E-3 Visa
If you are an Australian national, the E-3 is an excellent visa category.
That is because the E-3 visa is a country specific visa available only to Australian citizens to work and live in the US. Work permission may be given for 24 months and may be extended. This is a great option for professional workers and also allows spouses and children to accompany them to the US.
Primary Eligibility Requirements:
Four main factors determine eligibility for this visa:
The applicant must be an Australian national
The position offered must require a bachelor's degree or higher in a specified field or fields
The applicant must have the specified bachelor's degree OR have the equivalent of a bachelor's degree via work experience/education
The employer must agree to pay the prevailing wage
Advantages of the E-3 Visa include:
The applicant may apply for the E-3 directly at the US consulate instead of first gaining approval from the US Department of Homeland Security.
Employment start date at any time of year (because the yearly quota has never been met).
Minimal government filing fees
Applicants may ask for two years of work authorization and may renew in two-year increments.
Spouses may apply for work authorization in the United States
Green Card Procedures for E-3 Visa Holders:
We know how valuable well trained, professional employees are to the success of your business. When your E-3 employee is someone you’d like to retain long term, we can assist you in obtaining their green card, which can lead to employee loyalty and business growth. Dependent upon the facts, this may include switching your employee to a different visa category however it is also possible to apply while the person is still in E-3 status. We are ready to explore this option with you!