Orlando EB-3 Visa Lawyer

What is an EB-3 Visa?

The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to obtain lawful permanent residence (a green card) in the United States through employment. Unlike temporary work visas, the EB-3 visa provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers, professionals, and certain unskilled workers.

For individuals who want to build a future in the U.S. and employers who need reliable and qualified workers, the EB-3 visa serves as an important immigration option. Because the process involves multiple steps—including labor certification, employer sponsorship, and government approvals—having an experienced Orlando EB-3 visa attorney by your side can make the process smoother and less stressful.

At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we help individuals and employers in Orlando, FL, navigate the complex EB-3 visa process with confidence.

If you are ready to pursue your EB-3 visa with professional guidance, reach out to our team at (407) 630-8455. 

Eligibility for EB-3 Visa

The EB-3 visa category is divided into three main groups:

1. Skilled Workers

• Must have at least two years of training or work experience
• The position must require skilled labor that is not temporary or seasonal
• Proof of qualifications, such as certifications or training, may be required

2. Professionals

• Must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or foreign equivalent)
• The degree must be directly related to the job offered
• Work experience alone cannot substitute for a degree

3. Other Workers (Unskilled Workers)

• Jobs that require less than two years of training or experience
• The position must be full-time and permanent, not temporary

While eligibility can seem straightforward, there are often detailed requirements, including labor market tests and employer obligations. Our Orlando EB-3 visa lawyer can help ensure that all criteria are met before submitting your application.

How to Get an EB-3 Visa

The EB-3 visa process involves several steps for both the employer and the foreign worker. Each stage must be carefully followed to avoid delays or denials.

Step 1: Labor Certification (PERM)

The employer must first obtain labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor. This process ensures that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position and that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact wages or working conditions of American workers. The employer must then conduct recruitment efforts, including job postings and advertisements.

Step 2: Employer Petition (Form I-140)

After labor certification approval, the employer files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition proves the employer’s intent to hire the worker and ability to pay the offered wage.

Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

If the worker is already in the U.S., they may apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) when a visa number becomes available. If the worker is abroad, they will go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

Step 4: Green Card Approval

Once approved, the EB-3 visa leads to permanent residency, allowing the worker to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. After maintaining permanent residency for the required time, the individual may become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship. Because this process can be lengthy and complex, having Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. guide you every step of the way helps reduce mistakes and increases your chances of success.

Why Hire an Orlando EB-3 Visa Lawyer?

While employers and employees may attempt to handle EB-3 applications on their own, mistakes in paperwork, missed deadlines, or misunderstandings of eligibility can result in costly delays or denials. An experienced immigration lawyer can:

• Evaluate eligibility before starting the process
• Help employers meet labor certification requirements
• Prepare and file petitions accurately and on time
• Communicate with government agencies on your behalf
• Provide guidance for consular interviews or adjustment of status applications

At Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., we work closely with Orlando employers and employees to ensure EB-3 applications are thorough, complete, and positioned for success.

EB-3 Visa FAQs

How long does it take to get an EB-3 visa?

Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin and visa backlogs. On average, it can take one to several years to complete the process.

Can my family come with me on an EB-3 visa?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may also receive green cards as derivative beneficiaries of the primary EB-3 applicant.

What is the difference between EB-2 and EB-3 visas?

The EB-2 visa is for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability, while the EB-3 visa is for skilled workers, professionals, and certain unskilled workers. EB-3 requirements are less strict, but the wait times are often longer.

Do I need a job offer to apply for an EB-3 visa?

Yes, the EB-3 visa requires a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor the worker.

What happens if my EB-3 application is denied?

You may have the option to appeal, reapply, or consider alternative immigration options. An attorney can review your case to determine the best path forward.

Speak With an Orlando EB-3 Visa Attorney Today

Immigrating to the United States through employment is a life-changing opportunity, but the EB-3 process is not simple. Whether you are an employer in Orlando looking to hire international talent or a worker seeking permanent residency, Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. is here to help. Our experienced Orlando EB-3 visa lawyers provide guidance at every stage of the process to help you achieve your immigration goals.

Contact us today to discover how our trusted legal team can help.