EB-3 Visa: A comprehensive guide

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EB-3 Visa

Law firm for international law in Kerpen and Witten

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The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that offers qualified workers the opportunity to live and work in the United States. This visa is intended for skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers who have a job offer from a U.S. employer. The importance of the EB-3 visa is that it provides opportunities for both employees and employers and meets the need for skilled labor in the United States.

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The EB-3 visa

1. requirements for the EB-3 visa

Qualifications and requirements

In order to obtain an EB-3 visa, applicants must meet certain qualifications. Skilled workers generally require a college degree or equivalent, while skilled laborers must have at least two years of work experience in their field. Unskilled workers do not require specific qualifications, but the job must be permanent and not seasonal in nature.

Specialists

For skilled workers, this usually means that they have a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent foreign qualification. In addition, they must be able to prove that their qualifications meet the requirements of the position.

Skilled worker

Skilled workers must have at least two years of professional experience in their field. This experience can be proven by work certificates, references or other evidence. It is important that the experience was gained in a field directly related to the position offered.

Unskilled workers

Unskilled workers do not need any special qualifications, but the job must be permanent and not seasonal in nature. This means that the employer must prove that the position is to be filled on a long-term basis and is not only temporary or seasonal.

Work certification

An essential part of the EB-3 visa process is labor certification. The employer must prove that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the position and that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers. This process is called "Labor Certification" and is done by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Requirements for work certification

The employer must conduct a labor market test to prove that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the position. This can be done through job advertisements, job fairs and other recruitment efforts. The employer must document what steps it took to find U.S. workers and why these efforts were unsuccessful.

Employer requirements

The US employer plays a central role in the EB-3 visa process. They must be prepared to make a job offer and provide proof that they are able to pay the salary offered. In addition, the employer must submit the necessary forms and documents for labor certification.

Proof of solvency

The employer must prove that they are in a position to pay the salary offered. This can be done through tax returns, financial reports or other financial evidence. The employer must also ensure that the wage offered meets the minimum legal requirements and is competitive.

The EB-3 visa

2. application process

Step-by-step instructions on how to apply

The application process for an EB-3 visa begins with the filing of the Labor Certification Application (Form ETA-9089) with the U.S. Department of Labor. After the labor certification is approved, the employer must file an Immigrant Petition (Form I-140) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the petition is approved, the applicant can either apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate abroad or, if already legally present in the U.S., apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485).

Step 1: Work certification

The first step in the application process is to apply for labor certification with the U.S. Department of Labor. The employer must complete and submit the ETA-9089 form. This process can take several months as the Department of Labor carefully reviews the information submitted and ensures that all legal requirements are met.

Step 2: Immigration petition

After the labor certification is approved, the employer must file Form I-140, the Immigration Petition, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition confirms that the employer is offering a position to the foreign worker and that the worker meets the required qualifications. Approval of the petition can take several months, depending on the workload of the USCIS and the complexity of the case.

Step 3: Visa application or adjustment of status

Once the immigration petition is approved, the applicant can either apply for a visa at a U.S. consulate abroad or, if already legally present in the U.S., apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485). This step involves submitting additional documents and evidence and possibly an interview with a consular officer or USCIS officer.

The EB-3 visa

3. documentation and evidence

Various documents and proofs are required to apply for the EB-3 visa. These include:

Personal documents

  • Valid passportThe passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the USA.
  • Birth certificateThis serves as proof of the applicant's identity and date of birth.
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)If the applicant is married, the marriage certificate must be submitted.

Professional and financial documents

  • Training certificates and referencesThese documents prove the applicant's qualifications and professional experience.
  • Job offer from the US employerA formal job offer that includes the details of the position offered and the salary.
  • Work certification: The labor certification approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
  • Financial evidence from the employerDocuments proving that the employer is able to pay the salary offered.
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The EB-3 visa

4. advantages and challenges of the EB-3 visa

Advantages for employees and employers

The EB-3 visa offers numerous advantages. For employees, it means the opportunity to live and work permanently in the USA, as well as the prospect of a green card. Employers benefit from the opportunity to hire qualified workers from abroad and meet their need for skilled labor.

Potential challenges and obstacles

Despite the benefits, the EB-3 visa process can also present challenges. The most common problems include delays in labor certification, denials due to insufficient evidence and difficulties in complying with legal requirements.

The EB-3 visa

5 The role of an attorney in the EB-3 visa application process

Necessity of legal representation

Applying for an EB-3 visa is a complex process that involves numerous legal and administrative requirements. Therefore, legal representation is essential in many cases. An experienced Lawyer can ensure that all necessary documents are submitted correctly and that the legal requirements are met.

How a lawyer can make the process easier

An attorney can greatly facilitate the EB-3 visa process by helping applicants and employers prepare the necessary documents and evidence and guiding them through the entire application process. In addition, an attorney can assist in solving problems and overcoming obstacles.

The EB-3 visa

6. common mistakes and how to avoid them

Typical errors when applying

The most common mistakes made when applying for an EB-3 visa include incomplete or incorrect documents, missing evidence and delays in submission. Non-compliance with legal requirements can also lead to rejections.

Strategies for avoiding these mistakes

To avoid these mistakes, applicants and employers should carefully prepare all required documents and ensure that they are complete and accurate. They should also work with an experienced lawyer at an early stage to ensure that all legal requirements are met and that the application process runs smoothly.

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The EB-3 visa

7. success stories and case studies

Testimonials from successful applicants

Many applicants have successfully completed the EB-3 visa process and have been able to realize their dreams of living and working in the United States. Successful applicants often report the importance of careful preparation and the assistance of an experienced Lawyer.

Analysis of difficult cases

Even difficult cases can be solved successfully if the right strategies are applied. Case studies show that even complex and challenging situations can be overcome if all the necessary evidence is provided and the legal requirements are met.

The EB-3 visa

8. costs of the application

The cost of applying for an EB-3 visa can vary and depends on several factors, including U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fees, attorney fees, and other related expenses. Here are the typical cost items that applicants and employers can expect:

USCIS fees

Work certification application (form ETA-9089)
  • Fee: Currently no fee for filing this form with the U.S. Department of Labor.
Immigration petition (Form I-140)
  • FeeThe fee for filing Form I-140 is currently USD 700. This fee is paid by the employer.
Adjustment of status (Form I-485) or consular processing
  • Fee for Form I-485If the applicant is already in the U.S. and is applying for adjustment of status, the fee for Form I-485 is currently $1,140, in addition to an $85 biometric fee (totaling $1,225).
  • Consular processing feeIf the applicant applies for the visa at a US consulate abroad, the consular processing fee is currently 325 USD.
Biometric services
  • FeeIf biometric services are required, the fee is an additional 85 USD.

Legal fees

The legal fees may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the experience of the Lawyer vary considerably. Typically, the legal fees for applying for an EB-3 visa range from $3,000 to $7,000. These costs usually cover advice, preparation and submission of the necessary forms and documents, as well as representation of the applicant throughout the process.

Other possible costs

  • Translation feesIf documents need to be translated from another language into English, additional costs may be incurred.
  • Travel expensesIf an interview at a U.S. consulate abroad is required, travel and lodging expenses may apply.
  • Medical examinationsSome applicants will be required to undergo a medical examination, the cost of which can vary, but is usually between 200 and 500 USD.

Optional fees

  • Premium ProcessingFor Form I-140, expedited processing ("Premium Processing") is available at an additional cost of USD 2,500. With this service, the USCIS guarantees a processing time of 15 calendar days.
Sample cost breakdown

To give you an idea of the total cost, here is an example of a typical cost breakdown:

  1. Work certification application (form ETA-9089)0 USD
  2. Immigration petition (Form I-140)700 USD
  3. Status adjustment (Form I-485)1,225 USD
  4. Legal fees5,000 USD
  5. Medical examination300 USD
  6. Translation fees200 USD (depending on the volume of documents to be translated)
  7. Travel expenses for consular interview1,000 USD (depending on location)

Total costs (without Premium Processing)approx. 8,425 USD

Additional costs for Premium Processing (if desired)2,500 USD

Total costs with Premium Processingapprox. 10,925 USD

Applying for an EB-3 visa can involve significant costs, both for the applicant and the employer. It is important to plan ahead for all potential costs and ensure that both the employer and the employee have the necessary financial resources to complete the process. The support of an experienced Lawyer may incur additional costs, but it can also help to make the process smoother and more successful.

The EB-3 visa

9. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the EB-3 visa?

The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that offers qualified workers the opportunity to live and work in the United States. It is intended for skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers.

Who is eligible for the EB-3 visa?

Skilled workers usually need a university degree or equivalent, skilled workers need at least two years of work experience in their field, and unskilled workers do not need any special qualifications, but the job must be permanent and not seasonal.

What is a labor certification?

Labor certification is proof the employer must provide that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job and that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers.

What role does the employer play in the EB-3 visa process?

The employer must make a job commitment, provide proof that they can pay the offered wage, and submit the necessary forms and documents for labor certification.

What documents are required to apply for the EB-3 visa?

Required documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), educational credentials and employment references, job offer from U.S. employer, labor certification and financial proof from employer.

How long does the EB-3 visa process take?

The length of the EB-3 visa process can vary, but it typically takes several months to over a year, depending on the processing time of the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Is the support of a lawyer necessary?

Applying for an EB-3 visa is complex, and the assistance of an experienced attorney can make the process easier and increase the chances of success. A Lawyer can ensure that all necessary documents are submitted correctly and that the legal requirements are met.

What are the most common mistakes when applying for an EB-3 visa?

Common errors include incomplete or incorrect documents, missing evidence and delays in submission. Non-compliance with legal requirements can also lead to rejections.

What are the advantages of an EB-3 visa?

The EB-3 visa allows qualified workers to live and work in the U.S. permanently and offers employers the opportunity to hire qualified workers from abroad.

What happens if my EB-3 visa application is denied?

If your EB-3 visa application is denied, you should carefully review the reasons for denial and, if necessary, discuss with an experienced attorney whether it makes sense to reapply or if other options are available.

The EB-3 visa

10 Conclusion

Summary of the most important points

The EB-3 visa offers qualified workers the opportunity to live and work in the USA. The application process is complex and requires numerous documents and supporting evidence. Careful preparation and the assistance of an experienced attorney are critical to the success of the application.

Call to action: Why clients should act now

Potential applicants should not hesitate to begin the EB-3 visa process. The demand for skilled labor in the U.S. is high, and a successful EB-3 visa can pave the way to a new life in the United States. Contact an experienced attorney today to take the first step.

The EB-3 Visa is a valuable opportunity for skilled workers to utilize their skills and build a new life in the US. Employers can benefit from an expanded pool of talent and ensure that their companies are staffed with the best available professionals. With the right preparation and support, the EB-3 visa process can be successfully navigated, and both employees and employers can benefit from the many opportunities this visa offers.

Do you need legal support in applying for an EB-3 visa?

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Law firm for international law in Kerpen and Witten

Lawyer for - International Law | Employment Law | Criminal Law | IT Law | Data Protection

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