Skilled workers, professionals and other workers
EB-3 includes skilled workers, professionals and other workers. Skilled-worker positions generally require at least two years of training or experience; two years of postsecondary education is not a universal requirement. Professionals have a distinct degree-based standard. Other-worker cases address qualifying positions requiring less than two years of training or experience.
The actual job requirements and the applicant’s qualifications must be assessed together. A title or a broad statement that someone is experienced does not establish the case.
Employer sponsorship and the application process
These cases commonly involve labor certification and a subsequent immigrant petition. The offered work must meet the relevant requirements, and visa availability affects the later residence process. The different EB-3 groups can face different availability constraints.
Supporting employment and qualification records
Our practice can help review the proposed position, the qualifications already held and the appropriate sequence of steps. The employer’s requirements and the employee’s education, training and experience should be supported by reliable records.
Previous filings, changes in the position and inconsistencies in employment dates should be identified before the application begins. Addressing these matters early helps clarify the record and the respective responsibilities of the employer and applicant.
PREPARING FOR A CONSULTATION
Information to prepare
A brief summary is sufficient for an initial inquiry. Detailed or sensitive records should be provided through the appropriate consultation process.
- Proposed job duties and minimum requirements
- Education and training records
- Detailed experience letters
- Employer records and prior immigration filings
Common questions
Must a skilled worker have two years of college?
No. The skilled-worker test concerns the relevant training or experience requirement, not a universal college requirement.
Is temporary seasonal employment the same route?
No. Temporary-worker classifications have a separate purpose and process.
Official sources and further reading
- Employment-based immigrant petitions — 8 CFR 204.5 (opens an official external source) ↗
- Employment-based immigrant visas — U.S. Department of State (opens an official external source) ↗
Requirements can change. Check the current official instructions and obtain advice about your circumstances.
General information only; it does not replace advice about an individual case.