An Overview, Not Legal Advice
The EB-3 consular process is the path applicants living outside the United States follow to receive an immigrant visa based on an offer of employment. This article is a general overview only. The exact steps and requirements vary by case, and you should follow the instructions issued by the U.S. government and your authorized immigration attorney.
The Typical Journey
1. Employer Sponsorship
A U.S. employer offers a position and agrees to sponsor the applicant.
2. Prevailing Wage and Recruitment
The employer generally obtains a prevailing wage determination and conducts recruitment as required under the labor certification process.
3. PERM Labor Certification
The employer files a labor certification application with the U.S. Department of Labor.
4. Form I-140
Once labor certification is approved (or where applicable), the employer files Form I-140, the immigrant petition, with USCIS.
5. National Visa Center Processing
After the petition is approved and a visa number becomes available, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), which collects fees, forms, and civil documents.
6. DS-260
The applicant completes the DS-260 immigrant visa application.
7. Civil Documents
The applicant submits the required civil and supporting documents to the NVC.
8. Medical Examination
The applicant completes a medical examination with an approved panel physician.
9. Immigrant Visa Interview
The applicant attends the consular interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
10. Visa Decision or Further Processing
The consular officer decides the case, requests additional documents, or places the case in administrative processing where applicable.
11. Travel to the United States
If the visa is issued, the applicant travels to the United States within the visa's validity period.
Where the Interview Fits
The interview is one stage within this larger process. Understanding the whole journey helps you see why the officer asks what they ask: they are confirming that the foundation—employer sponsorship, labor certification, and the petition—matches your understanding and your application.
Requirements Can Change
Immigration procedures and visa availability can change. Always confirm current requirements with official sources and your authorized legal professional.