Applying for the EB-3 visa can be one of the most straightforward ways to get a U.S. green card—if you meet the qualifications and follow the process carefully. The EB-3 visa application involves multiple steps, from employer sponsorship to government approvals.
In this guide, we provide the ultimate checklist for a successful EB-3 visa application, ensuring you and your employer are fully prepared every step of the way.
EB-3 Visa Overview
The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa for:
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Skilled Workers with at least 2 years of job experience or training
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Professionals with a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
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Other Workers performing unskilled labor (less than 2 years of training or experience)
To apply, you must have:
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A full-time, permanent job offer from a U.S. employer
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A labor certification (PERM) approved by the Department of Labor
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A completed Form I-140 petition submitted by your employer
Step-by-Step EB-3 Visa Application Checklist
1. Employer Preparation
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Review eligibility for EB-3 sponsorship
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Determine correct job category: skilled, professional, or other worker
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Confirm permanent, full-time job offer and salary alignment with wage data
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Hire an immigration attorney (recommended for accuracy and speed)
2. Obtain Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD)
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Submit ETA Form 9141 to the Department of Labor
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Receive and review the Prevailing Wage Determination
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Confirm wage meets or exceeds prevailing wage for the job and location
3. Begin PERM Labor Certification Process
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Conduct recruitment according to DOL rules (ads, job postings, interviews)
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Retain evidence of recruitment efforts
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Complete and file ETA Form 9089
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Await PERM certification (can take several months)
4. File the I-140 Immigrant Petition
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Employer files Form I-140 with USCIS
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Include approved PERM, company financials, and worker documentation
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Optional: request Premium Processing for 15-day turnaround
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Receive I-140 approval notice (if approved)
5. Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
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Check the Department of State Visa Bulletin monthly
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Wait for your category and country to become current
6. Prepare for Adjustment of Status (If in the U.S.)
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File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) once the priority date is current
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Include medical exam, photos, and supporting documents
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Apply for EAD (work permit) and Advance Parole (travel permit)
7. Prepare for Consular Processing (If Outside the U.S.)
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Complete DS-260 online application
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Attend visa interview at U.S. consulate in home country
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Submit biometrics and medical exam results
Additional Documents You’ll Need
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Valid passport (for at least 6 months)
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Birth certificate
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Academic credentials (translated and evaluated if foreign)
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Employment verification letters
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Tax documents or pay stubs (if currently employed in the U.S.)
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Civil documents such as marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)
EB-3 Visa Timeline
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Prevailing Wage Determination: 2-3 months
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PERM Certification: 6-10 months
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I-140 Petition Processing: 6-12 months (15 days with Premium Processing)
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Priority Date Waiting Time: Varies by country and category
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Adjustment of Status/Consular Processing: 8-14 months
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
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Incomplete or outdated documentation
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Failing to meet prevailing wage
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Employer ineligibility or financial issues
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Gaps in recruitment records during PERM
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Missing deadlines or incorrect filing addresses
Final Thoughts
The EB-3 visa application process is manageable with the right preparation. Whether you’re a skilled worker or professional, using this EB-3 visa checklist can help you and your employer avoid delays and improve your chances of success.
Need help preparing your EB-3 visa petition? Agora Visa partners with employers and applicants to navigate every step of the EB-3 process smoothly.
Visit Agora Visa to start your journey today.
