Who the H-3 is for
#- Trainees seeking U.S. training unavailable at home
- Participants in special education exchange programs
- Applicants sponsored by a U.S. organization
Official guidance to review
#Use the category-specific USCIS page and State Department resources before applying.
Requirements checklist (high level)
#- USCIS petition filed by the sponsor
- Detailed training plan and objectives
- Evidence that training is not available at home
- Intent to return after training
- H-3 is for trainees or special education exchange visitors.
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.
- Training plan and sponsor support letter
- Resume and evidence of prior training
- I-129 petition approval notice
- DS-160 confirmation and passport
Step-by-step overview
#- Sponsor files the I-129 petition with USCIS.
- After approval, complete DS-160 and schedule interview.
- Attend interview with training plan and approval notice.
- Enter the U.S. and follow the training itinerary.
Fees (verify before you pay)
#Verify Department of State visa fees and any USCIS filing fees that apply. USCIS filing fees and consular visa fees may apply.
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. USCIS petition timing and consular appointment slots affect timelines.
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
#- Training plan lacks structure or measurable objectives
- Training appears to be regular employment
- Missing evidence that training is unavailable at home
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Can H-3 trainees work in the U.S.?
H-3 is for structured training, not productive employment. Limited productive work may be allowed only if it is incidental to the training plan.
Who files the H-3 petition?
A U.S. organization or sponsor files Form I-129 with the training plan and evidence that similar training is unavailable in the trainee’s home country.
How long can an H-3 stay be granted?
Most H-3 trainees can stay up to two years. Special education exchange visitors can be granted up to 18 months.
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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