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What is the Employment-based, Third Preference Category?

The third preference category (EB-3) has three different classifications for permanent residence. This includes skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers.

Skilled workers are those who will fill a position that requires a minimum of two years of training or experience. Post-secondary education relevant to the position may be considered as training.

A professional under the third preference classification must possess, at a minimum, a baccalaureate degree or foreign equivalent. The employer must demonstrate that such a degree is the normal requirement for entry into the occupation.

Unskilled workers are those who will fill a position that requires less than two years of training or experience.

Immigrant visas under the third preference employment category must be based on a full-time, job offer for permanent employment. In other words, the position cannot be temporary or seasonal in nature. Like the second preference category, the employer must complete the PERM labor certification process for the EB-3 category. The only exception is if the position falls under Schedule A, which is reserved for registered nurses, physical therapists, and workers of exceptional ability. Those positions are considered “pre-certified.”

Read more about PERM…


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