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Are you a foreign national seeking to work in the United States and pondering which visa category aligns best with your career aspirations?EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You. The EB2 and EB3 visas stand as two prominent options for individuals who aspire to immigrate to the U.S. based on their skills and qualifications. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the intricacies of these two visa categories, providing a detailed comparison to assist you in making an informed decision that aligns with your unique career trajectory.

EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You
EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You

Understanding EB2 and EB3 Visas

EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You.EB2 and EB3 visas are employment-based immigrant visas for skilled workers. EB2 is for those with advanced degrees or exceptional ability, while EB3 is for those with a bachelor’s degree or two years of experience in a particular occupation.EB2 visas are generally more prestigious and have faster processing times than EB3 visas. The EB3 visa is divided into two categories: the professional category for individuals with a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the skilled worker category for those with at least two years of experience in a specific occupation.

EB2 Visa

The EB2 visa is designed for individuals who possess advanced degrees or exceptional ability in their field. To qualify for the EB2 visa, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Advanced degree: You must hold a master’s degree or higher in a field of study that is closely related to your intended employment.
  • Exceptional ability: You must demonstrate that you possess a level of expertise that significantly exceeds that of ordinary workers in your field. This can be evidenced by awards, publications, letters of recommendation, or original contributions to your field.

EB3 Visa

The EB3 visa is divided into two categories:

  • Professional category: This category is for foreign nationals who have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field of study that is closely related to their intended employment.
  • Skilled worker category: This category is for foreign nationals who have at least two years of experience in a particular occupation and can demonstrate that they meet the prevailing wage requirements for that occupation in the U.S.

Key Differences Between EB2 and EB3 Visas

Qualifications:

EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You. The EB2 visa requires higher qualifications than the EB3 visa. While the EB2 visa requires an advanced degree or exceptional ability, the EB3 visa requires only a bachelor’s degree or two years of experience in a particular occupation.

Priority date:

 The priority date is the date on which your visa petition was filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You, The EB2 visa has a lower priority date than the EB3 visa, which means that EB2 visa applicants generally have a shorter wait time for their visa to become available. This is because the EB2 visa category is considered to be a higher priority than the EB3 visa category.

Processing time

 The processing time for EB2 and EB3 visas can vary depending on various factors, including the volume of applications and the complexity of your case. However, in general, EB2 visas tend to have shorter processing times than EB3 visas. This is due in part to the fact that EB2 visas are considered to be a higher priority than EB3 visas. Additionally, the EB2 visa category has a smaller overall visa quota than the EB3 visa category, which can also contribute to shorter processing times for EB2 visas.

EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You
EB2 vs. EB3 Visa: Which U.S. Visa is Right for You

Choosing the Right Visa

The best visa for you depends on your specific circumstances and career goals. If you have an advanced degree or can demonstrate exceptional ability in your field, the EB2 visa may be the right choice. However, if you have a bachelor’s degree or two years of experience in a particular occupation, the EB3 visa may be a better option. It’s important to consult with an immigration attorney to determine which visa category is best suited for your needs. An attorney can help you assess your eligibility, gather the necessary documentation, and navigate the application process.

FAQs

Which visa category has a shorter wait time?
The EB2 visa generally has a shorter wait time than the EB3 visa.

How long does it typically take to process an EB2 or EB3 visa application?
The processing time can vary depending on various factors, but it generally takes several months to a year.

Can I work in the U.S. while my EB2 or EB3 visa application is pending?
If you are already in the U.S. on a valid visa, you may be able to work while your application is pending. However, if you are outside the U.S., you will need to wait for your visa to be issued before you can enter and work.