The American economy is currently experiencing a major labor shortage, especially in essential roles that locals are either unwilling or unavailable to fill. This shortage spans across various sectors – healthcare, agriculture, construction, hospitality and manufacturing. This is where the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers comes into play. It allows U.S. employers to legally sponsor foreign workers who can fill these critical gaps. For workers abroad, especially those in low-income economies, this is more than just a job – it’s a pathway to the American dream. The demand for both unskilled and skilled workers has surged in recent years, making this visa category more relevant than ever in 2025.
What sets the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers apart from other employment-based visas is its accessibility. While other visa programs like the H-1B are locked behind strict academic and experience gates, the EB-3 visa throws that door wide open. It acknowledges the value of labor – both skilled and unskilled – and offers a permanent solution to workforce shortages.
If you’ve ever held down a job in a restaurant, cared for an elderly person, worked in construction or learned a trade through hands-on experience, then you may already qualify. It’s one of the few immigration pathways that reward practical skills over paper qualifications.
Many people don’t realize just how powerful the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers route can be until they hear real success stories. From caregivers in Nigeria relocating to senior care homes in Texas, to welders from India joining manufacturing plants in Ohio, thousands of people are changing their lives through this opportunity. And it’s not just about income. The EB-3 visa grants you a green card – your first step toward permanent residency and eventually, U.S. citizenship.
That means you can work, travel, access healthcare, enroll your kids in school and even sponsor your family in the future. It’s a life-changing opportunity that many overlook.
But make no mistake – the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers isn’t a walk in the park. The process takes time, patience and careful navigation through job offers, government certifications and paperwork. There are scammers out there and delays are common.
Yet, for those who stay the course, the payoff is huge. In this guide, we’ll unpack everything you need to know – from how to apply, eligibility criteria and job types, to real-world advice that can help you avoid common pitfalls. If you’re ready to take a bold step toward working and living in the United States, this guide is built just for you.
Types of Jobs Available Under EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Here’s where it gets exciting. The list is surprisingly broad:
Unskilled Workers (Other Workers)
These jobs require less than two years of experience. Examples include:
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Cleaners and janitors
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Caregivers and nursing aides
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Restaurant workers (kitchen assistants, dishwashers, bussers)
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Farm laborers
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Hotel housekeeping staff
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Factory workers
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Warehouse packers
Skilled Workers
For those with a bit more experience or training, opportunities include:
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Electricians
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Plumbers
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Carpenters
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CNC machine operators
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Welders
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Auto mechanics
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Healthcare technicians
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Chefs and bakers
These jobs fall under the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers umbrella and come with sponsorship by U.S. employers willing to take on international hires.
EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Blessing from Nigeria worked as a caregiver in Lagos. Through the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers program, she got hired by a senior living facility in Texas. Today, she earns over $32,000 a year, has medical benefits and is on her way to full U.S. permanent residency.
Ajay from India, a skilled welder, joined a fabrication plant in Ohio under the same visa category. In just 2 years, he became a team lead, brought his family over and even bought a car – something he never imagined at home.
These are not fairy tales. The EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers is quietly powering thousands of such stories.
Eligibility Criteria for EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
You don’t need to be a genius. But you do need to meet these core requirements:
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A full-time permanent job offer from a U.S. employer
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Employer must get a Labor Certification (PERM) showing no qualified U.S. workers are available
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For skilled roles, proof of relevant training or experience
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For unskilled roles, ability to perform the job
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No criminal history or immigration violations
Whether you’re aiming for a skilled or unskilled job, the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers requires a commitment to show up, work hard and integrate.
Application Process for EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Step 1: Get a Job Offer
You must first secure a permanent job offer from a U.S. company willing to sponsor you.
Step 2: PERM Labor Certification
The employer must prove they advertised the job in the U.S. but couldn’t find qualified American workers. This process can take months.
Step 3: File Form I-140
The employer files an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140) with USCIS. This is the official step of applying for your green card.
Step 4: Visa Processing or Adjustment of Status
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If you’re outside the U.S., you go through consular processing.
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If you’re inside the U.S. legally, you can adjust your status.
Your green card arrives once the visa is approved, granting you lawful permanent residence through the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers pathway.
Processing Time for EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
This varies depending on your country of origin and job category.
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PERM Labor Certification: 6–12 months
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I-140 Petition: 6–9 months (faster with premium processing)
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Visa Interview & Approval: 4–8 months
Total: 1.5 to 2 years on average.
Pro tip: Countries like India, China and the Philippines have longer backlogs. If you’re from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana or Latin America, your wait time may be shorter.
Costs Associated With EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Costs are typically covered by the employer, but here’s a breakdown:
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PERM filing and recruitment: $3,000–$5,000
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I-140 Petition: $700
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Visa Processing Fee: ~$345
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Medical exams, translations, etc.: $300–$600
Total: Roughly $5,000 to $10,000 – but many employers absorb this.
Benefits of EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
The advantages go beyond just a job:
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Green card for you and eligible family members
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Pathway to U.S. citizenship after 5 years
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Work legally in any U.S. state
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Access to education, healthcare and travel freedom
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Opportunity to bring dependents (spouse and kids under 21)
The EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers category is not just a work visa – it’s your entry into a better life.
EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers vs. H-2B or H-1B Visas
Let’s make it clear:
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H-2B Visa: Temporary, seasonal jobs. No green card.
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H-1B Visa: For professionals with degrees. Competitive and lottery-based.
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EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers: Permanent jobs. Path to green card and citizenship.
If you’re not a college graduate or high-tech expert, the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers is by far your best bet.
Best Countries to Apply From in 2025 for EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Demand is skyrocketing in:
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Nigeria
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Ghana
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Mexico
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Jamaica
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Vietnam
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India (for skilled jobs)
These countries have a strong workforce that aligns with U.S. labor demands under the EB-3 Visa USA: unskilled and skilled workers track.
Top U.S. Companies Sponsoring EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Legit employers that often sponsor include:
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Marriott Hotels – Housekeeping, kitchen helpers
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Tyson Foods – Factory workers
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Hilton Worldwide – Janitors, service staff
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Healthcare facilities – Nursing aides
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Agricultural companies in California, Texas – Farm workers
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Walmart warehouse affiliates – Packers, loaders
These organizations understand the process and are frequent EB-3 sponsors.
Pro Tips for Getting an EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers Sponsorship
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Use recruitment agencies that partner with U.S. employers (verify their legitimacy)
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Highlight loyalty and long-term commitment in interviews
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Get work experience certifications – even for informal jobs
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Learn basic English if you’re an unskilled worker – it gives you an edge
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Have patience – the process takes time, but it works
Frequently Asked Questions About EB-3 Visa USA: Unskilled and Skilled Workers
Can I apply without a job offer?
No. A job offer from a U.S. employer is required to begin the process.
Do I need to speak fluent English?
Not mandatory for unskilled jobs, but it helps tremendously.
Can my family join me?
Yes. Your spouse and children under 21 are eligible for green cards too.
Can I change jobs after arriving in the U.S.?
Generally, yes – after some time. But it’s best to stick with the sponsoring employer for at least 6–12 months.
What if I lose my job?
You’ll need to find another sponsor or risk losing your green card eligibility.