Who the EB-3 is for
#- Skilled workers with at least two years of experience
- Professionals with qualifying degrees
- Other workers meeting program rules
Requirements checklist (high level)
#- PERM labor certification
- USCIS I-140 petition approval
- DS-260 or adjustment of status
- Medical exam and background checks
Documents and evidence
#- Experience letters and educational credentials
- PERM documentation and job offer letters
- I-140 approval notice
- Civil documents for immigrant processing
Step-by-step overview
#- Complete PERM labor certification and file I-140.
- Track the priority date and complete NVC steps.
- Attend interview and medical exam if consular.
- Enter the U.S. as a permanent resident.
Fees (verify before you pay)
#USCIS petition fees and immigrant visa fees apply. USCIS, PERM, and immigrant visa fees apply.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS filing fees
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa fee schedule (Department of State)
Processing times
#Processing depends on USCIS petitions, priority dates, and interview availability. Priority date backlogs can be significant.
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
#- Incomplete PERM recruitment evidence
- Mismatched job requirements and credentials
- Failure to track priority date updates
FAQs
Who qualifies for EB-3?
EB-3 is for skilled workers, professionals, and certain other workers with qualifying experience or education.
Is PERM required for EB-3?
Yes. EB-3 generally requires PERM labor certification from the employer.
Are EB-3 wait times long?
EB-3 is subject to annual caps and can have significant backlogs depending on country.
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.
Find my visa