EB-3 Visas in Atlanta

Individualized EB-3 Guidance for Atlanta Workers & Employers

An EB-3 case depends on more than a worker’s occupation or academic credentials. At Ross & Pines, we evaluate the applicant’s education, professional record, proposed work, employer relationship, and immigration history to determine whether the position and worker may qualify.

We represent individuals, families, and employers in Atlanta in immigration matters, including green cards and employment-based visas. Our individualized review identifies the appropriate worker classification and the requirements that must be addressed as the case moves from employer sponsorship toward permanent residence.

Discuss an EB-3 visa with our immigration attorneys. Call (404) 812-4300 to arrange a consultation.

Who Qualifies for an EB-3 Employment-Based Green Card?

The EB-3 preference category covers three worker classifications. In each, the applicant must satisfy the education, training, experience, and job requirements stated in the approved filing.

Skilled Workers
A skilled position requires at least two years of training or work experience. The offered job can’t be temporary or seasonal, and the applicant must document the qualifications required for the position.

Professional Workers
A professional position requires at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. A combination of education and experience can’t substitute for the required degree.

Other Workers
This classification covers positions requiring less than two years of training or experience. Its annual sub-limit of 10,000 visas can affect availability and when an applicant may complete the permanent residence process.

Choosing Among EB-3, EB-2 & EB-1 Categories

EB-3 generally has a lower eligibility threshold than EB-2, but the categories aren’t interchangeable. The position’s minimum requirements and the applicant’s qualifications determine which preference category may fit the case.

EB-3 requires a sponsoring employer and doesn’t permit self-petitioning. The second-preference category is generally available to applicants with an advanced degree or exceptional ability. Some applicants may pursue a National Interest Waiver, which can allow self-petitioning without the PERM process.

EB-1 is a separate employment-based preference category with its own eligibility standards. We examine the proposed job, employer relationship, credentials, and immigration record rather than selecting a category based on one qualification alone.

The Employer-Sponsored EB-3 Process in Atlanta

An employer-sponsored case generally begins with a permanent job offer and PERM labor certification. Through PERM, the employer seeks Department of Labor confirmation that qualified U.S. workers aren’t available for the position at the prevailing wage.

Recruitment & PERM Certification

For a professional position, PERM recruitment generally includes a 30-day job order, two Sunday newspaper advertisements, and three additional recruitment steps. Recruitment for a nonprofessional position generally includes a job order and two Sunday newspaper advertisements.

Schedule A provides a different filing route for certain occupations. Qualifying employers may submit an uncertified Form ETA-9089 directly with Form I-140 for professional nurses, physical therapists, and qualifying workers of exceptional ability.

Form I-140

After PERM approval, the employer files Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers. The petition generally must be filed within 180 days of the approval date. It must show that the applicant meets the offered position’s education, training, experience, and other requirements.

Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

Once a visa number is available, an eligible applicant in the United States may pursue adjustment of status. An applicant completing the process abroad may use consular processing. The appropriate path depends on the person’s location, immigration history, and eligibility at that stage.

We provide individualized representation and meticulous preparation throughout employment-based immigration cases. We assess the facts, identify the applicable requirements, and help the parties prepare the filings for the available processing path.

Priority Dates & the November 2026 Visa Bulletin

A priority date establishes an applicant’s place in line for an immigrant visa. The Department of State’s monthly Visa Bulletin controls visa-number availability, and its Final Action Dates determine when the government may approve adjustment of status or issue an immigrant visa through consular processing.

For the November 2026 Visa Bulletin, EB-3 Final Action Dates for skilled workers and professionals are:

• Most countries: June 15, 2024
• China: January 22, 2022
• India: January 22, 2014
• The Philippines: August 15, 2023

For November 2026, EB-3 other workers Final Action Dates are:

• Most countries: June 1, 2022
• China: October 1, 2019
• India: January 22, 2014
• The Philippines: January 1, 2022

Visa Bulletin cutoffs can change each month. The relevant date also depends on the worker’s classification and country of chargeability, so current availability must be reviewed before the next filing step is chosen.

Plan the Next Step in Your EB-3 Matter

Individuals and employers work directly with an experienced Atlanta immigration attorney. Immigration consultations are subject to a fee so we can examine the proposed position, qualifications, sponsorship structure, and immigration history before discussing possible next steps.

Our partners have more than 100 years of combined legal experience. Our lawyers are AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell and have received recognition from Georgia’s Legal Elite and Super Lawyers.

Call (404) 812-4300 to schedule a consultation with Ross & Pines about an EB-3 employment-based green card.