A specialty occupation requires specialized knowledge and typically a bachelor’s degree or equivalent as a minimum entry requirement.

In some cases you can qualify for an E-3 visa without a formal degree if you have enough relevant professional experience.

A common guideline is that 3 years of progressive professional experience may be considered equivalent to 1 year of university study.

This means that a combination of formal education and work experience, or around 12 years of relevant experience, may meet the equivalent of a 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree.

Yes, the E-3 visa involves employer sponsorship.

In most job applications, if you require an E-3 visa, you would typically indicate that you need sponsorship.

Because many employers may not be familiar with the E-3 visa, targeting companies that already understand the process can make your job search more effective.

The E-3 visa application fee is $315 USD when applying at a U.S. consulate.

Additional costs may include legal or preparation support, depending on your situation.

The E-3 visa process typically takes around 4 to 8 weeks.

Timing can vary depending on document preparation, appointment availability, and processing times.

Yes, for certain applications within the United States.

Premium processing is optional and provides a government response within 15 days for an additional fee.

Yes, the E-3 visa can be renewed in 2-year increments.

The E-3 visa process typically involves three main steps:

1. The employer files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the U.S. Department of Labor

2. The candidate completes the DS-160 form, pays the visa fee, and attends a consulate appointment

3. The visa is issued and employment begins

Many employers choose to work with an immigration attorney to ensure the process is handled correctly.

Yes, you must have a job offer before applying for an E-3 visa.

The employer must first submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) before you can proceed.

You should generally apply at a U.S. consulate where you are a resident.

For example:

• If you live in Australia, apply in Australia

• If you are legally living in another country, you may be able to apply there

Policies can vary, so it’s important to check the specific consulate website before booking an appointment.

Many U.S. companies are not familiar with the E-3 visa.

Targeting companies that have previously hired Australians can improve your chances.

You can:

• Join our Talent Network to hear about E-3 visa friendly job opportunities

• Use the E-3 Salary & Company Finder to identify companies that have hired Australians

Here’s a simple way to explain it:

The E-3 visa is a visa available to Australian professionals to work in the United States.

Many employers may not be familiar with the E-3 visa, so keeping the explanation clear and simple can help.

It can also be helpful to explain that the E-3 visa is a treaty-based visa, similar in concept to other visa pathways employers may already be familiar with (e.g. the Canadian and Mexican TN visa)

No, a job offer is required.

Yes, spouses of E-3 visa holders are eligible for work authorization upon entry into the United States.

Only legally married spouses qualify for the E-3 dependent visa.

Yes, spouses and children can study in the United States.

Children must be under 21 years of age and unmarried to qualify as dependents. Different rules may apply once a child turns 21.

If your child is born in the United States, they are generally a U.S. citizen at birth.

Part-time study is permitted.

If you plan to enroll in a full-time course of education, contact your school as the F-1 classification may be more appropriate.

Yes, as long as your primary purpose remains employment.

No, the E-3 visa is a temporary visa and does not provide permanent residency.

Yes, although it may depend on your ability to establish credit in the United States.

If your employment ends, you may have a grace period of up to 60 days (or the remainder of your visa status, whichever is shorter).

During this time, you typically need to:

• Find a new employer to sponsor you

• Apply to change your visa status

• Or leave the United States

Because timelines and options can vary, we recommend speaking with a qualified immigration attorney to understand your situation.

Yes, you can change employers on an E-3 visa.

This is typically done by:

• Applying for a new E-3 visa outside the United States

• Or filing a change of employer within the United States

The right approach depends on your situation, so it’s best to confirm with an immigration professional.

Yes, it is possible to work for more than one employer, but each role must be properly approved.

This usually requires additional filings before you can begin working.

We recommend speaking with an immigration attorney before pursuing this.

You cannot work as an independent contractor.

However, contract roles may be possible if you are employed through payroll and there is a clear employer–employee relationship.

No, freelancing is not permitted on an E-3 visa.

You must have a valid employer -employee relationship.

Yes, part-time roles can qualify for an E-3 visa.

However, you must still be classified as an employee and meet all other requirements.

No, the E-3 visa is only required if you are working inside the United States.

If you are working remotely from another country, you will need to follow that country’s work authorization rules instead.