Who the E-3 is for
#- Australian citizens with a specialty occupation job offer
- Professionals with degree-level credentials
- Applicants with a U.S. employer prepared to file an LCA
Official guidance to review
#Use the category-specific USCIS page and State Department resources before applying.
Requirements checklist (high level)
#- Australian citizenship
- Specialty occupation job offer
- Certified LCA from the U.S. Department of Labor
- Relevant degree or equivalent experience
- E-3 is limited to Australian citizens in specialty occupations.
Documents and evidence
#Prepare credentials, job or program details, and evidence that matches your visa category. Consular posts may request additional documents based on your case.
- Certified LCA and offer letter
- Degree transcripts and credential evaluations
- Resume and professional licenses (if required)
- DS-160 confirmation and passport
Step-by-step overview
#- Employer files and receives a certified LCA.
- Complete DS-160 and schedule a consular interview.
- Attend interview with job and credential evidence.
- Enter the U.S. and maintain employment terms.
Fees (verify before you pay)
#Verify Department of State visa fees and any USCIS filing fees that apply. Visa fees are paid at the time of DS-160 submission.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa fee schedule (Department of State)
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS filing fees
Processing times
#Timelines depend on USCIS petition steps (if required) and consular interview availability. Consular wait times can vary; plan ahead for start dates.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS processing times tool
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa appointment wait times (Department of State)
Common mistakes that cause delays
#- Missing or expired LCA at interview
- Insufficient evidence of specialty occupation credentials
- Job duties mismatch between offer letter and LCA
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Do I need an H-1B-style USCIS petition for E-3?
Most applicants apply directly at a U.S. consulate with a certified LCA and do not need a USCIS petition.
Can E-3 spouses work in the U.S.?
Yes. E-3 spouses are generally eligible to apply for work authorization after arrival.
Is there a cap on E-3 visas?
Yes, but the annual E-3 cap is rarely reached. The visa remains available in most years.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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