USA EB-3 Program

Overview

The EB-3 Visa Program (Employment-Based, Third Preference) is a U.S. immigration pathway designed for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers (unskilled labor) seeking permanent residency in the United States. 

 

Through the EB-3 program, foreign nationals can obtain a U.S. Green Card by securing an offer of permanent, full-time employment from a U.S. employer. For many, this program is a life-changing opportunity that opens doors to stable employment, a secure future, and eventual citizenship in the United States. 

Categories under EB-3

The EB-3 program is divided into three main categories: 

  1. Skilled Workers 

    • At least 2 years of job experience or training. 
    • Job must not be temporary or seasonal. 

  2. Professionals  

    • Requires at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or foreign equivalent). 
    • Degree must be directly related to the occupation. 

  3. Other Workers (Unskilled Labor) 

    • Jobs requiring less than 2 years of training or experience. 
    • The most common route for workers without advanced degrees. 

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the EB-3 visa, applicants must have the following 

Have a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer.

Meet the requirements of the job (experience, training, or education).

Undergo a PERM Labor Certification process where the U.S. Department of Labor confirms no qualified American workers are available for the role.

Be admissible to the United States (medical, criminal, and security checks).

Application Process

STEP 1

PERM Labor Certification  

  • Employer files with the U.S. Department of Labor. 
  • Ensures no U.S. workers are displaced by foreign hiring. 

STEP 2

 I-140 Petition (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)

  • Employer files Form I-140 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

STEP 3

Visa Application / Adjustment of Status 

  • If outside the U.S.: Apply for an immigrant visa through consular processing. 
  • If inside the U.S.: File for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485). 

STEP 4

Green Card Issuance

  • Upon approval, applicants and eligible family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) receive U.S. Permanent Residency (Green Card). 

Benefits of Start-Up Visa Program

Pathway to Green Card & Citizenship

Secure permanent residency with future eligibility for U.S. citizenship.

Family Inclusion

Spouse and children under 21 may also obtain Green Cards.

Employment Security

Work legally and permanently for a sponsoring U.S. employer.

Permanent Residency

Direct PR pathway for founders and their families.

Supportive Ecosystem

Build your business in Canada’s thriving innovation hubs.

Processing Times & Considerations

  1. EB-3 visas are subject to annual quotas and country caps, which may lead to waiting periods depending on your nationality. 
  2. Processing can range from 1 to 3 years or longer, depending on USCIS workload and visa availability. 
  3. Some categories (like “Other Workers”) often experience longer backlogs. 

How GEMS Can Help

At Global Expert Migration Strategies (GEMS), we specialize in guiding applicants through the complex EB-3 process. Our services include: 

Employer Connection

Assisting with verified U.S. employer job offers.

Eligibility Assessment

Evaluating which EB-3 category fits your profile.

Document Preparation

Supporting employers and applicants with PERM, I-140, and consular filing.

Family Applications

Ensuring your spouse and children are included.

Post-Arrival Support

Settlement services in collaboration with our partner organizations.

We also work in collaboration with URS Canada Inc. and settlement partners to ensure you and your family have the support you need when transitioning to life in the U.S. 

About us