EB-3 Requirements in 2026: Can You Qualify Without English or a College Degree?

EB-3 is one of the US immigration programs that interests many Vietnamese people because it offers a chance to obtain green cards for the whole family through employment.

EB-3 eligibility depends on the worker group, the requirements of the position and the rules of the program. Many people without a college degree or with limited work experience may still qualify if they meet the requirements of the sponsoring business.

Explore the details of EB-3 eligibility with Global Immigration Group, including the requirements for education, work experience, age, English and other important criteria for assessing your ability to take part in the program.

A quick summary of EB-3 immigrant visa requirements

• A US business sponsors your employment
• You meet the hiring requirements of the position
• A college degree is not mandatory for many EB-3 positions
• The program does not require an English certificate
• US immigration law sets no maximum age
• You meet the health requirements for immigrating to the United States
• You are not barred from entry under US law

What are the requirements for the EB-3 program?

To take part in the EB-3 program, applicants must meet certain basic requirements under US immigration law and the hiring requirements of the sponsoring business. Specific conditions may differ depending on the worker group and the position.

In general, workers in the EB-3 program usually need to meet the following criteria:

1. A US business sponsors your employment: The worker must receive a job offer from a US business willing to sponsor an EB-3 immigration case.
2. You meet the hiring requirements of the position: Each position has its own requirements for education, work experience or occupational skills.
3. You meet the health requirements for immigrating: Applicants must complete a medical examination at a designated facility and not have any condition that restricts immigration under US rules.
4. You are not barred from entry: The worker must meet criminal record and security requirements and comply with US law.
5. You prepare all required documents: Documents such as passports, birth certificates, degrees, work experience letters and other related papers should be complete to avoid delaying the case.

Although some general conditions apply across the EB-3 program, specific requirements differ between skilled workers, professionals and other workers. Workers should therefore look carefully at which EB-3 group fits their profile before they start preparing their case.

The EB-3 program does not require applicants to prove assets or invest capital as EB-5 does. However, workers should plan financially for case costs and living expenses during their first period in the United States.

EB-3 requirements by worker group

The EB-3 program is divided into three main groups: Skilled Workers, Professionals and Other Workers. Each group has its own requirements for education, work experience and the nature of the job.

EB-3 requirements for Skilled Workers

The Skilled Workers category is for workers who have a trade or professional training to perform a job requiring a certain level of experience.

To qualify for this category, workers generally need to meet the following requirements:

• Have at least 2 years of work experience or professional training relevant to the position.
• Be able to perform the job as required by the sponsoring US business.
• Meet the hiring standards stated in the labor certification (PERM) application.

The Skilled Workers category does not require a college degree if the position does not call for one.

EB-3 requirements for Professionals

The Professionals category applies to jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.

To qualify for this category, applicants generally need to:

• Hold a US bachelor’s degree or an equivalent foreign degree.
• Be sponsored for a job that truly requires a bachelor’s degree or higher.
• Meet the hiring criteria of the sponsoring business.

In many cases, work experience cannot replace the degree requirement for the Professionals category.

Requirements for Other Workers

Other Workers is the group that interests Vietnamese applicants most when they look into the EB-3 program.

This category is for jobs that do not require a high level of education or long-term work experience.

Workers generally need to meet the following conditions:

• The job requires less than 2 years of experience or training.
• A college degree is not mandatory.
• They meet the hiring requirements of the sponsoring business.
• They are able to perform the job as described after training or guidance.

Many Other Workers positions may suit workers who do not yet have much experience or who want to immigrate to the United States through employment without a large investment.

Frequently asked questions about EB-3 requirements

Can I join EB-3 without knowing English?

US immigration law does not currently require EB-3 applicants to hold an English certificate or reach a minimum language level. However, some US businesses may require basic English communication depending on the job. Preparing your English before you go will also help you adapt faster to your new living and working environment.

Does EB-3 have an age limit?

The EB-3 program sets no maximum age for foreign workers. However, a sponsoring business may have its own age-related requirements based on the nature of the job and its hiring needs. In practice, many workers over 40 or 50 may still qualify for EB-3 if they meet the requirements of the position and are healthy enough to work.

Do I need to show financial proof for EB-3?

No. The EB-3 program does not require applicants to prove assets or invest capital as EB-5 does. However, workers should budget for case costs, airfare and living expenses during their first period of settling in the United States.

Can my spouse and children come with me on EB-3?

Yes. EB-3 participants can include a spouse and unmarried children under 21 in the immigration case. After being issued visas and entering the United States, eligible family members also receive green cards and enjoy many of the same rights as other US permanent residents.

If you are not sure whether you meet the EB-3 requirements, contact Global Immigration Group for a case review and advice on a suitable pathway. Our team will help you identify the right EB-3 group, answer questions about eligibility and support you as you prepare your US immigration case.

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