How Much Do EB-3 Workers Earn? Real Income and Building a Stable Life

Income is one of the top concerns when people look into the EB-3 immigration program. Many want to know how much EB-3 workers earn and whether that income is enough to cover life in the United States and support a whole family.

In this article, Global Immigration Group looks at EB-3 wages in detail, the factors that affect income and what to consider before deciding to immigrate through employment.

How much do EB-3 workers earn?

Unlike some labor programs with fixed wages, the EB-3 program does not set a single income level for all workers. Instead, an EB-3 worker’s wage depends on the position, the job requirements and the work location in the United States.

Under US rules, a business sponsoring a worker under EB-3 must pay at least the prevailing wage set by the US Department of Labor for the specific position and work location. This rule ensures that hiring foreign workers does not negatively affect the wages and working conditions of US workers.

For example, the same job may pay significantly more in California or New York than in states with a lower cost of living, such as Texas, Oklahoma or Indiana. Likewise, positions requiring a trade, a degree or professional experience usually pay more than unskilled jobs.

Although the EB-3 program has no fixed wage, many common jobs in this category usually pay from about USD 30,000 to USD 90,000 a year, depending on the occupation, the hiring business and the work location.

A worker’s actual take-home income may differ after federal tax, state tax (if any), insurance and other deductions required in the United States.

Reference wages for some common EB-3 jobs

EB-3 wages may differ depending on the occupation, the hiring business and the state of employment. Below is reference income for some common jobs that often appear in the EB-3 program.

Jobs requiring professional skills or occupational certificates usually pay more than unskilled positions. Workers with more experience or working in areas with high hiring demand may also receive more attractive wages.

Do EB-3 workers get raises?

Yes. EB-3 workers can still receive raises after starting work in the United States if they meet the conditions and policies of the hiring business.

Raises may depend on many factors, such as:

• Work performance and accumulated experience
• The business’s periodic raise policy
• The company’s business performance
• Changes in position or job responsibilities

Besides base pay, some businesses may also offer other benefits, such as:

• Performance bonuses
• Overtime pay as required
• Health insurance
• Paid leave
• Training or occupational skill development support

After becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States, workers have more freedom to choose jobs that fit their career direction.

Can I take on other work while in the United States on EB-3?

After entering the United States as a lawful permanent resident, the worker has the right to work there under current rules. In the early period, however, workers should consider their obligations to the sponsoring business and consult an immigration specialist if they plan to change jobs.

Is the wage for the EB-3 job you are interested in enough to support your whole family in the United States? Talk to the Global Immigration Group team for an analysis of income and living costs and a choice of immigration pathway that suits your goals.

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