Let our deep legal expertise and technology-enabled processes guide you in your U.S. immigration journey
An E-3 visa lawyer assists individuals in obtaining a nonimmigrant visa to work in the United States under the E-3 visa program. The E-3 visa is a unique visa category that is exclusively available to citizens of Australia who have a job offer in the U.S. and possess the necessary qualifications and skills. E-3 visa lawyers are well-versed in the complex legal requirements and procedures involved in obtaining an E-3 visa and can provide expert guidance and support to ensure that their clients successfully navigate the visa application process. They can also advise clients on a range of related issues, such as employment law, immigration policy, and other relevant areas of law. Our lawyers help to bring numerous E-3 employment immigrants to the U.S. every year. We make the entire process seamless and quick, schedule a consultation, and unlock the full potential of hiring foreign workers for your business.
We make employment immigration to the U.S. easy and simple. Schedule a Consultation
We make employment immigration to the U.S. easy and simple.
Schedule a Consultation
In order to meet the qualifications for an E-3 visa you must prove that you are:
In order to apply for an E-3 visa from inside the U.S. you will need to complete Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, which is designed for a change of status to E-3 or an extension of stay in the E-3 category. The following supporting documents should accompany your Form I-129:
The initial period of stay is 2 years with an up to 2-year extension of stay (no maximum number of extensions with some exceptions).
In order to change employers while you’re in the U.S. the new employer need to obtain a certified LCA for the position you will be working in and also file Form I-129. Before you can begin working for the new employer, the Form I-129 petition must be approved. USCIS may consider you to be maintaining E-3 status, following cessation of employment, for up to 60 days during the period of petition validity (or other authorized validity period).
Below are some key characteristics you should look for when choosing an E-3 lawyer.
The spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age of an E-3 nonimmigrant worker are entitled to E-3 dependent status. It is prohibited for children of E-3 workers to work in the United States.
The spouses of E-3 workers who hold valid E-3 or E-3S status are considered to have employment authorization incident to their status.
Evidence of employment authorization that can be presented to employers for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, include:
Who qualifies for an automatic extension?
Some E spouses qualify for the automatic extension of the existing Form I-766 EAD if they filed a timely renewal of Form I-765 based on the same E nonimmigrant status and they have an unexpired Form I-94 showing their status as an E-3, E-3D, E-3R, or E-3S nonimmigrant.
The dedicated team of lawyers at VisaNation has extensive experience with obtaining E-3 visas for Australian professionals. We pride ourselves on outstanding service and exceptional client care. This is what our leading business immigration lawyer Shilpa Malik said about our E-3 services:
Our team’s goal is to empower and help our clients navigate the complexities of the immigration process. Helping our clients obtain an E-3 visa is not just about securing a legal status, but also about opening doors to new opportunities and experiences in the United States.
The average processing time for an E-3 visa can vary depending on a number of factors, including the workload at the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa is being processed, the completeness and accuracy of the application, and any additional security clearances that may be required. Generally, however, the processing time for an E-3 visa is relatively quick compared to other visa categories, with most applicants receiving a decision within a few weeks to a few months of submitting their application. It’s important to note that processing times can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, so it’s always a good idea to consult with an immigration lawyer or qualified professional to ensure that you have the best chance of success when applying for an E-3 visa.
It’s never been easier to hire international workers Schedule a Consultation
It’s never been easier to hire international workers
Don’t meet the qualifications for an E-3 visa? You may have other options!
Below you will find answers to the most commonly asked questions about E-3 visa:
Do I need a lawyer for E-3 visa?
It is highly advised to retain an attorney to apply for your E-3 visa. Not only does having a professional filing your case save you time and erroneous mistakes in the long run but they’re available to answer any pressing questions you may have during the process.
How much does it cost to sponsor an E-3 visa?
The overall cost of sponsoring an E-3 visa depends on the size of the sponsoring company and the location of the employee being sponsored but when applying for an E-3 visa through a U.S. consulate abroad, the cost is $205 USD (not including separate attorney fees). Note: On May 27, 2023 the E-3 Visa application fee will increase from $205 to $315 USD. If an Australian applicant is approved without the need for administrative processing, they can expect to receive their E-3 visa within 3-5 business days after attending their appointment and having the visa stamped in their passport. It’s important to note that processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances, so it’s always a good idea to consult with an immigration lawyer or qualified professional for guidance on the specific requirements and processing times for your E-3 visa application. Employers may also be responsible for paying the cost of any necessary background checks or medical examinations required for the employee to obtain the visa.
Unlock the power of hiring foreign workers Schedule a Consultation
Unlock the power of hiring foreign workers
Is premium processing available for the E-3 visa?
Starting from February 24th, 2021, Premium Processing service is offered for individuals who are applying for a change or extension of status to E-3 classification through Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. While Premium Processing for E-3 Visas is not mandatory, it is an option that comes with an extra fee of $2,500 USD. Choosing this service guarantees that the government will respond to the petition within 15 days, which can be helpful for those who require a faster decision on their application.
Can E-3 visa apply for green card?
Yes, holders of the E-3 visa are eligible to apply for a green card (permanent residency) if they meet the requirements for eligibility. However, the process for obtaining a green card can be complex and time-consuming, and there may be limitations on the types of green card categories that E-3 visa holders are eligible for. It’s important to consult with an immigration lawyer to determine the most appropriate pathway to permanent residency based on your individual circumstances.
What is E-3 to green card adjustment of status?
The E-3 to green card process can be done in the U.S. through an adjustment of status or from overseas via an immigrant visa route. The E-3 visa does not allow for immigrant intent. This means that when you apply for an E-3 visa or request entry to the U.S. in E-3 status at a port of entry, you cannot have the intention to apply for a green card in the U.S. through the adjustment of status route.
What is E-3 immigration status?
An E-3 visa is one exclusively available to citizens of Australia who have a job offer in the U.S. and possess the necessary qualifications and skills.
Cam Australian permanent residents be eligible to apply for the E-3 visa?
No, Australian permanent residents are not eligible to apply for the E-3 visa. The E-3 visa is specifically designed for Australian citizens who wish to work in the United States. However, Australian permanent residents may be eligible for other types of work visas, such as the H-1B visa, depending on their qualifications and the requirements of their employer. It’s important to consult with an immigration lawyer or qualified professional to determine the most appropriate visa category for your individual circumstances.
VisaNation Law Group’s visa lawyers offer extensive immigration consultation to persons interested in the E-3 and other work visas. They have helped thousands of individuals successfully work in the United States.