EB-3 Green Card

EB-3 Green Card: A Permanent Employment Pathway for Skilled Workers and Professionals

The EB-3 (Employment-Based Third Preference) category is one of the most inclusive employment-based pathways to U.S. permanent residence. It is designed for foreign nationals who have received a permanent job offer from a U.S. employer and whose skills, education, or professional background meet the long-term labor needs of the U.S. economy.

Unlike self-petition categories, EB-3 is built around a genuine employer–employee relationship. The focus is not on extraordinary achievements, but on filling real, ongoing workforce needs with qualified and committed workers.

EB-3 Subcategories and the PERM Labor Certification Requirement

All EB-3 petitions require a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer and, in most cases, completion of the PERM labor certification process administered by the U.S. Department of Labor.

1. Skilled Workers

This subcategory applies to positions that require a minimum of two years of training or work experience. The position must be permanent and non-seasonal, and the applicant must be able to demonstrate that they meet the stated experience or training requirements.

2. Professionals

This subcategory is reserved for positions that require at least a U.S. bachelor's degree (or a foreign equivalent) as a standard job requirement. The applicant must possess the required degree at the time the petition is filed.

3. Other Workers (Unskilled Workers)

This category covers permanent positions that require less than two years of training or experience. While it offers an important opportunity for long-term employment, it is subject to more restrictive annual visa limits and typically involves the longest waiting periods among EB-3 subcategories.

The Central Role of PERM Labor Certification

Purpose of PERM:

PERM labor certification is the foundation of most EB-3 cases. Through this process, the sponsoring employer must demonstrate that there are no able, willing, qualified, and available U.S. workers for the offered position at the prevailing wage.

Employer's Recruitment Obligation:

The PERM process requires the employer to conduct a structured recruitment campaign, which may include newspaper advertisements, online job postings, and other recruitment efforts, all of which must be carefully documented and comply with Department of Labor regulations.

Key Considerations for EB-3 Applicants

Visa Backlogs and Waiting Times:

Because EB-3 is subject to annual numerical limits, applicants may experience significant waiting periods, particularly in the "Other Workers" subcategory. Timing, country of chargeability, and priority dates play a critical role in planning an EB-3 strategy.

When properly planned and supported by a compliant employer, the EB-3 category offers a realistic and stable route to permanent residence for workers seeking long-term employment and integration into the U.S. workforce.

How Celiksoy Law Firm Can Help

At Celiksoy Law Firm, PC, we understand that navigating the EB-3 Green Card process requires careful planning, thorough documentation, and strategic legal guidance. Our experienced immigration attorneys are dedicated to helping skilled workers, professionals, and employers achieve their goals of securing permanent U.S. residence through employment-based sponsorship.

Contact Celiksoy Law Firm, PC today for a consultation on your EB-3 Green Card and U.S. immigration needs.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. Please contact Celiksoy Law Firm, PC for advice specific to your circumstances.