Navigating the complex world of U.S. immigration can be daunting, but understanding the various visa categories can help you identify the right path for your unique situation. One such pathway is the EB-3 visa, a popular choice for foreign workers seeking to live and work in the United States. In this blog, we’ll explore what an EB-3 visa is, the costs involved in applying, the processing times, and how you can take the next step toward achieving your immigration goals.
What is an EB-3 Visa?
The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa category that grants foreign workers the opportunity to establish permanent residency in the United States while working. It falls under the third preference category of employment-based immigration and targets skilled workers, professionals, and others with a job offer from a U.S. employer. Beyond enabling individuals to live and work in the U.S., the EB-3 visa is a pathway to acquiring permanent residency, often called a green card.
The EB-3 visa comprises three distinct subcategories:
- Skilled Workers: Designed for individuals whose roles necessitate a minimum of two years of training or work experience.
- Professionals: Tailored for individuals whose positions mandate at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent.
- Unskilled Workers (Other Workers): Reserved for individuals engaged in unskilled labor demanding less than two years of training or experience.
What is the Cost of Filing an EB-3 Visa Application?
Applicants within the U.S. are required to pay various fees, including a $715 filing fee for Form I-140 covered by the employer, a $235 immigrant fee, a $1,440 filing fee for Form I-485, and an $85 biometrics fee for applicants aged 14 to 79.
Individuals applying from other countries will need to pay a $715 filing fee for Form I-140, covered by the sponsoring employer, a $345 filing fee for Form DS-260 (Green Card application), a $120 fee for Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), and an $85 biometrics fee for applicants between the ages of 14 and 79.
The fees provided use the most recent information but could change, so it’s recommended to check the latest fee schedule on the USCIS website or seek advice from an immigration lawyer for precise details.
How Long Does it Take to Receive an EB-3 Visa?
The processing times for the EB-3 visa involve several stages, each with its timeframe. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps and the time you can expect to spend at each stage:
Form I-140 Processing Time:
The typical processing period for Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, is around 4 months. Opting for premium processing can speed up the I-140 petition, reducing the processing time to just 15 calendar days. This choice incurs an extra cost, but it can significantly reduce the wait time.
Waiting for Visa Availability:
After Form I-140 is granted permission, the individual needs to wait for a visa number to become available. The waiting period depends on the applicant’s nationality and the demand for EB-3 visas from that specific country. Due to high demand, wait times may be longer for applicants from countries like India and China during this phase.
Form I-485 Processing Time (Adjustment of Status):
If the candidate is currently within the U.S. and qualifies to change their status, the typical processing duration for Form I-485 for work-based visa requests varies from 7.5 to 32.5 months. Various factors, such as the applicant’s situation and the workload of the processing center, can also affect this time frame.
Consular Processing:
Applicants from other countries will have their application sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) before being transferred to the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate. The timing of an interview and the waiting period afterward will vary based on the particular embassy or consulate and where the applicant is located. Depending on different factors, this procedure may last for many months up to more than a year.
Note that the time required for processing may differ depending on your unique circumstances and geographical location. Seeking advice from an immigration lawyer can help you obtain more precise assessments customized for your situation.
Ready to Address Your Immigration Needs?
Navigating the EB-3 visa process can be complex, but with the correct information and support, you can successfully achieve your goal of living and working in the United States. Whether you are a skilled, professional, or unskilled worker, the EB-3 visa provides a valuable opportunity to build a new life in the U.S.
If you are in Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Tamarac, Parkland, Deerfield Beach, Sunrise, Oakland Park, Fort Lauderdale, and Plantation, contact the Law Office of 360 Immigration Law Group for a complimentary consultation. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your options and confidently guide you through the process. Contact us today at 954.667.3660 to schedule your appointment.