Many people who want to move to the United States under the EB3 visa category struggle to find honest help. Some recruiters make big promises but explain very little about how the process really works. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), total nonfarm payroll employment increased modestly by 22,000 in August and has shown minimal change since April.
The unemployment rate remained largely unchanged at 4.3 percent. The Department of Labor reported that in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, U.S. employers submitted over 151,000 Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) labor certification applications alone. Lack of clarity often leads to confusion and disappointment for many applicants.
The EB3 visa is a legitimate path to permanent residency in the United States. It allows foreign workers to obtain green cards through employment sponsorship. The normal PERM cases take up to 12 months to process which is before we even get to Form I-140 or consular steps.
Transparency matters because the EB3 journey is long and complicated. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), employment-based preference visas are capped at 140,000 per fiscal year. Applicants interact with recruiters, employers and lawyers throughout the process, and choosing a transparent company ensures that every step is clearly explained from the start.
One company that many applicants trust for its openness is EB3.Work, which is known for clear communication and reliable guidance throughout the process.
Understanding Why Transparency Matters
The EB3 visa process includes several major stages. These stages are handled by different U.S. government agencies and require coordination between the applicant, the employer and the immigration attorney. Each step has its own purpose and timeline.
The first step is the PERM Labor Certification managed by the U.S. Department of Labor. This stage ensures that the employer is offering a genuine job and that hiring a foreign worker will not harm the local job market. In the first quarter of FY 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor received 34,186 new PERM applications representing a 17.6 percent decline compared to the same period in fiscal year 2024.
The next step is the Form I-140 Petition, which is filed with the USCIS. Applicants complete Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status depending on where they are living after the petition filing. If they are outside the United States, they will apply through a U.S. embassy. If they are already inside the country, they can adjust their status through USCIS.
Because so many steps are involved, applicants often communicate with recruiters, employers and immigration lawyers at the same time. This can create confusion if the company handling their case is not open and clear. Transparent EB3 visa companies help applicants understand what is happening, avoid misinformation, and prevent costly mistakes.
For more details on the official process, applicants can review the U.S. government page on employment-based immigration here: USCIS EB3 Overview.
Common Red Flags of Non-Transparent EB3 Visa Companies
Some companies try to attract applicants by promising guaranteed approval or fast-track results. In FY 2023, USCIS published that nearly 194,000 employment-based immigrant visas were issued. No one can guarantee approval because the EB3 process depends on government decisions and can take around 48 months. Any company that claims to make it happen faster should be avoided.
Another red flag is when a company avoids questions about fees or refuses to explain its refund policies. Honest companies clearly describe what each payment covers before you sign anything. Lack of transparency about money is a major sign of risk.
Some companies do not provide written documents about what their service includes. Others may fail to introduce the immigration attorney working on your case. A transparent company will always identify the licensed lawyer handling the immigration paperwork.
Applicants should also be cautious of recruiters who pressure them to sign quickly. Ethical companies give applicants time to review documents and think before agreeing. If someone pushes for fast decisions, it is a sign that they may be hiding important information.
Lack of clarity about job details or employer names is another warning sign. A legitimate EB3 visa company will always identify real U.S. employers that have approved labor certifications. Applicants can verify job sponsorships through the Department of Labor and confirm that the employer is part of the official PERM system.
What Transparency Looks Like in a Legitimate EB3 Visa Company
A transparent EB3 visa company clearly explains every step of the process before asking for any signature. All costs, timelines and responsibilities are disclosed upfront. According to USCIS and the Department of State, the employment-based preference visa limit for FY 2024 was 160,791. This prevents confusion later and builds trust between the applicant and the company.
Legitimate companies provide access to verified U.S. employers and licensed immigration attorneys. They do not hide who is managing your case or where your job offer comes from. You can ask questions anytime and expect direct answers.
Communication stays consistent throughout the four-year process. Applicants receive updates about their status and educational materials that explain what to expect next. Transparent companies encourage applicants to ask questions and even compare options with other agencies.
Many trustworthy EB3 companies also publish educational resources to help people understand the process better. For example, EB3.Work maintains a public Knowledge Base filled with guides and explanations about EB3 steps and job sponsorships. You can visit it here: EB3.Work Knowledge Base.
How to Verify if an EB3 Company Is Transparent
1. Check for real employer connections.
Begin by confirming that the company works with verified U.S. employers. Transparent companies clearly identify the available job positions, industries and states where those jobs are located. If a company refuses to share these details, that is a major warning sign.
2. Review the fee breakdown.
Ask for a written list of all fees before agreeing to anything. A transparent company explains exactly how much you will pay and what costs are covered by the employer. Clear and honest information about money is one of the strongest signs that the company is legitimate.
3. Verify attorney involvement.
Make sure a licensed immigration attorney is part of the process. A genuine EB3 company will introduce you to the attorney handling your case and provide their full name and state bar number. You can confirm the attorney’s credentials through the official bar association website.
4. Read real applicant testimonials.
Look for reviews that mention honesty, clear communication and consistent updates. Real testimonials often include specific experiences and balanced feedback. Avoid companies that only show overly positive or generic reviews as those can be misleading.
5. Double-check information with official government databases.
Use the U.S. Department of Labor FLAG System to confirm employer labor certifications. You can also review the Department of State Visa Bulletin to track EB3 visa timelines and country-specific updates. Cross-checking data ensures that the company’s claims are accurate.
6. Confirm the processing timeline.
The EB3 visa process typically takes about three to four years. Any company that promises approval or completion in less time is not being truthful. Trust only those that clearly explain realistic timelines based on official government processing schedules.
EB3.Work: An Example of Transparency in Practice
EB3.Work is one example of how transparency can guide applicants through a complex process. The company explains from the start that the EB3 visa takes around 48 months to complete. This honesty helps applicants plan their expectations from day one.
EB3.Work provides monthly updates and publishes educational materials to keep applicants informed. These resources help people understand what each stage means and how long it might take. The company also encourages applicants to ask questions and learn about every step.
Applicants can view real EB3 job listings on their website. This open access allows individuals to confirm that the job offers are genuine and supported by employers who participate in the program. You can see listings here: EB3.Work Job List.
Immigration attorneys are fully integrated into the EB3.Work process. The company maintains communication between applicants, employers, and legal professionals. This structure ensures that no one is left in the dark.
The benefit of this transparency is peace of mind. Applicants feel confident about their long-term investment in the process and know what to expect at each milestone. This example shows that clear communication builds trust and supports a smoother visa journey.
How To Protect Yourself When Choosing an EB3 Visa Company
1. Ask direct questions and request written answers.
Start by asking clear questions about total costs, sponsorship details and refund policies. A transparent company will provide all answers in writing and explain what each fee covers. If they avoid giving written documentation, it is best to move on and find a company that values honesty.
2. Verify the immigration attorney’s credentials.
Always ask for the full name and state bar number of the immigration attorney assigned to your case. You can confirm this information through the official bar association website of the attorney’s state. A legitimate company will never hide who your attorney is or delay introducing them.
3. Be cautious of companies that pressure you to decide quickly.
Ethical EB3 visa companies give you enough time to think, review documents and seek advice before signing anything. If a recruiter pushes you to make an immediate decision, it shows a lack of transparency. Taking time to review your options helps protect you from costly mistakes.
4. Compare multiple EB3 companies before committing.
Look at how different companies explain their fees, timelines and communication process. The most transparent ones will have clear answers and consistent updates. Comparing options helps you recognize which company truly prioritizes honesty and applicant understanding.
5. Confirm all information using official government sources.
Always double-check details with verified U.S. government websites such as USCIS and the Department of Labor. These agencies publish accurate and up-to-date information about the EB3 visa program. Using official data ensures you rely on facts rather than promises from recruiters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an EB3 company transparent?
A transparent EB3 company explains each step of the process clearly and openly. It provides written information about timelines, costs, and employer details before asking you to sign anything. You should always know what stage your application is in, who is handling your documents and what comes next in the process.
Transparency also means giving you access to verified information. A good company introduces you to your immigration attorney early and allows you to ask as many questions as you need. You should never feel rushed, confused or pressured when dealing with a transparent EB3 agency.How long does the EB3 visa process take?
The EB3 visa process usually takes around four years to complete. It begins with the PERM Labor Certification which alone can take six months or longer depending on the Department of Labor’s workload. After that, the Form I 140 petition and consular processing or adjustment of status also add more time.
Each stage depends on U.S. government processing speeds, which can change throughout the year. The Department of State publishes monthly visa bulletins that show which countries are currently eligible for EB3 green cards. Transparent companies share these updates with applicants and never promise faster results than what the government allows.
As of September 30, 2023, USCIS and EOIR approved over 147,000 employment-based adjustment of status applications for people already in the U.S. (not counting consular issuances).Can I apply for an EB3 visa without using a company?
It is technically possible but very difficult. The EB3 visa category requires a job offer from a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor your green card. Most applicants work with EB3 companies that already have relationships with verified employers who are prepared to file labor certifications.
Applying on your own means you would have to find an employer willing to go through the entire sponsorship process independently. That is rare because many employers prefer to work with agencies that manage recruitment, paperwork and legal communication. Using a transparent company helps ensure that the process stays organized and follows all legal steps.How can I verify if a recruiter is legitimate?
Start by checking if the recruiter has a real business address and a working phone number. A legitimate company has an established website that lists staff names, contact details and clear information about its services. You can also look up the company name on business registration databases in the United States.
Verify that a licensed immigration attorney is involved. Ask for the attorney’s full name and state bar number so you can confirm it through the bar association. Legitimate recruiters are transparent about their legal partners and never hide who is handling the case.
It also helps to read independent reviews on Google or social media. Look for testimonials that mention honesty, clarity and steady communication. If all reviews sound too perfect or identical, that may be a sign they are not real.What should I do if a company promises fast results?
Be very cautious if a recruiter claims they can complete your EB3 process in one or two years. No company can speed up government processing times for labor certification, visa petitions or interviews. The EB3 system follows a strict timeline controlled only by the Department of Labor and USCIS.
Ask the company to show official processing data to back up their claim. You can find accurate estimates on the USCIS Case Processing Times page and in the Visa Bulletin. If their promises do not match these sources, it means they are being dishonest.
Transparency means giving realistic expectations even when the truth is that the process takes several years. Companies that focus on honesty rather than speed are far more trustworthy.How do I know if my EB3 employer is real?
You can check your employer’s legitimacy through the U.S. Department of Labor FLAG System. This website lists all labor certifications filed and approved under the PERM program. If your employer’s name appears there, it means they have gone through the official process.
You can also look up the company on state business registration websites to confirm it is legally operating in the United States. A real employer has a physical location, a phone number and an active business license. If a recruiter refuses to identify the employer or says it is confidential, that is not a good sign.
Transparent EB3 companies will always name the employer, describe the type of job offered and share proof of labor certification approval. These details help you confirm that the job is real and properly authorized for sponsorship.What are normal fees for an EB3 visa process?
Fees can vary depending on the company and the employer. Some U.S. employers pay for most of the expenses, including filing fees and attorney costs, while others require the applicant to pay part of them. A trustworthy EB3 company will explain exactly who pays what before you sign any contract.
Typical fees include costs for document preparation, legal services, and sometimes translation or courier services. The key is that all fees should be explained in writing and supported by official receipts. There should also be clear policies for refunds or cancellations if your case does not move forward.
Never agree to pay large sums upfront without understanding where the money goes. Transparency about money is one of the most important ways to identify a legitimate EB3 company.Can I change employers during the EB3 process?
Changing employers is possible but complicated. The EB3 process is tied to the specific employer who sponsored your labor certification and petition. If you change jobs before your green card is issued, you may have to start the process over.
A transparent company will explain the consequences before you make any decision. They can also help you consult with your attorney to see if a change is allowed under your current status. Always seek legal advice before switching employers so you do not risk losing your place in line.Is it safe to send money to a recruiter before meeting an attorney?
No, it is not safe to make any payments before meeting or verifying the immigration attorney. A trustworthy company will introduce you to the lawyer early and explain exactly what part of the process they will handle. You should have time to confirm the attorney’s credentials before sending any money.
Scam recruiters often ask for large payments upfront without offering legal verification. They might also claim that they will “assign an attorney later,” which is never a good sign. Payments should always be made to official business accounts, not personal ones.
Transparency means clear financial communication from the start. You should always know who is receiving your payment and for what service.Can I work in the United States while waiting for my EB3 visa?
If you are outside the United States, you must wait until your EB3 visa is approved before working. Entering the country and working without authorization can lead to visa denial and long-term immigration problems. Always wait for the official immigrant visa or work permit before accepting employment.
If you are already in the United States under another legal status, such as a student or temporary worker, you can only work within the limits of that visa. You must maintain your current legal status until your EB3 adjustment of status is approved. Your attorney can help you plan this transition carefully.
For employment-based green cards, average employer-sponsored processing delays have reached about 3.4 years (1,256 days) as of mid-2025 as reported by The Economic Times. Working before authorization is one of the most common mistakes made by applicants. A transparent company will always warn you about this risk and guide you on the legal way to handle employment while waiting.What happens if my EB3 petition is denied?
If your petition is denied, your immigration attorney will receive a written notice explaining the reasons. Common issues include missing documents, errors in the employer’s application or eligibility problems. A transparent company will discuss the denial honestly and outline your next steps.
In many cases, your attorney can file an appeal or reapply with corrected information. You may also be able to restart the process with a different employer if necessary. The key is to work with professionals who explain all your options instead of avoiding difficult conversations.
Transparency means facing problems directly and offering solutions. Companies that care about your success will keep you informed even when setbacks occur.Can I include my family in my EB3 visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old. They are eligible to apply as dependents of the primary applicant. When your green card is approved, your family members can also receive their green cards.
A transparent EB3 company will explain how your family’s applications connect to your main petition. They will help you prepare the required documents for each dependent and guide you through the consular interview or adjustment process. Each family member must also meet medical and background requirements before approval.
It is important to plan for family inclusion early since it may affect your timeline and costs. Honest companies make this part of the discussion from the beginning rather than adding surprise fees later.Where can I find official EB3 information?
The most reliable sources for EB3 visa information are official U.S. government websites. You can visit USCIS for visa forms, eligibility details, and case updates. The Department of Labor provides data about PERM labor certifications and employer filings.
The Department of State Visa Bulletin shows the current visa availability and waiting periods for each country. These resources are public and updated regularly. Always cross-check information from recruiters with these official pages to ensure accuracy.
Transparent EB3 companies rely on these same sources when guiding their applicants. They never hide or change the facts found on government websites.
Wrap-Up
Transparency is the foundation of a trustworthy EB3 visa company. Applicants should expect clear explanations about costs, employer details and timelines before signing anything. The more open a company is, the more confidence you can have in its process.
A legitimate EB3 company connects applicants with licensed attorneys and verified employers. These professionals make sure that every stage follows U.S. immigration laws. When companies share full information, applicants can make informed decisions without fear of being misled.
The EB3 process requires patience since it takes around four years to complete. Choosing a company that communicates honestly helps make this long journey easier and less stressful. Trust grows when companies keep applicants informed and treat transparency as a standard, not an option.
