Chicago E-3 Visa Attorneys

The E-3 visa is a special non-immigrant visa category for Australian nationals who wish to work in the United States in a specialty occupation. Similar to the H-1B visa, the E-3 allows Australian citizens to enter the U.S. for employment that requires at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent. The E-3 is unique to Australians and is part of a trade agreement between the U.S. and Australia.

To qualify for the E-3 visa, applicants must have a job offer from a U.S. employer for a role that qualifies as a specialty occupation. The employer must also demonstrate that they will pay the prevailing wage for the occupation. The visa is granted initially for a period of two years, with the possibility of renewal in two-year increments. There is no maximum limit on the number of extensions an individual can receive as long as they continue to meet the visa requirements.

E-3 visa holders can also bring their spouses and children under the E-3D classification to the U.S., with spouses being eligible to apply for work authorization. Unlike some other visa categories, the E-3 is not subject to an annual cap or lottery, making it a popular choice for Australians seeking temporary work opportunities in the U.S.

The E-3 visa is a valuable option for Australian professionals, offering flexibility for both the visa holder and their family while providing a clear pathway for work in the U.S. However, like other specialty occupation visas, it does not provide a direct path to permanent residency, so those seeking to stay long-term may need to explore other immigration avenues.