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:
Skilled Workers with at least 2 years of job experience or training
Professionals with a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
Other Workers performing unskilled labor (less than 2 years of training or experience)
To apply, you must have:
A full-time, permanent job offer from a U.S. employer
A labor certification (PERM) approved by the Department of Labor
A completed Form I-140 petition submitted by your employer
Step-by-Step EB-3 Visa Application Checklist
1. Employer Preparation
Review eligibility for EB-3 sponsorship
Determine correct job category: skilled, professional, or other worker
Confirm permanent, full-time job offer and salary alignment with wage data
Hire an immigration attorney (recommended for accuracy and speed)
2. Obtain Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD)
Submit ETA Form 9141 to the Department of Labor
Receive and review the Prevailing Wage Determination
Confirm wage meets or exceeds prevailing wage for the job and location
3. Begin PERM Labor Certification Process
Conduct recruitment according to DOL rules (ads, job postings, interviews)
Retain evidence of recruitment efforts
Complete and file ETA Form 9089
Await PERM certification (can take several months)
4. File the I-140 Immigrant Petition
Employer files Form I-140 with USCIS
Include approved PERM, company financials, and worker documentation
Optional: request Premium Processing for 15-day turnaround
Receive I-140 approval notice (if approved)
5. Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
Check the Department of State Visa Bulletin monthly
Wait for your category and country to become current
6. Prepare for Adjustment of Status (If in the U.S.)
File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) once the priority date is current
Include medical exam, photos, and supporting documents
Apply for EAD (work permit) and Advance Parole (travel permit)
7. Prepare for Consular Processing (If Outside the U.S.)
Complete DS-260 online application
Attend visa interview at U.S. consulate in home country
Submit biometrics and medical exam results
Additional Documents You’ll Need
Valid passport (for at least 6 months)
Birth certificate
Academic credentials (translated and evaluated if foreign)
Employment verification letters
Tax documents or pay stubs (if currently employed in the U.S.)
Civil documents such as marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable)
EB-3 Visa Timeline
Prevailing Wage Determination: 2-3 months
PERM Certification: 6-10 months
I-140 Petition Processing: 6-12 months (15 days with Premium Processing)
Priority Date Waiting Time: Varies by country and category
Adjustment of Status/Consular Processing: 8-14 months
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Incomplete or outdated documentation
Failing to meet prevailing wage
Employer ineligibility or financial issues
Gaps in recruitment records during PERM
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.
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EB-3 Skilled Worker Visa →
Employer-sponsored green card for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.
