Most people believe getting a U.S. Green Card requires paying an agency or lawyer between USD 10,000 and 20,000. In reality, you can apply for the EB-3 Visa—the Employment-Based Third Preference Category—by yourself, paying only USD 2,000 to 3,000 in official government fees.
The EB-3 Visa is a pathway to permanent residency in the United States through a full-time job offer. No investment requirement, no lottery, and no middlemen are necessary when you understand the process.
At The Immigration Magazine (TIM), we’ve created a comprehensive EB-3 Visa tutorial series to help you navigate every step confidently—from qualification to your final Green Card approval, so you can make informed decisions, avoid scams, and save thousands.

The EB-3 Visa opens a direct path to permanent U.S. residency through employment.
Step 1 · Understand the EB-3 Visa and Who Can Qualify
Discover how the EB-3 Visa works, who qualifies in 2025, and what categories exist for Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other (Unskilled) Workers. This first tutorial also explains the real costs, benefits of U.S. residency and common misconceptions.
Read Full Article → Understand the EB-3 Visa and Who Can Qualify
Step 2 · How to Find a Genuine EB-3 Sponsor and Avoid Scams
The key to a successful EB-3 application is a legitimate employer. This guide shows how to research sponsors, verify job offers, and recognize red flags before you lose money to false recruiters. Learn how to use official Department of Labor and USCIS databases for verification.
Read Full Article → How to Find a Genuine EB-3 Sponsor and Avoid Scams
Step 3 · Navigating the PERM Labor Certification Process
Before an EB-3 petition can be filed, every U.S. employer must complete the PERM Labor Certification.
This article explains each stage from prevailing-wage determination to recruitment advertising, so you understand what your sponsor must legally do.
Read Full Article → Navigating the PERM Labor Certification Process
Step 4 · Filing Form I-140 – Your Petition for the EB-3 Green Card
Once the PERM is certified, the U.S. employer files Form I-140 with USCIS. This tutorial outlines what documents are required, how to complete the petition accurately, and when premium processing may make sense.
Read Full Article → Filing Form I-140 – Your Petition for the EB-3 Green Card
Step 5 · EB-3 Green Card : Form I-485 and DS-260 Guide for 2025 Applicants
The final step converts your approved petition into a U.S. Green Card. Whether you apply through Form I-485 (inside the U.S.) or Form DS-260 (abroad), this guide covers medical exams, interview preparation, and how dependents can obtain residency with you.
Read Full Article → Form I-485 and DS-260 Guide for 2025 Applicants
Step 6: Final Step: Mastering the EB-3 Green Card Interview: Complete Step-by-Step Preparation and Approval Guide
The EB-3 Green Card interview is the final and most important step before becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
After months of applications — PERM, Form I-140, and DS-260 or I-485 — this interview is where an immigration officer confirms your eligibility, the authenticity of your employer, and your intent to live and work legally in the U.S.
Read Full Article → Complete Step-by-Step Preparation and Approval Guide

Low cost and family benefits are among EB-3’s top advantages.
Pros and Cons of the EB-3 Visa
Advantages
• Direct path to a U.S. Green Card and permanent residency
• Spouse and children under 21 included
• No investment requirement—only a valid job offer
• Low government fees (USD 2,000–3,000)
• Eligibility for U.S. citizenship after five years
Disadvantages
• Processing time averages 18–36 months
• Visa quotas can delay certain countries
• Employer must complete every legal step correctly
• Extensive documentation required
Focus Keywords: EB-3 visa pros and cons, EB-3 benefits, EB-3 processing time
Expert Tips for EB-3 Applicants
- Prepare your documents early; education and employment proof take time.
- Verify each employer through official registries.
- Keep copies of PERM, I-140, and visa forms.
- Never pay for sponsorship services.
- Monitor your priority date in the U.S. Visa Bulletin.
- Subscribe to The Immigration Magazine for EB-3 updates and policy changes.
What You Should Pay Attention To
- Fake agents claiming “guaranteed Green Cards.”
- Wages offered below the prevailing rate.
- Expired passports or medical exams that delay interviews.
- Reporting address changes immediately to USCIS or the embassy.
- Being honest and consistent throughout the interview process.

You can do it yourself — or get expert help from licensed partners.
Can You Do It Yourself or Hire an Expert?
The EB-3 Visa process is transparent and manageable for those who can follow instructions and prepare accurate documents. However, if you find English or legal forms challenging—or simply prefer professional assistance—we recommend working with a licensed immigration lawyer or authorized agency.
The Immigration Magazine collaborates with verified partners worldwide who maintain ethical and legal standards. Our goal is to empower you to apply independently if you wish, while supporting our trusted professional network for those who need expert representation.
Why This Series Matters
The EB-3 Visa 2025 remains one of the most inclusive U.S. immigration options for skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers. By learning how to complete each stage properly, you can save money, avoid fraud, and achieve permanent residency legally.
Every tutorial is written in collaboration with licensed immigration attorneys and government-accredited advisors to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness.
Follow for More Tutorials and Updates
If you found this series useful, follow The Immigration Magazine for free EB-3 resources, legal insights, and interviews with immigration experts. We regularly publish updates on policy changes, success stories, and practical how-to guides for global residency and citizenship programs.
Follow us for more and connect with us on LinkedIn/ Facebook for weekly immigration news.