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Programme guides · US EB-3 Skilled Worker

US EB-3 Skilled Worker in 2026: Who It Suits, Requirements, Timeline and Checklist

Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director

Summary

EB-3 skilled worker needs only a bachelor’s degree or two years’ relevant experience, with a US employer’s sponsorship — a green card route many professionals overlook.

In one sentence

EB-3 skilled worker needs only a bachelor’s degree or two years’ relevant experience, with a US employer’s sponsorship — a green card route many professionals overlook.

Who it suits

  • People with a bachelor’s degree or two years’ relevant experience
  • Those in engineering, IT, accounting, healthcare or hospitality management
  • People with a US employer willing to sponsor
  • Anyone wanting a green card without investing

Who it may not suit

  • People without a sponsoring employer
  • Those on a very tight timeline (there is a backlog)
  • Anyone not intending to work for the sponsor

Main requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree, or at least two years of relevant training or work experience
  • A permanent full-time job offer from a US employer
  • The employer completes labour certification (PERM)
  • The employer can pay the offered wage

Timeline

Step Timing What happens
Assessment and employer match Varies We assess your qualifications and confirm the employer and role.
Labour certification (PERM) Per Department of Labor timelines Prevailing wage determination, recruitment and filing of the labour certification.
File I-140 Premium processing about 15 working days Once the labour certification is approved, the employer files the I-140; premium processing is available.
Green card stage Depends on visa backlog File I-485 or attend a consular interview when your priority date is current.

Common myths

Myth Reality
You need a master’s to immigrate EB-3 needs only a bachelor’s or two years’ experience.
An approved I-140 means you can move You still wait for the backlog.
Any employer will do It must be a genuine, permanent role the employer can pay for.

Checklist before you apply

  1. Confirm your education or experience
  2. Check the employer’s background and ability to pay
  3. Understand the labour certification process
  4. Check your place-of-birth backlog

Our advice

Choosing a reliable employer and understanding the backlog honestly matter more than chasing the fastest timeline.

Every family’s background and timeline is different — book a free consultation and a consultant will assess your situation.

Learn more: US EB-3 Skilled Worker

FAQ

Is an investment needed?

No.

Can my spouse apply too?

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 receive green cards too.

What if I have no degree?

Consider EB-3 unskilled.

Can the I-140 be expedited?

Yes, under the rules.

Sources

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