Overview (What is Form EX-03?)
#It is essential for applicants to be aware of the applicable fees, which vary and should be confirmed through the official fee schedule.
First page of EX-03 form
Source: EX-03 PDF
Context and workflow
#Processing time for EX-03 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official SEM processing time tool.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Application receipt (resguardo de solicitud)
- Provide fingerprints at the Foreigners Office (Oficina de Extranjería) for TIE issuance
- TIE card issuance and collection
- next stage forms
- EX-03 is commonly filed alongside Form EX-15, Form MODELO-790-052.
Who uses it
Eligibility depends on the specific stream and may require employer compliance.
When it is used
- NATIONAL-WORK: National Work Visa
Failure prevention (What causes Form EX-03 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient evidence of employment contract
- Lack of proof of health insurance
What you need (What do you need for Form EX-03?)
#- The current edition of EX-03
- Proof of qualifications
- Proof of identity
Checklist (What is the Form EX-03 checklist?)
#- Download the current EX-03 and instructions from the official SEM website
- Review the official EX-03 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of EX-03
- Sign, date, and submit EX-03 with all required supporting evidence
Examples (What are examples for Form EX-03?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Weak application: An applicant submits the EX-03 form without a valid job offer letter, leading to a delay in processing by SEM.
- Strong application: An applicant includes a detailed employment contract and proof of qualifications, resulting in a smooth approval process by SEM.
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form EX-03?)
#- Filing does not authorize immediate work
- Work permits are employer- or category-specific; changing jobs may require a new permit
- EX-03 can be rejected before substantive review for technical errors such as “Ensure form edition is current.”
- A complete EX-03 can still be denied on the merits — issues like “Insufficient evidence of employment contract” are evaluated by the reviewer even when paperwork is clean.
- Submitting EX-03 is the start of the process — applicants should expect follow-up steps such as “Application receipt (resguardo de solicitud).”
- EX-03 does not authorize work until it is approved and issued — starting work earlier can have serious immigration consequences.
Scenarios
#A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents
The case was approved within the standard timeline
Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
What happens after you submit
#- Application receipt (resguardo de solicitud)
- Provide fingerprints at the Foreigners Office (Oficina de Extranjería) for TIE issuance
- Receive a decision from SEM
- TIE card issuance and collection
- Begin employment upon receiving TIE
Verification
#This guide is derived from official SEM instructions for EX-03 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official SEM website.