What is an E-3 employee?

Overview. The E-3 program, enacted on May 11, 2005, applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant aliens from Australia as workers in specialty occupations. The E-3 program is governed by the labor certification standards that apply to H-1B and H-1B1 programs.

Who is eligible for E-3 visa?

In order to qualify for an E3 visa, you must meet a certain set of requirements: You must be an Australian citizen. You must be in possession of a legitimate offer of employment in the U.S. You must fill a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation.

What is an LCA for E-3?

The labor condition application (LCA) is valid for the period of employment up to a maximum of three years.

What are E-3 specialty occupations?

There is no definitive or official list of specialty occupations, but the following, among others, would usually qualify:

• Accountants, auditors and related finance and administrative occupations.
• Architects.
• Arts-related professionals.
• Business managers.
• Clergy and other occupations in religion and theology.

Can I buy a house on E-3 visa?

You can buy a house on the E-3 Visa, but it can be challenging to establish the credit necessary to secure a mortgage.

Can you get an E-3 visa without a degree?

The advantage of obtaining the Employment Authorization Document is that it allows your spouse wwork anywhere, even without a college degree. Additionally, your spouse is also eligible to attend school either full-time or part time.

Does E-3 visa need sponsorship?

The E-3 visa requires sponsorship from a U.S. employer (or “petitioner”). It is very similar to the H-1B visa in terms of eligibility requirements. It is also subject to a numerical limit of 10,500 E-3 visas per fiscal year.

Can you be an E-3 specialty worker from Australia?

E-3 Specialty Occupation Workers from Australia. The E-3 classification applies only to nationals of Australia. You must be coming to the United States solely to perform services in a specialty occupation.

Can you get an E 3 visa in Australia?

E-3 Status for Australian Employees. The E-3 visa is available to citizens of Australia. The UW will sponsor E-3 status only for individuals eligible for H-1B sponsorship. Though the E-3 may occasionally be a useful alternative to the H-1B, the H-1B is often the better option.

How many years can an E-3 be issued?

The E-3 can be issued in increments of up to two years. Although the regulations do not limit the number of years that the E-3 may be used, E-3 is a nonimmigrant status which does not permit “dual intent” (intent to immigrate).

How to change E 3 status at UW?

Without exception, E-3 petitions based on UW employment must be processed through ISO on behalf of the Provost. Family members file Form I-539 to change status or extend the E-3D.