EB-3 US Immigration

EB-3 (Employment-Based Third Preference) is a US employment-based immigrant category. A US employer sponsors a foreign worker when it cannot find a suitable US worker for the position. Once approved, the applicant, spouse and unmarried children under 21 may receive green cards.

Who is EB-3 for?

• Skilled workers: jobs requiring at least 2 years of experience or training that are not seasonal or temporary.
• Professionals: positions requiring a US bachelor’s degree or an equivalent foreign degree.
• Other workers: jobs requiring less than 2 years of training or experience.

Basic requirements

• A US employer sponsors a full-time, permanent job.
• You meet the requirements of the position, with evidence of degrees or experience if needed.
• You meet health and background requirements during immigrant visa review.

The 6-step process

1. Case assessment: we review your experience, degrees and background to identify the right group.
2. Job placement: you are matched with a US employer’s job; the employer carries out the required recruitment process.
3. PERM labor certification: the employer files with the US Department of Labor (DOL).
4. Form I-140: filed with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to confirm the sponsor’s ability and the applicant’s eligibility.
5. NVC and interview: when your turn comes under the Visa Bulletin, you complete your file at the National Visa Center, have a medical examination and interview at the US Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City.
6. Entry: you receive your immigrant visa, travel to the United States to work for the sponsor and receive your green card.

Time and cost

Timing depends on DOL and USCIS processing speed and on priority dates in the Visa Bulletin, so it can change from year to year. Costs depend on the worker group and the employer. You can read more in our immigration guides or contact us for specifics on your case.

Updated November 2, 2026. This content is for reference only and is not legal advice for any individual case.