E-3 Visa for Australians, Explained
Learn about the cost, wait time, and how to apply for this specialty work visa
What Is the E-3 Visa?
The E-3 visa is a U.S. work visa exclusively for Australian nationals that allows them to work in specialty occupations. This visa is similar to the H-1B visa but is only available to Australian citizens and has unique benefits, including a higher likelihood of approval and fewer restrictions.
A specialty occupation requires specialized knowledge and typically a bachelor’s degree or higher. Examples include fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance.
Who Is Eligible for the E-3 Visa?
To qualify for an E-3 visa, you must:
- Be an Australian citizen
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
- Meet any state licensing requirements if your job requires it
The E-3 visa is also available to spouses and dependent children (under 21) of the visa holder, who can accompany the principal applicant to the U.S. on E-3D visas.
Cost of the E-3 Visa
The cost of applying for the E-3 visa is $315. Note this does not include any attorney or visa issuance fees (varies by consulate).
There is no need to pay additional fees for an E-3 cap or lottery, as this visa is not subject to numerical limitations like the H-1B.
How Long Is the Wait Time for an E-3 Visa?
The E-3 visa processing time can vary. For some applicants it can take as little as 5-7 days, while for others it can take 1-3 months.
Premium processing is available for E-3 visa applicants for a fee of $2,500. This option expedites the processing time to 15 calendar days.
U.S. immigration can be complex and confusing. Boundless is here to help. Learn more.
How to Apply for the E-3 Visa: Step-by-Step
- Secure a Job Offer
Get a written job offer from a U.S. employer in a specialty occupation. - Obtain a Certified Labor Condition Application (LCA)
Your U.S. employer must file an LCA with the DOL and have it certified. This confirms that they will pay you the prevailing wage and meet other employment standards. - Prepare Documentation
Gather your job offer letter, relevant educational qualifications (or proof of equivalent experience), and any required state licensure. - Schedule a Visa Appointment
Complete Form DS-160 (“Nonimmigrant Visa Application”) and schedule an appointment at a U.S. consulate or embassy. - Attend the Visa Interview
Bring your documents, including proof of Australian citizenship, the certified LCA, and your job offer letter. - Receive Your Visa
If approved, you will receive the E-3 visa in your passport, allowing you to enter the U.S. to begin working for your employer.
What Happens Next?
Once you enter the U.S., you can work for the employer that sponsored your E-3 visa. The visa is valid for up to 2 years, but you can renew it indefinitely as long as you continue to meet the qualifications. Spouses of E-3 visa holders can apply for work authorization, allowing them to work in the U.S. without restrictions on their job type.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect or incomplete LCA: Make sure your employer files the LCA accurately to avoid delays.
- Not meeting educational or experience requirements: Double-check that your qualifications match the specialty occupation requirements.
- Failure to maintain legal status: Always renew your visa before it expires and ensure your employment details remain up to date.
E-3 FAQs
Yes, E-3 visa holders can apply for a green card, though the process may be more complex than with other work visas.
Yes, spouses of E-3 visa holders can apply for work authorization through Form I-765. Once approved, they can work for any U.S. employer.
The E-3 visa is valid for 2 years and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as you maintain employment in a qualifying position.
No, unlike the H-1B visa, the E-3 visa is not subject to a cap or lottery, making it easier for Australians to secure employment in the U.S.
Yes, you can change employers, but your new employer must file a new Labor Condition Application (LCA) and you must apply for a new E-3 visa at a U.S. consulate or change your status from within the U.S.
Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. and re-enter as long as your visa is valid. If your E-3 visa expires while you are abroad, you’ll need to apply for a new one before returning to the U.S.
You are granted a 60-day grace period after your employment ends to either find a new job, change your visa status, or leave the U.S.
Yes, your U.S. employer must pay you the prevailing wage for the occupation in the area where you will be working, as specified in the Labor Condition Application (LCA).
Generally, yes. If you have applied to adjust your status while in the U.S. and your application is pending, you may apply for employment authorization by filing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.
Adjustment of status is a process used by certain foreign nationals already in the United States to apply for permanent residence. Consular processing involves applying at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad for an immigrant visa. Learn more here.
Generally, no. If you leave the United States while your application is pending, USCIS will consider that you have abandoned your application and it may be denied. However, there are some exceptions, such as if you have received permission to travel from USCIS or if there is an emergency situation that requires you to travel.