The EB-3 Visa Other Workers category is one of the most practical paths to permanent residency in the United States for foreign nationals without advanced degrees or specialized training.
This immigrant visa allows U.S. employers to sponsor workers for full-time, permanent jobs that require less than two years of experience or training.
In 2026, labor shortages continue across many essential industries in the U.S., creating real opportunities for foreign workers. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are still millions of open jobs nationwide, with more job openings than unemployed workers in many states.
At the same time, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports persistent openings in sectors such as hospitality, healthcare support, construction, transportation, and agriculture.
For foreign nationals (excluding India and China) who want long-term stability in the United States, the EB-3 Visa Other Workers category can provide a direct path to a green card.
What Is the EB-3 Visa Other Workers Category?
The EB-3 visa is the third preference employment-based immigrant visa under U.S. immigration law.
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the EB-3 category includes skilled workers, professionals, and “other workers.”
The EB-3 Visa Other Workers subcategory is specifically for positions that require less than two years of training or experience.
These roles are often called “unskilled,” but they are critical to the U.S. economy.
Common EB-3 Other Worker Jobs
Typical positions sponsored under the EB-3 Visa Other Workers category include:
Caregivers and home health aides
Hotel housekeepers
Restaurant staff (cooks, food prep workers, dishwashers)
Construction laborers
Agricultural workers
Warehouse associates
Manufacturing line workers
Truck drivers in certain cases
These jobs are essential for daily operations in many U.S. businesses.
Why the U.S. Needs Other Workers
The U.S. continues to face workforce gaps, especially in physically demanding or lower-wage sectors.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce highlights that in many states, there are more job openings than available workers.
The BLS Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) consistently shows high turnover rates in hospitality, retail, and healthcare support roles.
When U.S. employers cannot find qualified and willing U.S. workers, they may sponsor foreign nationals through the PERM labor certification process.
What Is PERM Labor Certification?
Before sponsoring a worker under the EB-3 Visa Other Workers category, the employer must complete the PERM labor certification process through the U.S. Department of Labor.
This process confirms that:
No qualified U.S. workers are available for the position
Hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect wages or working conditions
Only after PERM approval can the employer file Form I-140 with USCIS.
You can learn more about the full employment-based immigration process here:
https://eb3.work/services/
Eligibility Requirements for EB-3 Visa Other Workers
To qualify under the EB-3 Visa Other Workers category, you must meet several conditions.
- Permanent, Full-Time Job Offer
You must have a permanent (not seasonal), full-time job offer from a U.S. employer. - Less Than Two Years of Experience Required
The job must require less than two years of training or experience. - Approved PERM Certification
Your employer must obtain PERM labor certification approval. - Employer Files Form I-140
The employer must submit Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, to USCIS. - Visa Availability
Your priority date must be current according to the U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin.
For applicants outside India and China, visa waiting times are often shorter, depending on the monthly Visa Bulletin updates.
How To Apply for the EB-3 Visa Other Workers Category (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Find a legitimate U.S. employer willing to sponsor you for a permanent, full-time position.
You can explore current opportunities here: https://eb3.work/eb-3-jobs-list/
Step 2: Employer Files PERM Labor Certification
Your employer begins recruitment efforts in the U.S. and files PERM through the Department of Labor once requirements are met.
Step 3: Employer Files Form I-140
After PERM approval, the employer files Form I-140 with USCIS to classify you under the EB-3 category.
Step 4: Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
Your place in line is determined by your priority date. Monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin.
Step 5: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
If you are outside the U.S., you will attend an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
If you are legally inside the U.S., you may file for Adjustment of Status.
Step 6: Receive Your Green Card
Once approved, you become a lawful permanent resident. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may also receive green cards.
Benefits of the EB-3 Visa Other Workers Category
Permanent Residency
This visa leads directly to a green card.
Family Sponsorship
Your spouse and children under 21 can immigrate with you.
Work Authorization
You are legally authorized to work in the United States.
Path to Citizenship
After five years as a green card holder, you may apply for U.S. citizenship if you meet eligibility requirements.
Challenges to Consider
Annual Visa Caps
The EB-3 category has annual limits, including a separate allocation for “other workers.”
Processing Time
PERM processing, I-140 review, and visa availability can take time.
Financial Planning
While the employer pays PERM and I-140 costs, applicants are responsible for medical exams, visa fees, and relocation expenses.
You can explore detailed explanations of each stage inside the EB3.Work Knowledge Base: https://eb3.work/knowledge-base/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the EB-3 Visa Other Workers process take?
Processing time depends on PERM approval, USCIS processing times, and visa availability under the Visa Bulletin. For applicants outside India and China, the timeline can range from about 18 months to several years depending on demand and government backlogs.
Do I need work experience to qualify as an Other Worker?
The job must require less than two years of training or experience. Some employers may prefer prior experience, but legally the position cannot require more than two years of preparation.
Can I change employers after receiving my green card?
The EB-3 Visa Other Workers category requires you to intend to work permanently for the sponsoring employer. After receiving your green card and working for a reasonable period, job flexibility may increase, but you should always act in good faith.
Can my spouse work in the United States?
Once your spouse receives lawful permanent resident status, they have the right to work in the U.S. without needing a separate work visa.
Is the EB-3 Other Workers visa better than temporary work visas?
Unlike temporary visas, the EB-3 Visa Other Workers category leads directly to permanent residency. This makes it attractive for individuals seeking long-term stability rather than short-term employment.
Final Thoughts
The EB-3 Visa Other Workers category remains one of the most realistic paths to a U.S. green card for foreign nationals without advanced degrees.
With ongoing labor shortages confirmed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for reliable entry-level workers continues across many industries.
If you are ready to build a stable future in the United States, understanding the process, preparing financially, and working with a legitimate sponsoring employer are your first important steps.
