EB3 - Skilled Workers & Professionals
The EB3 category covers skilled workers requiring at least 2 years of training, professionals with bachelor's degrees, and other workers for unskilled positions.
About EB3
EB3 has three subcategories: Skilled Workers (jobs requiring 2+ years training), Professionals (jobs requiring a U.S. bachelor's degree), and Other Workers (unskilled labor).
Who Qualifies
- Skilled Workers: Jobs requiring at least 2 years of training or experience
- Professionals: Jobs requiring a U.S. bachelor's degree (not higher)
- Other Workers: Unskilled labor requiring less than 2 years training
Requirements
- PERM labor certification from employer
- Permanent, full-time job offer
- Qualifications matching job requirements
- Form I-140 petition from employer
Current Priority Dates
Latest Visa Bulletin status for EB3 by country of chargeability.
All Other
1 JUL 2023
China
1 JAN 2022
India
15 AUG 2014
Mexico
1 JUL 2023
Philippines
1 JUL 2023
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does EB3 require PERM labor certification?
Yes, most EB3 cases require PERM certification proving no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
Can I port my priority date to a new job?
Yes, if you have an approved I-140, you can often port your priority date to a new employer's petition for a same or similar job.
What's the difference between EB3 and EB3 Other Workers?
EB3 Skilled Workers/Professionals requires 2+ years of training or a bachelor's degree. EB3 Other Workers is for unskilled positions requiring less than 2 years training.
Is EB3 faster than EB2?
It depends on your country. Sometimes EB3 has earlier priority dates than EB2 for certain countries, making 'downgrading' advantageous.
Is premium processing available for EB3?
Yes, premium processing is available for EB3 I-140 petitions, guaranteeing a 15 business day response. Note this only applies to the I-140, not PERM or I-485.