If you are thinking about building a long-term future in the United States, the EB-3 visa can be a reliable way to get there. It offers a path to a permanent job and a green card for skilled workers, professionals and even applicants with limited qualifications. This guide explains the EB-3 visa meaning, who can apply, how the process works and what Indian applicants should know.
What is the purpose of EB-3 Visa?
The EB-3 visa is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa that gives foreign workers a green card through a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer. It includes three main EB-3 visa categories:
- Skilled workers: Jobs that need at least two years of training or experience.
- Professionals: Jobs that require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Other workers: Jobs that need less than two years of experience.
Who is eligible for an EB-3 visa?
To qualify, you must meet the EB-3 visa requirements, including having a permanent full-time job offer from a U.S. employer, fulfilling the job criteria and clearing medical and background checks.
Skilled workers need at least two years of experience or training, professionals need a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and other workers fall under jobs that require less than two years of training or experience, all as part of the EB-3 visa eligibility criteria.
What are the documents required for an EB-3 Visa?
You must submit a valid passport, the official job offer letter, education and experience proofs, medical examination results, police clearance and documents for dependents if included, as part of the EB-3 visa documents requirements.
EB-3 visa application process
The EB-3 visa application process involves multiple steps, with most of the work completed by the employer before the applicant begins their part.
- Employer labour certification: The employer confirms no qualified U.S. worker is available.
- Employer files immigrant petition: The employer proves the job is genuine, the applicant meets requirements and the offered wage can be paid.
- Priority date waiting: The applicant receives a priority date; Indian applicants may face long waits.
- Visa application: Outside the U.S., the applicant completes consular processing, submits documents, undergoes a medical exam and attends the interview. In the U.S., they can adjust status once the priority date is current.
- Attend visa interview: The officer verifies the job, qualifications and background.
- Receive visa and travel: After approval, the applicant travels to the U.S., receives a temporary stamp and later gets the green card by mail.
EB-3 Visa processing time & fees
Processing times vary at each stage. Labour certification can take a few months to over a year, I-140 petition approval takes several months and consular processing may take 9-24 months. For Indian applicants, the total wait time, including priority date backlogs, can exceed 10 years.
Employers pay for the PERM labour certification and recruitment costs, while applicants usually cover EB-3 visa cost items such as visa processing fees, medical exams, documentation and travel expenses.
<h2>Role of travel insurance in EB-3 Visa application
Travel insurance for USA is optional but recommended for EB-3 applicants. Many choose the best travel insurance policy or short-term U.S. health coverage to protect against unexpected medical costs during travel or before employer-provided insurance begins.
Conclusion
The EB-3 visa offers a clear pathway to a permanent job and life in the U.S., making it a valuable option for skilled workers, professionals and others with limited qualifications. While the process can be long, especially for Indian applicants, careful preparation, complete documentation and a verified job offer can significantly improve your chances.
Considering travel insurance for USA can also provide extra peace of mind, making your transition smoother and protecting against unforeseen medical expenses.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for Indian applicants?
It can take 10 years or more due to priority date backlogs.
2. Can I switch employers after filing?
Yes, if the new job is in the same or similar role.
3. Do I need to be in the U.S. to apply?
No. You can apply from abroad or adjust status if already in the U.S.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
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