EB-3 Employment Third Preference

The EB-3 Employment Third Preference visa was established under the Immigration Act of 1990 to provide a pathway for U.S. employers to recruit foreign nationals for permanent positions when qualified U.S. workers are unavailable. It serves as a critical mechanism for filling labor gaps across a broad spectrum of the economy, ranging from technical trades to corporate professional roles. Unlike temporary work visas, the EB-3 results in Lawful Permanent Residency, commonly known as a Green Card, upon approval.

This visa category is ideal for individuals who possess at least two years of job experience, a baccalaureate degree, or even those performing unskilled labor that is not of a temporary or seasonal nature. It is frequently utilized by professionals who may not qualify for the more stringent 'extraordinary ability' or 'advanced degree' requirements of the EB-1 and EB-2 categories. A distinguishing feature of the EB-3 is its three-tiered structure—Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers—which allows for a diverse range of applicants to seek permanent status based on employer sponsorship.