The EB3 category of employment-based immigration provides an essential pathway for workers seeking permanent residency in the United States. It encompasses three subcategories: skilled workers, professionals, and other workers, each contributing to the U.S. economy by filling critical labor gaps across various industries.

EB3 Subcategories:

1. Skilled Workers: Applicants must have at least two years of relevant work experience or training. These workers typically fill roles in industries such as healthcare, technology, and engineering, where their expertise supports economic growth and innovation.
2. Professionals: This subcategory is for individuals holding at least a bachelor’s degree in their field. They contribute specialized knowledge in areas like education, finance, and research, strengthening the country’s workforce.
3. Other Workers (Unskilled Laborers): This category includes workers in positions that require less than two years of training or experience, such as roles in agriculture, hospitality, and construction. Despite requiring fewer formal qualifications, these roles are vital for industries that rely on manual labor.

Application Process:

• Employer Sponsorship: Unlike EB2 NIW applicants, EB3 candidates must have a U.S. employer sponsor their petition. The employer must demonstrate that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
• Labor Certification (PERM): The employer must complete the PERM labor certification process to verify the job market need before filing Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Once the I-140 is approved and a visa number is available, applicants can apply for a green card through adjustment of status (if in the U.S.) or consular processing (if abroad).

Benefits of EB3:

• Provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled and unskilled workers.
• Helps fill labor shortages in essential industries.
• Offers long-term stability and career opportunities in the United States.

Conclusion:

The EB3 visa category plays a crucial role in addressing labor market demands by attracting a diverse range of skilled and unskilled workers to the United States. By enabling employers to hire foreign talent where domestic shortages exist, the program supports economic growth and workforce stability, making it a valuable component of the U.S. immigration system.