E-3 Visa Lawyer Services – Guided by Aria Vatankhah at Green Card Link
What Is the E-2 Investor Visa?
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys provide trusted guidance for Australian citizens seeking to work in the United States under the E-3 visa program. The E-3 visa is a unique nonimmigrant visa category exclusively available to Australian nationals who have received a valid job offer in the U.S. and meet the required qualifications. Immigration attorneys at Green Card Link are highly experienced in handling the complexities of the E-3 process, from filing applications to addressing related issues in employment law and immigration policy. With their expertise, clients can confidently navigate the process and avoid costly delays.
Each year, Green Card Link helps numerous Australian professionals and their families successfully obtain E-3 visas, making the journey to U.S. employment seamless and efficient.
👉 Schedule a Consultation Today and take the first step toward securing your E-3 visa.
E-3 Visa Specialty Occupation Qualifications
To qualify for an E-3 visa, applicants must demonstrate that they:
- Are citizens of Australia
- Have a valid job offer in the United States
- Possess the required academic or professional credentials
- Will work in a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation
Applying for an E-3 Visa from Within the United States
Applicants who are already in the U.S. can apply for an E-3 visa by filing Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker. This form is used for both changes of status and extensions of stay. The petition should include:
- A certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) supporting the E-3 classification
- Academic or professional credentials verifying eligibility for the role
- A job offer letter confirming specialty occupation employment and prevailing wage compliance
- Required licenses or permissions to practice in the occupation (if applicable)
The initial stay is two years, with extensions available in two-year increments (with no maximum number of renewals, subject to certain exceptions).
Changing Employers on an E-3 Visa
If you wish to change employers while on an E-3 visa, your new employer must obtain a certified LCA and file Form I-129 on your behalf. Work with the new employer can only begin once the petition is approved. USCIS generally allows a grace period of up to 60 days between jobs while maintaining E-3 status.
How to Choose the Best E-3 Visa Lawyer
When selecting immigration attorneys for your E-3 case, look for:
- Experience and specialization in handling complex visa cases
- Strong credentials, including education, memberships, and certifications
- Clear communication, ensuring prompt updates and answers to your questions
- Transparent fees with no hidden costs
- Personalized attention tailored to your career and immigration goals
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link provide exactly these qualities, ensuring clients feel supported throughout the process.
Benefits for Families of E-3 Visa Holders
Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of E-3 visa holders may obtain E-3 dependent status. While children cannot work in the U.S., spouses enjoy employment authorization incident to status, allowing them to work without filing Form I-765. They may, however, choose to file for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as proof of work eligibility.
E-3 Visa Processing Time
E-3 visa processing is generally faster than many other work visa categories. Most cases are decided within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the U.S. consulate’s workload and the completeness of the application. Applicants who need faster results may benefit from Premium Processing, which guarantees a USCIS response within 15 calendar days for an additional government fee.
Alternatives to the E-3 Visa
If you do not qualify for an E-3 visa, other options may include:
- EB-1 Visa – for individuals with extraordinary ability, professors, researchers, or executives
- EB-2 Visa – for advanced degree professionals or those with exceptional ability
- EB-3 Visa – for skilled, professional, or unskilled workers
- H-1B Visa – for specialized professionals in high-demand industries
- L-1 Visa – for multinational executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge
- O-1 Visa – for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, business, or athletics
- TN Visa – for Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA/USMCA
Immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help you explore these alternatives if the E-3 visa is not the best fit for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the E-3 Visa
Do I need an attorney to apply for the E-3 visa?
While it is possible to apply on your own, working with immigration attorneys at Green Card Link ensures accuracy, efficiency, and legal compliance, greatly reducing the risk of denial.
What is the cost of sponsoring an E-3 visa?
The government filing fee is currently $315 USD, effective May 27, 2023 (previously $205 USD). Additional fees may apply for attorney services, background checks, or medical exams.
Can E-3 visa holders apply for a green card?
Yes. While the E-3 visa does not permit “dual intent,” holders may transition to permanent residency through family-based sponsorship, employer sponsorship, or categories like EB-1 or EB-2.
Frequently Asked Questions About the E-3 Visa
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have successfully helped countless Australian professionals secure work opportunities in the U.S. The team provides not just legal support, but also peace of mind—ensuring every detail of the E-3 application is handled with care and precision.