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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.

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Australian National Employees (E-3)

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.
  • Visas can be held for an unlimited amount of time. The initial visa and extensions have 2-year increments.
  • 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. Read more on Visas For Spouses and Children.

Types of E-3 Visa Applications

There are several different types of E-3 visas, depending on whether you are a new or current E-3 visa-holder.

Applying for an Initial E-3 Visa

Initial E-3 applications are for Australian nationals (AN) outside the U.S. and those currently in the U.S. in other visa categories such as F-1, J-1, B1/B2, etc
Application procedures and checklists

Extending or Amending an E-3

If you are an E-3 beneficiary who needs to update your status in some way, you will fall into one of the following E-3 types:

  • E-3 COE (Change of Employer) are transferring to Northwestern from another institution.
  • E-3 EOS (Extension) would like to extend employment end-date
  • E-3 Amend hold an E-3 at Northwestern but need to change details such as job title, job description, salary, or hours worked.
Amendment procedures and checklists

Requirements for Maintaining Visa Status