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 US 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
Applying for an initial E-3 visa
Initial E-3 applications are for Australian nationals (AN) outside the U.S. Supporting documentation must be collected by the host department, and submitted to the OISS for review, intake and processing.
View steps for the scholar on the Instructions for Incoming E-3 beneficiaries page.
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.
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.