Visas 101
The E-3 Visa Breakdown
What is the E3 Visa?
The E-3 Visa is a U.S. work visa for Australian nationals that allows you to work and live in the U.S. for up to two years in a specialty occupation. This is similar to the H-1B visa but is only available to Australian citizens and has unique benefits, including a higher likelihood of approval and fewer restrictions.
A specialty occupation requires:
A theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge; and
A bachelor’s degree or higher in the specific specialty (or its equivalent). Common fields include IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance.
Who is eligible for the E3 Visa?
To qualify for the E-3 Visa, you must:
Be an Australian citizen
Have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation
Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (or higher), OR have equivalent experience/training (approx. 12 years)
Meet any U.S. state licensing requirements if your job requires it.
The E-3 visa is also available to spouses and dependent children (under 21) of the visa holders, who are able to accompany the principal applicant to the US on E-3D visas (dependent E-3 classification).
E-3 Visa Cost
Applying for the E-3 visa costs $315 USD. This does not include any attorney or visa issuance fees, which vary by consulate. Unlike the H-1B visa, the E-3 the E-3 is not subject to a lottery or numerical cap, so there are no additions fess from these.
How Long Is the Wait Time for an E-3 Visa?
Processing times can vary, but generally, it takes about six weeks from initial filings to having the visa in hand. For some applicants it can take as little as 5-7 days, while for others it can take 1-3 months.
Expedited processing is available for a fee of $2,500 USD, which guarantees a response from USCIS within 15 calendar days after the request is received.
Here is a breakdown of the average timeline for getting an E-3 visa:
Finding a job: 3+ months
Interviewing for a job: 2-4 weeks
Offer negotiation: 1-2 weeks
LCA writing and approval: 2 weeks
Visa interview wait time and document compiling: 2-10 weeks, depending on location.
Visa interview: 10 minutes
Passport return with approved visa: 1-2 weeks
How to Apply for an E3 Visa: Step-by-Step
Secure a Job Offer
Get a written job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation that details the position, salary, and required qualifications.
Employer Files a Certified Labor Condition Application (LCA)
Your US employer needs to file an LCA with the Department of Labor (DOL) and have it certified.
The LCA confirms that your employer will pay you the prevailing wage and comply with other employment laws.
The LCA must be certified before you can proceed with your visa application
Complete Form DS-160
Fill out and submit online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form, Form DS-160. This is very comprehensive document and will take some time.
You will need to upload a photo that meets specific requirements
Have your passport and any previously held US visas on hand, as well as dates of your previous travel to the US.
After submission, print the confirmation page to take to your interview
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the E3 visa application fee ($315 USD).
Schedule a Visa Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
Gather Required Documents
Passport: Valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
Job Offer Letter: Original job offer from your US employer.
LCA: Certified and signed Labor Condition Application (LCA).
Proof of Qualifications: Educational certificates, transcripts, or other documentation demonstrating you meet the job requirements.
Resume/CV: An updated resume or CV detailing your work experience, skills, and education.
Previous U.S. Visas (if applicable): Copies of any previous U.S. visas and related documents.
Form DS-160 Confirmation Page: The confirmation page from your completed DS-160 application.
Interview Appointment Letter: The appointment confirmation page for your visa interview.
Other Documents: Depending on your specific situation, you may need additional documents, such as a marriage certificate if you are applying for a dependent visa for your spouse or children.
Attend Your Visa Interview
Attend the interview at the designated U.S. embassy or consulate
Be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications, job offer, and your intent to return to Australia after your temporary stay.
Receive Your visa
If approved, you will receive the E-3 visa in your passport.
You can then travel to the U.S. and begin working for your employer.
What Happens Next?
Once you arrive in the U.S., you’re authorized to work for the employer who sponsored your E-3 visa. The visa is valid for up to two years and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. Spouses of E-3 visa holders can also apply for work authorization and are free to work in any job without restrictions.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Common mistakes when applying for an E-3 visa include:
Incorrect or incomplete LCA. The LCA is a crucial document, and errors or omissions can lead to delays or denial. Ensure the LCA is accurately filed and certified before submitting the visa application
Not meeting educational or experience requirements: Carefully review the job description and your qualifications to ensure they align with these requirements
Failure to maintain legal status: Ensure your visa is renewed before it expires and that all employment details remain up-to-date
Providing Inaccurate Information. Providing false or misleading information on the application can lead to visa denial and potential future issues with immigration applications.
Bonus Tips
Don’t forget to Americanize your resume! It might sound like a small thing but if there is a rogue “s” where there should be a “z” (“zee”, not “zed”), some employers may see it as a mistake as opposed to a difference.
While that lovely foreign accent might be charming in person, when you spell things wrong (yep, it’ll be perceived as wrong), you will put off potential hirers.
