Like many other countries, the skilled worker shortage in the United States shows no sign of abating as many companies struggle to hire sufficient staff to be fully operational. The 2022 list of skills shortages shows that a wide range of occupations are suffering with lack of qualified staff, particularly in healthcare, hospitality and construction. The visa system can be tricky to navigate so we explain the difference here between the EB-2 and EB-3 visas for skilled workers and how to start the visa application process.
What Is an EB-2 and an EB-3 Visa?
EB-2 and EB-3 visas programs for skilled workers are somewhat different and it’s important to understand how so you can apply for the correct one.
EB-2 Visa Requirements
The EB-2 visa is for those with an advanced (Master’s or higher) degree, a bachelor’s degree and at least five years’ work experience, or individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts or business. It’s estimated that around 40,000 EB-2 visas are granted each year, and the competition for this type of visa is high [1].
To demonstrate you have exceptional ability in the sciences, arts or business, you will need to meet at least three of the following criteria:
- An academic degree in the field
- 10 years of full-time experience in the field
- License or certificate to practice in the field
- A salary suggestive of exceptional ability
- Membership in a professional association related to the field
- Recognition in the field from experts
- Other comparable evidence of exceptional ability
You will also be required to have a labor certification unless you are applying on the grounds of National Interest Waiver, which states that the certification should be waived because the job is of importance to the country and is in the interest of the U.S.
If you are eligible for the EB-2 visa and it is granted, you will gain permanent residency in the U.S. The application process can take anywhere from one year to several years depending on how many other people from your country of birth are also applying at the same time.
EB-3 Visa Requirements
The EB-3 visa is available for skilled workers, professionals and unskilled workers who meet the following criteria available on the USCIS government website:
Skilled Workers
To qualify for an EB-3 visa as a skilled worker, you must:
- Have at least two years job experience or training, which cannot be of a seasonal or temporary nature;
- Be performing work for which qualified workers are not available in the United States; and
- Have a labor certification and a permanent, full-time job offer.
Professionals
To qualify for an EB-3 visa as a professional, you must:
- Hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or its foreign degree equivalent) related to the occupation;
- Be performing work for which qualified workers are not available in the United States; and
- Have a labor certification and a permanent, full-time job offer.
Unskilled Workers
To qualify for an EB-3 visa as an unskilled worker, you must:
- Be able to perform unskilled labor (requiring less than two years training or experience) that is not of a temporary or seasonal nature, for which qualified workers are not available in the United States; and
- Have a labor certification and a permanent, full-time job offer.
The Application Process for an EB-2 or EB-3 Visa
The first part of the visa application process is to complete the initial application form I-140 and pay the filing fee. For both visas, you will need to supply a range of documentation to back up your application. This could include:
- Your passport (valid for more than 6 months after your intended departure to the U.S.)
- Your U.S. employment offer letter
- The approved labor certification
- The approved petition
- Your DS-261 confirmation page
- Your signed medical and vaccine documents
- Two photographs that meet the U.S. visa photo requirements
- Academic achievements (diplomas and certificates)
- Your CV or resume
- Letters from previous employers
- If applying for a National Interest Waiver, submit proof of why your work is in the national interest of the U.S.
- Court and criminal records
If other supporting documents are requested, you will need to provide these as well.
Jobs Available on EB-2 and EB-3 Visas
At the time of writing (June 2023), the U.S. is suffering from a shortage of skilled tradespersons such as builders, plumbers, electricians, and those working in sustainable energy. In addition, there are many unfilled vacancies for health workers, teachers, and other staff in education. It is possible to get EB-2 or EB-3 visas for any of these professions, but the wait for visas to be granted can be long.
More information can be found on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
Mexican immigration to the U.S.
The Mexican population in the U.S. has increased significantly in the past 40 years. In 1980, there were around 2.1 million Mexicans whereas by 2021, the number had increased by five times to 10.7 million [2]. From 2013 to 2020, Mexicans were overtaken by immigrants from China and India as the largest groups moving to the U.S.[2]. However, since the pandemic, Mexico has again reclaimed the top spot for new immigrants entering the country, as more and more Mexicans are seeking to create a better life for themselves and their families.
Send money to Mexico
Migrant workers are one of the biggest users of cross-border money transfers, also known as family remittances. Finding affordable ways to send money to Mexico provides a vital lifeline for family members who may be stuck in poverty. With the Western Union money transfer app, you can set up an account and make your first payment with minimal fuss. All you need is your contact and identification details, your bank card and your recipient’s banking details. It’s also possible to make reliable transfers using a PC from our website or, if you prefer, you can visit one of our Agent locations to complete your transaction in person.
For help getting set up, check out the FAQs in our Help Center.
