How to Apply for an EB-3 Visa
For many in Pakistan, the EB-3 visa is the most practical gateway to American permanent residency. Unlike other high-level visas, this category is designed for everyday professionals and workers, offering a direct path to a Green Card through a confirmed U.S. job offer.
At U.S. Immigration Consultants LTD., we focus on helping you navigate this multi-year journey with honesty. Our goal is to ensure your paperwork is flawless while keeping you informed about the latest policy shifts at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and Karachi.
What is the EB-3 Visa?
The “Third Preference” (EB-3) is an employment-based immigrant visa. The key distinction here is that it is not a temporary work permit; once approved, you enter the United States as a Lawful Permanent Resident.
Why Pakistani Applicants Choose EB-3:
- No "Golden Passport" Cost: You don't need to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- No Standardized Language Barriers: Legal requirements do not mandate IELTS or TOEFL scores (though your employer will need you to be functional in English).
- Open to All Ages: There is no "cut-off" age for applicants, provided you are fit to work.
The Three EB-3 Pathways
The program is split into three buckets based on your background:
- Skilled Workers: For trades or roles requiring at least 2 years of specific training or experience.
- Professionals: For those holding at least a U.S. Bachelor’s degree (or the HEC-verified equivalent in Pakistan) that directly relates to the job.
- Other Workers (Unskilled): For essential labor requiring less than 2 years of training, such as logistics, hospitality, or home care.
The 6-Step Roadmap to Residency
1. Finding a Real Sponsor
Everything hinges on a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. company.
Critical Advice: Avoid “agents” who promise a job for a fee. Real EB-3 sponsorship involves a U.S. company paying for your labor certification because they genuinely need your skills.
2. The Labor Market Test (PERM)
Your employer must prove to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that no qualified Americans were available for the role.
- 2026 Update: Due to a massive backlog, the DOL currently takes roughly 16 to 20 months to certify these applications.
3. The USCIS Petition (Form I-140)
Once the DOL gives the green light, the employer files a petition to prove they have the funds to pay you and that you meet the job’s criteria. You can pay an extra fee for Premium Processing here to get a response in just 15 days.
4. The Waiting Room (Priority Dates)
Because there are yearly caps on visas, you must wait for your “Priority Date” to be called.
- Current Status (Jan 2026): For Pakistanis in the Professional/Skilled group, the wait is about 2.5 years. Unskilled workers typically wait longer.
5. Consular Processing & The "2026 Freeze"
Once your date is current, you’ll be invited for an interview in Islamabad or Karachi.
- Important Policy Alert: As of January 21, 2026, the U.S. State Department has placed a temporary pause on issuing immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Pakistan.
- What this means for you: You can still file your initial applications and even attend interviews, but the physical visa will not be issued until the U.S. completes its current administrative review of vetting protocols.
6. Relocating to the U.S.
Once the pause is lifted and your visa is stamped, you have six months to move. Your Green Card will be sent to your new U.S. home shortly after you land.
Bringing Your Family
Your spouse and any unmarried children under 21 are included in your petition. They receive the same permanent residency status, allowing your spouse to work anywhere and your children to access the American education system.
Conclusion: Why Patience and Ethics Matter
The EB-3 process from Pakistan is a marathon, not a sprint. While the January 2026 administrative pause adds a layer of uncertainty, the underlying law remains the same: a legitimate job offer is your ticket to a new life.
At U.S. Immigration Consultants LTD., we don’t offer shortcuts or “guarantees”—we offer compliance. We ensure that every document, from your Pakistani work letters to your employer’s financial statements, meets the highest U.S. standards to give you the best chance of success once processing fully resumes.
Disclaimer:
Some content on this website may be created or assisted using AI technology and is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, financial, or immigration advice. Please consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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