E-3 visa process for Australians: Everything You Need to Know

Are you an Australian and want to work in the US? If your answer is yes, this article is for you. Obtaining an E-3 visa allows you to start your career in the United States. Without any lottery issues with the H-1B visa, you can easily get an E-3 work visa. In this article, you will learn the step-by-step process of obtaining an E-3 work visa in the United States. After receiving the E-3 visa, the United States also covers the costs for the entire family. That will help you succeed in your plan and work with confidence.

What is an E-3 Visa?

For those who wish to settle in the United States, the E-3 visa is a suitable option. In 2005, as part of the Australia-US Free Trade Agreement (AUSFTA), it was established. It permits Australians to work in the United States with at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.

The E-3 visa process is specifically designed for the mobility and economic strength of Australia’s relations. The E-3 is different from other US work visas in that it

• Little competition (only Australians can enter)
• There is no lottery system like there is for H-1B.
• It can be renewed every two years for as long as you want

There are only 10,500 E-3 visas available each year, but this quota is rarely filled; thus, eligible applicants can easily get one.

Who is Eligible for the E-3 Visa?

You must meet specific requirements to be eligible for an E-3 visa:

• Australian Citizenship: This visa is only applicable for Australian applicants. When dual citizens apply for a visa, they must use the Australian passport.
• 2. Specialty Job Offer: You must have a job offer from any business organization in the United States. It also requires both theoretical and practical application from a special expert. Such as Engineers, IT analysts, accountants, marketing strategists, instructors, researchers, and healthcare professionals are some examples.
• 3. Educational Requirements: You must have at least a bachelor’s degree in a discipline that relates to your work. However, sometimes it accepts related work experience and some of your academic skills.
• 4. Proof of Intent to Return: The E-3 visa doesn’t accept dual citizenship, unlike the H-1B visa. Applicants must demonstrate that they intend to return to Australia upon expiration of their permitted stay, even if they are eligible to extend it several times.

To obtain the E-3 visa, you must follow the above rules.

What Are the Key Benefits of the E-3 Visa?

1. Faster Processing and No Lottery

The E-3 visa differs from the H-1B visa, as the employee selection process for the latter depends on a random lottery system. As the annual quota is rare, the application is evaluated based on eligibility and the documents. It accelerated the approval process.

2. Spouse Work Authorization

Your spouse (E-3D dependent) can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Moreover, the US allows them to work in any full-time or part-time job without any restrictions. Its significant advantage is better than other visas.

3. Renewable Indefinitely

The E-3 visa is valid for 2 years. However, you can renew it for more than 2 years if you are working in an occupation and meet the conditions every time.

4. Lower Costs

The fee for an E-3 visa is less than that for an H-1B or another visa. Gaining work experience in the United States is a cost-effective process.

E-3 Visa Application Process Step by Step

Step 1: Get a job offer from a US company

First, you need to have a formal job offer from the US business sector. Ensure that your educational degree aligns with the job title, role, and responsibilities. Applicants must be knowledgeable about the visa application process. It’s essential to understand the Australian process for the E-3 visa.

Step 2: Get a Certified Labor Condition Application (LCA)

The US Department of Labor needs to get an LCA (Form ETA 9035) from your boss. This proves that they will pay you the going rate for your job and area, which is a fair labor standard. The process of getting an LCA approval usually takes seven working days. You can’t set up your visa interview without this approval.

Step 3: Get your application papers ready

Get all your required documentation in order:

• A valid Australian passport (valid for at least six months after your planned stay)
• A certified LCA approval notice
• A job offer letter that includes all the necessary documents about the position, duties, salary, and contact information.
• Certificates of degree and transcript
• Relevant work experience, if needed
• A completed DS-160 form confirmation page
• A receipt for the visa fee
• A recent passport-sized photo (as required by the US consulate)
• A CV or resume

A well-organized and detailed application significantly boosts your chances of getting approved.

Step 4: Schedule an appointment for E-3 visa

• Apply for the DS-160 visa online.
• Pay the online fee $205 (as of 2025)
• The schedule for your interview is generally located in Australia

If you can provide the necessary documentation, you can apply from anywhere. However, if it is your first time applying, it’s better to apply from Australia.

The consular official will look over,

• Your qualifications and paperwork will be reviewed during your interview.
• If your employment is a specialty occupation
• If you want to go back to Australia after your stay

If you have all the proper paperwork and answer questions confidently, your chances of getting an E-3 visa are good.

Step 5: Getting into the US

The stamp of an E-3 visa will be in your passport. After entering the United States, show all of your documents to the customs and border protection team. They will provide your I-94 record. It indicates the duration of your stay in the US (typically up to 2 years).

What Documents Are Require for the E-3 Visa Interview?

Here is a complete list of documents you need for your E-3 visa interview:

• A passport from Australia
• A confirmation paper for the DS-160
• Notice of LCA approval (Form ETA 9035)
• A job offer letter including the job and compensation
• Your academic documents (certificates and transcript)
• Your resume/CV
• Proof of work experience if you need it
• A recent photo that meets US visa requirements
• Any professional certificates relevant to your job

Make your documentation process professional for the consular officers. It makes your application process easier and smoother.

What Are the Costs and Processing Times for an E-3 Visa?

Costs

The cost of applying for an E-3 visa is $205.

• There is no file charge in LCA like an H-1B petition
• Credential evaluation, travel cost, and appointment cost if applicants apply from outside Australia.

Times for processing

• LCA certification takes about seven business days.
• It depends, but it usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks.
• Getting a visa after the interview within 2 to 7 days.

If you can prepare all the necessary documents correctly, obtaining an E-3 visa is easy for you. You will need around 4 to 6 weeks to get your visa.

What Mistakes Should You Avoid in the E-3 Visa Process?

• Scheduling your visa interview before the LCA is approved
• Sending in papers that are missing information or don’t match
• Picking the wrong job classification on the LCA
• Forgetting to show that you want to return to Australia
• Not paying attention to the specific documentation needs of the consulate

These errors could cause your visa to be delayed by weeks or even result in denial. If you’re unsure about something, always review your papers again and consult with your boss or an immigration expert.

Conclusion

The E-3 visa is an excellent option for Australians. It offers fewer restrictions and gives the freedom to seek the perfect job in the US. There is no lottery system for visa selection. Conditions are more flexible, and spouses can join any job. They need to submit their documents properly to get the job. In the US, you must demonstrate your skills and passion. Take that leap today.