At Build Champions, we are dedicated to providing accessible immigration services to help Australian citizens achieve their professional goals in the United States. As a nonprofit organization, we offer comprehensive support for those seeking to apply for the E3 visa, a special visa category designed exclusively for Australian nationals in specialty occupations.
E3 Visa Overview
The E3 visa is specifically for Australian citizens who are offered employment in a "specialty occupation" in the United States. To qualify, applicants must be Australian citizens, possess a job offer requiring at least a bachelor's degree, have the necessary educational qualifications, and, if applicable, hold a professional license. The E3 visa is valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed indefinitely. Dependents, including spouses and children, can obtain E3D status, allowing them to accompany the visa holder to the U.S. The annual limit for E3 visas is 10,500, a quota that has never been reached.
Benefits of the E3 Visa
- Exclusivity for Australian Citizens:
The E3 visa is available exclusively to Australian nationals, making it a less competitive option compared to other visa categories.
- Annual Quota:
With an annual limit of 10,500 visas, the E3 visa offers a more accessible pathway for Australian citizens to work in the U.S.
- Cost-Effective and Convenient:
The E3 visa is more cost-effective and generally easier to obtain than the H1B visa, making it an attractive option for eligible Australian professionals.
- Family Inclusion:
Dependents, including spouses and children, can accompany the E3 visa holder. Spouses can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work in the U.S.
- Renewable Visa:
The E3 visa can be renewed every 2 years, offering long-term stability for the visa holder and their family.
E3 Visa Requirements
- Specialty Occupation:
The job must be in a specialty occupation that requires at least a bachelor's degree.
- Qualifications:
Applicants must possess the necessary qualifications for the job, including a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- Australian Citizenship:
Only Australian citizens are eligible for the E3 visa.
- Labor Condition Application (LCA):
A certified Labor Condition Application from the Department of Labor (DOL) is required.
- Intent to Depart:
Applicants must demonstrate intent to depart the U.S. upon termination of their E3 status.
E3 Visa Process
There are two main options for applying for the E3 visa:
- Applying Abroad:
- Submit Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application).
- Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
- Bring all necessary documents to the interview.
- Applying from Within the U.S.:
- File a "change of status" petition if already in the U.S.
- Submit Form G-28, Form I-129, a copy of the biographic page(s) of the Australian passport, and a copy of I-94.
- Pay the required fees.
E3 Visa Processing Time
- Change of Status Petitions:
Typically take 4 to 8 months.
- Visa Applications Abroad:
Processing times vary depending on the consulate’s availability and can range from a few days to several weeks.
Documents Required for E3 Visa
- Certified Labor Condition Application (LCA).
- Statement of support from the U.S. employer.
- Copies of educational degrees, including transcripts and education evaluations.
- Resume.
- Official job offer letter.
- Professional licenses (if applicable).
- Experience letters from previous employers.
- Passports for the applicant and dependents.
- Documents proving family relationships.
- Previous U.S. visa documentation (if applicable).
E3 Visa Forms
- DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
- Form I-129: Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
- Form G-28: Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative.
E3 Visa Fees
- E3 Visa Fee: $205.
- EAD Fee (for spouses): $410.
- I-129 Fee: $460.
- Change of Status or Extension Fee: $460.
- Visa Processing Fee: $205.
E3 Visa Interview Questions
During the visa interview, applicants may be asked about their qualifications, the role they will fulfill with the U.S. company, and their ties to both Australia and the United States.
After Obtaining the E3 Visa
- Enter the U.S. with your passport, E3 visa, and a copy of the approved LCA.
- You have a 10-day entry window before and after your approved stay during which work is not permitted.
- The E3 visa is valid for up to two years and can be renewed indefinitely.
- Maintain legal E3 status by updating any worksite or employer changes.
- If employment ends before the expected date, you must leave the U.S. by the end of your status or within 60 days, whichever is shorter.
Why Choose Build Champions?
The E3 visa offers numerous benefits for Australian citizens seeking employment in the United States. At Build Champions, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the application process with ease. As a nonprofit organization, we provide these services at affordable rates, ensuring that Australian professionals can access the opportunities available to them in the U.S. For further assistance or to begin your E3 visa application, contact us today.