E-3 Visa

A dedicated work visa exclusively for Australian citizens in specialty occupations.

Overview

About This Visa

The E-3 visa is a nonimmigrant employment visa exclusively for Australian citizens, allowing them to work in specialty occupations in the United States. It offers a streamlined application process and dedicated visa numbers compared to the H-1B.

The E-3 has a dedicated annual cap of 10,500 visas that rarely fills, making it available year-round. E-3 visas are initially valid for up to 2 years and renewable indefinitely in 2-year increments.

A major advantage of the E-3 is that spouses receive E-3D dependent visas with automatic work authorization—no separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is required.

10,500

Dedicated E-3 visa cap—rarely fills, so visas are available year-round

Eligibility

Who Qualifies for an E-3?

  • Australian citizenship (dual citizens eligible; need not be born in Australia)

  • Job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor's degree

  • Qualifications matching the specialty occupation requirements (degree, transcripts, certifications)

  • Licensure if required for the specific profession

Process

The E-3 Process

1

Secure a Job Offer

Obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer for a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation.

2

Labor Condition Application

Employer obtains a certified LCA from the Department of Labor, confirming prevailing wage and working conditions.

3

Visa Application

Complete Form DS-160 and pay the $315 application fee. Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

4

Enter the U.S.

After visa approval, travel to the United States to begin work for your sponsoring employer.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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