As the demand for skilled and unskilled workers in the United States continues to rise, the EB-3 visa stands as a powerful and permanent pathway for foreign nationals to achieve their American dream. In 2025, while the core eligibility criteria remain unchanged, several key updates and procedural shifts—including the Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) system—are shaping how applicants and employers navigate the process.
Whether you’re a skilled professional, an experienced worker, or someone looking to fill essential but less specialized roles, understanding the EB-3 visa’s eligibility, process, and where to find job sponsorships is crucial. This guide unpacks everything you need to know to maximize your chances of securing an EB-3 visa in 2025.
What is the EB-3 Visa and who is it for?
The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that leads directly to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card). Unlike temporary work visas (such as H-1B or H-2B), the EB-3 category is designed for foreign nationals with employer sponsorship for full-time, permanent jobs in the U.S. The program is divided into three subcategories:
-
- Skilled Workers – Requires at least two (02) years of training or work experience.
- Professionals – Requires a U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in an occupation where this is the normal entry requirement.
- Other (Unskilled) Workers – For permanent (non-seasonal) jobs requiring less than two years of training or experience.
With these broad subcategories, the EB-3 visa remains an accessible and viable route for workers across various industries, from engineering and IT to hospitality and construction.
New 2025 Applicable Changes for EB-3 Visa Program
1# Foreign Labor Application Gateway (FLAG) System: The FLAG system, introduced in June 2023, is now a mandatory platform for employers submitting labor certification applications (Form ETA-9089). This electronic system has streamlined applications but also introduced new procedural nuances.
2# Processing Backlogs & Priority Dates: Due to high demand, priority dates for EB-3 applicants fluctuate each month. The USCIS Visa Bulletin determines when an applicant can proceed with their visa application.
3# Faster Processing for Certain Professions: Some industries facing labor shortages—such as healthcare and skilled trades—have seen expedited labor certifications and employer sponsorship approvals.
Who Can Apply for an EB-3 Visa in 2025?
To be eligible for an EB-3 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Skilled Workers – Minimum two (02) years of training or experience.
- Professionals – A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
- Unskilled Workers – No formal training required; must have an employer willing to offer a full-time, permanent job.
3 Job Categories Qualify for EB-3 Visa in 2025
- Skilled Workers – Welders, electricians, IT technicians, cooks, and manufacturing workers.
- Professionals – Engineers, accountants, healthcare administrators, teachers, and financial analysts.
- Unskilled Workers – Housekeeping staff, janitors, farmworkers (non-seasonal), and food service staff.
EB-3 vs. Other U.S. Work Visa Categories
| Visa Type | Type | Eligibility | Job Offer Required? | Labor Certification Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EB-3 | Immigrant (Green Card) | Skilled, professional, and unskilled workers | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| H-1B | Nonimmigrant (Temporary) | Specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| H-2B | Nonimmigrant (Temporary) | Temporary, non-agricultural work | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| EB-1 | Immigrant (Green Card) | Extraordinary ability, researchers, and multinational executives | ❌ No (self-petition possible) | ❌ No |
| EB-2 | Immigrant (Green Card) | Advanced degrees or exceptional ability | ✅ Yes (unless NIW) | ✅ Yes (unless NIW) |
Understanding these differences helps applicants choose the right path based on their qualifications and job opportunities.
How to Apply for an EB-3 Visa: Step-by-Step Guide
You need to follow these 4 simple steps to successfully apply for your EB-3 Visa in 2025 as per this https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers/employment-based-immigration-third-preference-eb-3:
Step 1: Secure a Permanent Job Offer & Labor Certification: Your employer must offer you a full-time, permanent job and submit Form ETA-9089 via the FLAG system.
Step 2: Employer Files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker): After labor certification approval, the U.S. employer files Form I-140 with USCIS.
Step 3: Wait for Visa Availability (Priority Date): Check the USCIS Visa Bulletin monthly to track your priority date.
Step 4: Final Processing (Adjustment of Status OR Consular Processing)
-
- If in the U.S.: File Form I-485 to adjust status to permanent resident.
- If outside the U.S.: Apply for an immigrant visa through consular processing (Form DS-260).
