Skip to main content
Alert

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026 and will affect members of the international community in different ways. As OISS gathers more information and communicates specific guidance to individuals and groups, we ask that members of the international community refer to the DHS Rule on Admission and Extension webpage as an up-to-date resource. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.

We're N this together We're N this together

E-3 (Australian National) Visas

The E-3 specialty occupation visa category is for Australian nationals (AN).

Visa summary:

  • Visa-holders are skilled workers with a bachelor's degree or higher, entering the U.S. to perform services in a “specialty occupation."
  • The initial visa and extensions have 2-year increments, and stay can be granted indefinitely.
  • The OISS only accepts E-3 requests from NU sponsoring departments, which must confirm sponsorship of an E-3 before an AN can apply.
  • Dependents of the E-3 beneficiary hold E-3 dependent visa status, and may apply for work authorization upon arrival in the US. 
  • E-3 visas are not dual-intent, unlike the H-1B visa.

Steps for the Host Department

Extension/Amendment, Change of Employer or Change of Status to E-3

  • E-3 COE (Change of Employer) are transferring to Northwestern from another institution.
  • E-3 EOS (Extension/ Amendment) would like to extend/amend employment.
  • E-3 COS (Change of Status) currently holds status in another immigration category such as J-1 or F-1.

View steps for the scholar on the Instructions for  E-3 beneficiaries page. 

Instructions for host departments

E-3 Dependents (Spouses and Children)

Dependents of the E-3 beneficiary hold E-3 dependent visa status. Visit then E3 Visas for Spouses and Children page for more information.