If you are planning to work in the United States through the EB-3 program, one of the first questions you may ask is about the EB-3 visa cost. Understanding the financial requirements helps you plan your immigration journey and avoid unexpected expenses.
The EB-3 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa that allows foreign workers to obtain permanent residency in the United States. This visa category is often used for jobs that cannot easily be filled by available U.S. workers.
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the United States continues to face a major labor shortage, with millions of open jobs exceeding the number of available workers in several industries including hospitality, healthcare, and food service.
Because of this gap, many U.S. employers sponsor foreign workers through the EB-3 visa program.
This guide explains the EB-3 visa cost, including government filing fees, attorney costs, recruiter services, and additional expenses applicants should expect.
Understanding the EB-3 Visa Category
The EB-3 visa includes three subcategories of workers:
Skilled Workers (jobs requiring at least 2 years of experience)
Professionals (jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree)
Other Workers (jobs requiring less than 2 years of training or experience)
Most applicants using the EB-3 program apply under the Other Worker category, which includes roles such as:
Restaurant staff
Housekeepers
Caregivers
Food processing workers
Hospitality staff
Before hiring a foreign worker, an employer must prove that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job. This is done through a process called PERM Labor Certification managed by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Once the job is certified, the employer can submit the immigrant petition that allows the worker to apply for permanent residency.
You can learn more about the full immigration process here: https://eb3.work/services/
Why EB-3 Workers Are in Demand
Many U.S. industries struggle with high turnover and a shortage of entry-level workers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industries such as hospitality and food service continue to experience some of the highest job openings and quit rates in the country.
This shortage makes programs like EB-3 important because they allow employers to fill essential roles while maintaining business operations.
Main EB-3 Visa Cost Categories
The EB-3 visa cost typically falls into three main categories:
Government filing fees
Immigration attorney fees
Recruiter or placement agency fees
Each category can vary depending on the applicant’s situation and the services provided.
Government Filing Fees (Latest USCIS Fees)
Several official government fees are required during the EB-3 immigration process.
These fees are paid to U.S. government agencies such as USCIS or the U.S. Department of State.
Form I-140 Petition Fee
The employer files Form I-140 to classify the worker under the EB-3 category.
Current USCIS filing fee: $715
Some employers may also pay for premium processing, which currently costs $2,805 for faster review.
Immigrant Visa Application (Consular Processing)
If you apply outside the United States, you will complete your visa processing through a U.S. embassy.
The immigrant visa application fee is $345 per applicant.
USCIS Immigrant Fee (Green Card Production)
After your visa is approved and you enter the United States, you must pay the USCIS immigrant fee.
Current fee: $220
Medical Examination
Applicants must complete a medical exam by an approved physician.
Typical cost range: $200 to $500 depending on the country.
Total Government Fees Estimate
For a single applicant, government-related expenses usually range between:
$800 – $1,500+
This amount increases if family members apply with you.
PERM Labor Certification Costs
The PERM Labor Certification is the first step of the EB-3 process.
U.S. law requires the employer to pay all costs related to the PERM process, including recruitment and filing fees.
Applicants cannot legally pay for PERM expenses themselves.
Immigration Attorney Fees
Most EB-3 cases involve immigration attorneys who help manage the legal steps of the process.
Attorneys usually assist with:
Preparing immigration forms
Coordinating with the employer
Managing documentation
Responding to government requests
Attorney fees typically range from:
$6,000 to $15,000
More complex cases or full-service legal support may cost more.
Always ask for an itemized breakdown of services so you understand exactly what is included.
Recruiter or Agency Fees
Some foreign workers find EB-3 opportunities through recruitment agencies that connect them with U.S. employers.
These agencies may help with:
Job placement
Employer sponsorship coordination
Document preparation
Process guidance
Recruiter fees can range widely, often between:
$5,000 and $20,000+
The total depends on the services provided and the level of support offered.
If you want to see real EB-3 job opportunities, you can explore current openings here:
https://eb3.work/eb-3-jobs-list/
Other Costs to Consider
In addition to the main expenses, applicants should also budget for several smaller costs.
These may include:
Passport renewal
Document translations
Visa interview travel
Embassy appointment travel
Relocation costs after approval
Families should also remember that each dependent pays separate visa and medical fees.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an EB-3 Visa
Step 1: Find a U.S. Employer Sponsor
You must first receive a permanent job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor your EB-3 visa.
You can start by reviewing available positions: https://eb3.work/eb-3-jobs-list/
Step 2: Employer Files PERM Labor Certification
The employer submits the job to the Department of Labor and proves no qualified U.S. workers are available.
This process verifies the labor shortage.
Step 3: Employer Files Form I-140
After PERM approval, the employer submits Form I-140 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
This petition confirms that you qualify for the EB-3 category.
Step 4: Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
Visa availability is determined by the Visa Bulletin issued by the U.S. Department of State.
You must wait until your priority date becomes current.
Step 5: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
If you are outside the U.S., you attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy.
If you are inside the U.S., you may apply for Adjustment of Status.
Step 6: Receive Your Green Card
After entering the United States, you receive your permanent resident card and begin working for your sponsoring employer.
You can read more about the full EB-3 process here: https://eb3.work/knowledge-base/
Tips for Managing EB-3 Visa Cost
Compare service providers carefully
Different agencies charge different prices, so always review the services included before committing.
Avoid unrealistic guarantees
No agency or attorney can guarantee visa approval.
Be cautious if someone promises guaranteed success.
Keep financial records
Save copies of all receipts, contracts, and immigration documents throughout the process.
Work with transparent organizations
Choose companies that clearly explain fees and provide educational resources for applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the EB-3 visa cost in total?
The total EB-3 visa cost can vary widely depending on attorney fees, agency services, and government filing fees. Many applicants spend anywhere from $8,000 to $25,000 throughout the entire process. Government fees alone are usually under $1,500, but legal and placement services can increase the overall cost significantly.
Who pays for the PERM Labor Certification?
U.S. law requires the employer to pay for all costs related to the PERM Labor Certification process. This includes recruitment, advertising, and filing costs. Workers are not legally allowed to pay these expenses because the law protects both U.S. and foreign workers.
Can I bring my family with an EB-3 visa?
EB-3 applicants can include their spouse and unmarried children under age 21. Each family member receives a green card once the application is approved, but they must pay their own visa fees and medical exam costs.
How long does the EB-3 process take?
Processing times vary depending on demand, government processing speeds, and visa availability. In many cases, the full process may take 2 to 4 years, although timelines can change based on the Visa Bulletin.
Can EB-3 visa holders become U.S. citizens?
After receiving a green card through the EB-3 visa, workers can apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements. Most green card holders can apply for naturalization after five years of permanent residency
Are EB-3 jobs legitimate opportunities?
When they are offered by legitimate employers following Department of Labor and USCIS regulations. However, applicants should carefully research agencies and verify that job offers follow official immigration procedures.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the EB-3 visa cost is an important step for anyone planning to work permanently in the United States.
While expenses can vary depending on the services you choose, most applicants should prepare for government fees, legal support, and possible recruiter assistance.
The EB-3 program exists because many U.S. industries continue to struggle with worker shortages, creating opportunities for international applicants who want stable employment and a path to permanent residency.
With proper planning, reliable guidance, and a clear understanding of costs, the EB-3 visa can become a powerful pathway toward building a future in the United States.
