EB-2 / EB-3 Green Card — US Immigration Attorneys

EB-2 and EB-3 are second and third preference employment-based green cards. EB-2 covers advanced degree professionals and workers of exceptional ability; EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) allows self-petition without PERM. EB-3 covers professionals, skilled workers, and unskilled workers. Most cases require PERM labor certification.

EB-2/3

Visa code

Permanent Residence

Duration

$700

Gov fees from

USCIS

Filed with

Visa details

Visa typeEB-2 / EB-3 Green Card

CodeEB-2/3

DurationPermanent Residence

Est. gov fees$700 – $2,200 (gov) + attorney

Filed withUSCIS / DOS

Key eligibility

EB-2: Advanced degree (master's or higher, or bachelor's + 5 years progressive experience)

EB-2 NIW: Work of national importance to the US (no employer sponsor required)

EB-3 Skilled: 2+ years of training or experience in a skilled occupation

EB-3 Professional: Bachelor's degree that meets the job requirements

PERM labor certification from DOL (unless NIW or Schedule A)

Employer files Form I-140 after PERM is certified

Why use an attorney for EB-2/3?

PERM labor certification is a precise process — any error in the recruitment steps, job description, or prevailing wage documentation can result in PERM denial or audit. An immigration attorney guides the employer through the entire PERM process and files a strong I-140 petition.

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Frequently asked questions

What is PERM labor certification?+

PERM is the process by which an employer demonstrates to the Department of Labor that no available, qualified US worker applied for the position at the prevailing wage. The employer must conduct specific recruitment steps before applying.

What is the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)?+

The EB-2 NIW allows individuals whose work is in the national interest of the US to self-petition for a green card without an employer sponsor or PERM labor certification. It is popular with researchers, scientists, and physicians.

How long do I have to wait in the EB-2/EB-3 queue?+

Wait times vary significantly by nationality. For citizens of India and China, the EB-2 and EB-3 queues can be decades long due to per-country caps. For most other nationalities, waiting times are 1–5 years.

Can I change jobs while waiting for my EB-2/EB-3 green card?+

You may be able to port to a new job under AC21 if your I-485 has been pending for 180+ days and the new job is in the same or similar occupational classification. Consult an attorney before making any job change.

What is the priority date and why does it matter?+

Your priority date is typically the date the PERM application was filed. USCIS only processes green card applications when the priority date becomes "current" in the DOS Visa Bulletin.