E-3 VISA - AUSTRALIAN PROFESSIONALS - USA

The E-3 visa for the US is applicable only for Australian nationals (Australian citizens but not permanent residents) and their family. It allows an applicant to go to the United States to work solely in a specialty occupation.


E-3 visa applicants may be admitted to the United States for up to a two-year period, which is renewable indefinitely.

What is the definition of a 'Specialty Occupation'?

The definition of “specialty occupation” is one that requires:
 
I. A theoretical and practical application of a body of specialized knowledge; and

ii. The attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty (or its equivalent) as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States.

Generally, as a guide, the occupation must be considered a graduate specialty occupation, and might be eligible for the E-3 visa if it is listed on the Occupational Information Network website O*NET Online.

Do You need a Job Offer?

Yes. You need to have a job offer from a sponsoring employer in the United States before you can apply for the E-3 visa. Also, you must apply from within Australia or another country, but you cannot apply from in the US for the visa.

How do I apply for the E-3 visa?

1. Make an appointment with your nearest US Consulate.

2. Take all your documents to your Interview at the US Consulate, including the Job offer from your US employer.

3. Complete the standard DS-160 application form.

What is the average processing time?

In Australia, if an E-3 is approved at your Interview - then the visa is usually issued within 5 business days.

Documentary evidence required for your E-3 visa application:

1. An approved Labor Condition Application (LCA) - the U.S. employer obtains from the Department of Labor. You are advised not to book an interview appointment until you have received this form.

2. Evidence of academic or other qualifying credentials - required under Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 214(i)(1), and a job offer letter from the employer.

3. If your degree and higher-level qualifications are from an Australian institution, you do not usually need to provide certified copies or evidence of their U.S. equivalent but bring to your visa interview a copy of any certificates, and if possible, transcripts for the course of study.

4. In the absence of an academic or other qualifying credential(s), evidence of education and experience that is equivalent to the required U.S. degree.

5. A certified copy of any required license - or other official permission to practice the occupation in the state of intended employment if so required or, where licensure is not necessary to commence immediately the intended specialty occupation employment upon admission, evidence that the alien will be obtaining the required license within a reasonable time after admission.

For advice and assistance with your E-3 visa application to the US, contact VisaConnect's qualified US Attorney's:

E-3 Work Visa for Australian Professionals | US Attorneys (visaconnect.com)