Update: USCIS tightened in-US change of status (2026 memo). The consular path via DS-260 (HCMC) is unaffected.
EB-3 Skilled Worker

What is EB-3 Skilled?

A U.S. green card through a job that requires skill, at least 2 years of training or experience. A U.S. employer proves they need you, once the government agrees, your family gets green cards.

How is it different?

  • EB-3 Skilled, job needs ≥2 years training/experience. (This is what LLK does.)
  • EB-3 Other Workers, jobs under 2 years (unskilled).
  • EB-3 Professional, requires a bachelor’s.
  • EB-2, advanced degree or exceptional ability.

Eligibility

Degree + experience

The job requires ≥2 years of training/experience. A relevant associate/bachelor’s/master’s, or equivalent experience, it must match the role.

Functional English

No mandatory English test, but enough to do the job and pass the DS-260 interview. Depends on the role.

Clean record

No criminal record, no prior U.S. visa refusal/overstay.

Willing to wait

This is a green card, not labor export. Each stage takes its own time.

Students / OPT

On OPT in the U.S.?

This is the fastest, smoothest group: you already have a U.S. degree, you’re here, and employers can meet you. Instead of the H-1B lottery or spending 4 more years and ~$80k re-studying to extend status, EB-3 Skilled is a direct route to a green card if you qualify.

Note: when you can file I-485 depends on which chart USCIS uses each month, we’ll advise based on your situation.

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Key terms, in plain words

PERM

The Dept. of Labor step: employer + attorney prove no qualified U.S. worker is available at the required wage.

I-140

The petition the employer files with USCIS to recognize you as a sponsored worker.

Priority Date

The date DOL receives your PERM, your “place in line” in the visa quota.

DS-260 / I-485

The final step: DS-260 (consular in Vietnam) or I-485 (adjustment in the U.S.).

EB-3 Skilled, Visa Bulletin status

● As of July 2026

Vietnam is charged to the Worldwide category (not backlogged like India/China).

Dates for Filing Current (C)
Final Action 01 Aug 2024

Source: U.S. Dept. of State Visa Bulletin →

Informational, not legal advice. Filings are handled by licensed immigration attorneys. No guaranteed outcome or timeline.