Want to work in the U.S.? The EB-3 visa might be an option for you. But here's the catch: you need a U.S. employer to sponsor you.

How does it work?

1. Find a sponsor: Your future U.S. employer needs to believe you're the perfect fit for a job they can't fill with a qualified American worker.

2. Labor certification: Your employer has to go through a process called PERM to prove there's no one else for the job. This involves advertising the position and trying to find qualified U.S. workers.

3. I-140 petition: Once the labor certification is approved, your employer files this form with USCIS. It's like a formal job offer for immigration purposes.

4. Green card or visa: If the I-140 is approved and a visa number is available, you can either adjust your status if you're already in the U.S. or go through the consular process at a U.S. embassy or consulate if you're overseas.

But what if I don't have a job lined up?

If you've got extraordinary abilities or your work is in the national interest, you might qualify for the EB-1A or EB-2 NIW categories. These let you apply for a green card without an employer sponsor.

Need more help?

Immigration law can be complex. If you're considering an EB-3 visa or exploring other options, talking to an immigration attorney is a smart move. They can guide you through the process and help you understand your chances.