Step-by-Step Guide
to EB-3 Visa Success
Unlock the power of the EB-3 visa to fill your staffing
needs with reliable international talent. Our experts guide
you through every step, ensuring a smooth and successful process.
What is the
EB-3 Visa program?
The EB-3 Visa Program enables U.S. employers to fill permanent positions by sponsoring foreign workers for green cards. Established in 1990, the program addresses labor shortages by providing renewable 10-year permanent residency to employees. It also allows workers to bring their spouse and dependent children under 21 to the U.S.

Step-by-Step
Process
Discover how EB-3 Green Card sponsorship can help you fill critical job openings. This program allows employers to hire foreign workers, ensuring a stable and committed workforce to meet long-term staffing needs.
1. Prevailing Wage Determination
The first step involves obtaining a Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD) from the Department of Labor. This ensures the offered salary meets or exceeds the average wage for similar positions in the geographic area.
Processing time: Currently 5 months
Key requirements: Detailed job description, minimum requirements, and work location
2. PERM Labor Certification (ETA 9089)
Once the prevailing wage is determined, employers must conduct a good faith recruitment effort to test the U.S. labor market.- Duration: Approximately 2 months
- Required steps:
- Posting job orders with the state workforce agency
- Running newspaper advertisements
- Internal posting notices
- Additional recruitment methods as required
- Processing time: Currently 13-14 months
- Purpose: To certify that no qualified U.S. workers are available and willing to accept the job opportunity
3. I-140 Immigrant Petition
Following PERM approval, the employer files Form I-140 to establish the employee’s eligibility for an employment-based immigrant visa.
- Processing time: Currently 9 months with regular processing
4. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
The final stage depends on whether the employee is in the U.S. or abroad:
- Adjustment of Status (I-485): For employees already in the U.S.
- Consular Processing: For employees outside the U.S. Processing time: 8-12 months, varying by location and current processing times
5. Worker’s Arrival and Onboarding
Receiving EB-3 Visa approval and starting work:
- If abroad: Employee enters U.S. with immigrant visa
- If adjusting status: Begins work with new status
- Standard onboarding procedures follow
- Employer ensures compliance with I-9 requirements
Timeline Overview
Total processing time from start to finish is currently ranging from 2.5 to 4 years, depending on:
- Government processing times
- Visa availability
- Choice of adjustment of status vs. consular processing
Note: Processing times are approximate and subject to change based on government workload and other factors.
Why work with us?
Choosing eb3.work means collaborating with a team that combines deep immigration expertise and proven recruitment strategies. We offer a direct path to resolving labor gaps by matching U.S. employers with dedicated foreign nationals eager to fill vital positions.
Industry Partnerships
eb3.work collaborates with companies across a wide range of industries such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, food service, janitorial services, multi-unit restaurant franchise groups, warehouses, and distribution centers.
Technology-Driven Solutions
Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the company offers an intuitive platform that simplifies the entire application process, meticulously tracks progress, and facilitates swift, data-driven decision-making at each phase.
Expertise
Our staff consists of immigration legal experts, industry specific recruiters, and technology professionals who bring a multi-disciplinary approach to solving labor and immigration challenges.
Geographic Reach
Though headquartered in New York, eb3.work has a nationwide presence, working with employers nationwide and foreign nationals worldwide.
Client Success
By staying focused on helping employers with chronic entry-level labor shortages, eb3.work has successfully facilitated thousands of employment opportunities, allowing our clients to achieve their long-term growth plans.
Ready to Discuss Our Partnership?
Connect with us to see how the EB-3 program can support your staffing needs and provide a steady flow of dedicated workers.
In the news
Ready to Discuss Our Partnership?
Connect with us to see how the EB-3 program can support your staffing needs and provide a consistent pipeline of dedicated workers.





