Tackling Entry-Level Labor Shortages Through the EB-3 Visa Program has become a critical workforce strategy in 2026.
Across the United States, employers are struggling to fill essential entry-level positions in healthcare, hospitality, construction, food production, and manufacturing.
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are still millions of open jobs in the U.S. with significantly fewer available workers to fill them, highlighting a persistent labor gap across industries.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that job openings remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, especially in hands-on and service occupations.
For employers that depend on stable entry-level staffing, this shortage threatens growth, customer service, and long-term sustainability.
One powerful, legal solution is the EB-3 visa program under U.S. employment-based immigration law.
Updated EB-3 Visa Statistics
The EB-3 visa is part of the third preference employment-based category managed by U.S. Citizenshihttps.
Each fiscal year, approximately 40,040 visas are allocated to the EB-3 category, plus any unused numbers from EB-1 and EB-2 categories.
The U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin shows ongoing demand for EB-3 visas, particularly in the “Other Workers” category, which covers entry-level or unskilled roles requiring less than two years of training.
Because of high demand, some countries face backlogs.
However, many foreign nationals outside of India and China often benefit from more favorable priority dates depending on the monthly Visa Bulletin updates.
The Labor Shortage in Key Entry-Level Industries
Manufacturing remains one of the hardest-hit sectors.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. manufacturing employment remains above pre-pandemic averages, yet job openings continue in production, assembly, and machine operations.
Healthcare is facing even greater pressure.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that healthcare and social assistance consistently rank among industries with the highest number of job openings.
Positions such as nursing assistants, caregivers, hospitality workers, hotel housekeepers, and food processing workers are essential but difficult to staff domestically.
This is where the EB-3 visa green card program becomes a long-term workforce solution.
Understanding the EB-3 “Other Workers” Category
The EB-3 visa includes three subcategories:
Skilled workers
Professionals
Other workers (unskilled workers)
The “Other Workers” category is especially important for entry-level labor shortages.
These jobs require less than two years of training or experience but must be full-time and permanent.
Employers must first obtain PERM labor certification through the U.S. Department of Labor to demonstrate that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
This process protects U.S. workers while allowing employers to legally sponsor foreign nationals when a true labor shortage exists.
Why the EB-3 Program Is a Long-Term Workforce Strategy
Unlike temporary visas such as H-2B, the EB-3 visa provides permanent residency.
This means workers receive a green card and can live and work in the United States permanently.
For employers, this reduces turnover and increases workforce stability.
For workers, it provides security, family immigration benefits, and long-term career opportunities.
High turnover is one of the biggest challenges in entry-level industries.
When businesses invest in training only to lose employees within months, productivity declines and costs increase.
The EB-3 program creates stronger retention because workers are committed to maintaining stable employment during and after the green card process.
How the EB-3 Visa Process Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Employer Identifies a Permanent, Full-Time Position
The U.S. employer must offer a real, permanent job in an entry-level occupation.
Step 2: Prevailing Wage Determination
The employer requests a prevailing wage determination from the Department of Labor to ensure fair pay standards.
Step 3: Recruitment and PERM Labor Certification
The employer conducts required recruitment efforts to test the U.S. labor market.
If no qualified U.S. workers are available, the employer files a PERM labor certification application.
Step 4: File Form I-140 Immigrant Petition
Once PERM is approved, the employer files Form I-140 with USCIS.
Step 5: Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
The applicant monitors the Visa Bulletin to determine when a visa number becomes available.
Step 6: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
If outside the U.S., the worker attends an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. embassy.
If inside the U.S., they may file for adjustment of status when eligible.
Step 7: Receive Green Card
After approval, the worker becomes a lawful permanent resident.
Benefits of the EB-3 Visa for Foreign Workers
The EB-3 program offers permanent residency, not a temporary permit.
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can also immigrate.
Workers can change employers after meeting certain conditions.
Over time, green card holders may qualify for U.S. citizenship.
For many families, this pathway creates long-term financial and educational opportunities.
Why Employers Continue Using EB-3
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce continues to highlight workforce participation challenges, especially as baby boomers retire and labor force growth slows.
Population shifts and declining birth rates contribute to fewer available domestic workers.
The EB-3 visa program helps employers access a global workforce while remaining fully compliant with U.S. labor laws.
Because the process is structured and regulated, it provides predictability in long-term workforce planning.
Challenges to Consider
The EB-3 process is not fast.
PERM certification, I-140 approval, and visa bulletin waiting times can take months or longer depending on demand.
Annual visa caps may cause backlogs.
Employers must strictly follow recruitment and wage requirements.
However, when managed properly, the program provides one of the most stable immigration pathways available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EB-3 visa only for skilled workers?
The EB-3 category includes skilled workers, professionals, and “other workers.” The “other workers” category is specifically designed for entry-level jobs that require less than two years of training, making it ideal for industries experiencing labor shortages.
How long does the EB-3 process take?
Processing times vary depending on PERM approval, USCIS processing, and visa bulletin availability. For applicants outside India and China, waiting times are often shorter, but it is important to review the monthly Visa Bulletin for current timelines.
Can my family immigrate with me under EB-3?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can receive green cards as derivative beneficiaries, allowing your family to live, work, and study in the United States.
Is the EB-3 visa permanent?
The EB-3 visa leads to lawful permanent residence. Once approved, you receive a green card, not a temporary visa, and may later apply for U.S. citizenship if eligible.
Do employers have to prove there are no U.S. workers available?
Employers must complete the PERM labor certification process through the Department of Labor to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact U.S. workers or wages.
What types of jobs qualify under EB-3 other workers?
Common qualifying jobs include caregivers, hotel housekeepers, food processing workers, construction laborers, warehouse staff, and manufacturing production workers, provided the job is full-time and permanent.
Final Thoughts
Tackling Entry-Level Labor Shortages Through the EB-3 Visa Program is more than an immigration strategy.
It is a workforce solution grounded in federal labor protections and permanent employment opportunities.
With ongoing labor shortages confirmed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and BLS data, the EB-3 visa green card pathway continues to play a vital role in supporting U.S. industries while offering foreign workers a stable future in America.
