What is an E-3 visa for Australian specialists in the USA?
The E-3 Australian Specialty Occupation Visa is a special type of temporary work visa designed exclusively for Australian citizens who plan to work in the USA in professions that require specialized education and qualifications. This visa allows you to work in the USA for a period of up to 2 years with the possibility of extension.
The E-3 visa is unique due to its preferences for Australian specialists and a simplified application process compared to other categories of work visas.
Basic requirements for obtaining an E-3 visa in the USA
To apply for an E-3 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be an Australian citizen.
- Have a job offer from an American employer in a specialty that meets the “specialty occupation” category.
- Have at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
- Obtain a Labor Condition Application (LCA) from the US Department of Labor.
- Confirm your intention to stay temporarily in the US.
How to apply for an E-3 visa: step-by-step instructions
The process of obtaining an E-3 visa includes the following main steps:
- Receiving an official job offer from an employer in the US.
- Submitting a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the US Department of Labor and obtaining approval.
- Preparing a package of documents, including diplomas, resume and a letter from the employer.
- Filling out the online DS-160 form and paying the consular fee.
- Making an appointment and passing an interview at the US consulate in Australia.
- Obtaining an E-3 visa and entering the US for work.
Limitations and features of the E-3 visa
The E-3 visa has a number of features that are important to consider:
- The visa is issued exclusively to Australian citizens and is not transferable to other persons.
- Work is allowed only in the company and in the position specified in the permit.
- The maximum period of stay is 2 years with the possibility of unlimited extension.

Visa holders can accompany family members (spouse and children) who have the right to work in the USA.
Advantages of applying for an E-3 visa with the support of “Consultant”
- Professional consultation on the compliance of the specialty with visa requirements.
- Assistance in preparing and submitting a Labor Condition Application.
- Comprehensive support in collecting documents and preparing for an interview.
- Individual support at each stage of visa application.
- Prompt resolution of possible problems and requests from the consulate.
Application processing time and cost of legal support
The total time for applying for an E-3 visa is approximately 3–6 weeks, depending on the workload of the consulate. The cost of legal support on the “Consultant” platform starts from $480 for a basic package of services. Full turnkey support, which includes document preparation, LCA form submission, consulting and interview preparation, costs from $850.
ConclusionThe E-3 visa opens up unique opportunities for Australian professionals who want to work in the United States in fields that require specialized education. The legal marketplace “Consultant” offers comprehensive support for the successful application of this visa and comfortable completion of all formal procedures.