• Evidence of your qualifications (degrees, experience letters)
• Proof of employer’s ability to pay the offered wage
• Relevant filing fees

Premium Processing Available: 15 calendar days for additional fee

Step 3: Wait for Visa Availability

Understanding the Visa Bulletin

Due to annual quotas, you may need to wait for your “priority date” to become current. Check the monthly Visa Bulletin published by the Department of State:

• Priority Date: The date your PERM application was filed
• Current: Your place in line has been reached
• Retrogression: Visa availability moves backward

Step 4: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

The Final Application Stage

If you’re in the U.S.: File Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

If you’re outside the U.S.: Undergo consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate

Step 5: Biometrics Appointment

Security and Background Checks

After filing Form I-485, you’ll receive notice for biometrics collection:

• Fingerprinting
• Photograph
• Signature

Step 6: Interview Preparation

The Final Hurdle

Prepare for your Green Card interview with:

• Original documents and copies
• Medical examination results (Form I-693)
• Updated employment verification
• Tax returns and financial documents

Step 7: Green Card Approval

Welcome to Permanent Residency

Upon approval, you’ll receive:

• Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card)
• Work and travel authorization
• Path to U.S. citizenship eligibility after 5 years

Required Documentation Checklist

Personal Documents:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Birth certificate with certified translation
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
• Police certificates from all countries lived in for 6+ months since age 16
• Passport-style photographs

Educational and Professional Documents:

• Diplomas and degree certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Professional licenses or certifications
• Employment reference letters
• CV or resume

Financial Documents:

• Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
• Employer financial documents
• Tax returns (3 years)
• Bank statements

EB-3 Visa Processing Times and Costs

Typical Timeline:

• PERM Labor Certification: 6-12 months
• I-140 Processing: 6-8 months (or 15 days with premium processing)
• Visa Availability: Varies by country and category
• Final Adjudication: 8-14 months

Estimated Costs:

• PERM Application: $0 (government fees)
• I-140 Filing: $700
• I-485 Filing: $1,225
• Medical Examination: $200-$500
• Premium Processing: $2,500 (optional)

Common EB-3 Visa Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: PERM Audit

Solution: Maintain meticulous recruitment records and ensure all Department of Labor requirements are met precisely.

Challenge 2: Changing Employers

Solution: After I-485 filing, you can change employers using AC21 portability provisions after 180 days.

Challenge 3: Visa Retrogression

Solution: Monitor visa bulletins regularly and maintain valid nonimmigrant status while waiting.

Why Choose Professional Guidance for Your EB-3 Journey?

At LegitJapa, we’ve helped numerous professionals navigate the complex EB-3 process successfully. Our approach includes:

✅ Personalized Strategy Session: We assess your unique qualifications and recommend the optimal immigration path

✅ Document Verification: We ensure all your credentials meet USCIS standards

✅ Process Management: We guide you through each step, avoiding common pitfalls

✅ Official Source Verification: All information comes directly from USCIS, Department of Labor, and Department of State websites

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I include my family in my EB-3 application?

A: Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can obtain derivative visas.

Q: How long until I can apply for citizenship?

A: Typically 5 years after receiving your Green Card, with some exceptions.

Q: Can I change jobs during the EB-3 process?

A: Limited flexibility exists, particularly after I-485 filing for 180+ days.

Q: What happens if my employer terminates me?

A: The petition may be revoked, though AC21 provisions offer some protection.

Take the Next Step Toward Your U.S. Green Card

The EB-3 visa represents one of the most accessible pathways to U.S. permanent residency for skilled professionals worldwide. While the process requires patience and precision, the reward – a U.S. Green Card – offers unparalleled opportunities for you and your family.

At LegitJapa, we transform complex immigration processes into manageable, step-by-step journeys. Our transparent, verified approach ensures you avoid the pitfalls that derail many applicants.

Ready to begin your EB-3 journey? Contact us today for a personalized consultation and let us help you turn your American dream into a reality through proper, legal channels.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only. Immigration laws change frequently. Consult with qualified immigration attorneys for advice specific to your situation.