How to Track Your EB-3 Green Card Status and Handle Processing Delay

Published: January 21, 2025

Foreign nationals with specialized skill sets and experience can secure long-term employment opportunities in the US under the EB-3 visa program. The EB-3 visa is a third-preference employment-based green card that automatically qualifies eligible professionals and other workers for permanent residency. 

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) limits EB-3 immigrant visas to 28.6 percent of the worldwide employment limit, approximately 40,040 visas annually. Because of its easy eligibility criteria, the demand for EB-3 visas is high. 

Visa retrogression occurs when more applicants apply for a particular category, such as the EB-3 green card, than the annual visa quota. In that case, the application can only proceed if the priority date becomes current. 

Such delays can be frustrating and affect travel capabilities, employment opportunities, and other aspects of life. Learn how to track your EB-3 green card status and handle potential delays during processing times. 

Critical Steps to Track Your EB-3 Green Card Status

Staying informed at every stage of your EB-3 visa application is crucial in managing expectations and avoiding unnecessary confusion. Below are some critical steps to help you track the status of your EB-3 green card.

Check your priority date

Your priority date indicates your place in the EB-3 green card processing queue. It refers to the day the USCIS receives the petition for you to work in the US permanently or after the employer files PERM labor certification. That process ensures foreign workers only fill jobs that US workers can’t.

Monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin.

The Department of State provides a Visa Bulletin every month, which shows the availability of visas and what categories can proceed. Specifically, this information lets you know how close you are to being qualified to submit your EB-3 green card application. Remember, you need your priority date when monitoring the monthly Visa Bulletin.  

Utilize the USCIS online case status tool 

The USCIS online case status tool gives you valuable updates on the status of your petitions and applications. Suppose the agency approves your application or petition. You can view the approval notice online. A 13-character receipt number is crucial to utilize the tool. You’ll receive a unique code for every form you submit to USCIS. 

Practical Tips to Handle Processing Delays

The processing time for EB-3 visas can range from 1 to 3 years, depending on the applicant’s country of origin. However, most EB-3 visa applicants deal with extended wait times and uncertainties about their immigration status. Here’s what you can do to handle processing delays in your EB-3 visa application: 

Remain updated on processing times

USCIS provides an estimate of how long it typically takes to process different immigration forms on its website. You can use the case processing time tool and know how long processing may take even if you haven’t applied to the USCIS. Hence, remaining updated on these processing times will help you establish realistic expectations for your EB-3 application timeline. 

Reach out to USCIS for an update

You can reach out to USCIS for an update if your EB-3 application is taking longer than anticipated processing time. The following are a few ways to contact USCIS for specific information about your application:

• Call them at 1-800-375-5283. 
• Send an inquiry request via mail or utilize the Ask Emma chat feature.
• Send them a message via your USCIS online account. 

Suppose you have contacted USCIS directly within the last 90 days and given them a minimum of 60 days to resolve your concerns. You can seek case assistance from the Office of the CIS Ombudsman. 

Keep your employer informed

Your employer may be required to take specific actions throughout the immigration process. Thus, keep them informed about any updates or changes in your EB-3 application. This way, they can be ready to respond promptly should the USCIS request additional information or documentation. 

Seek Legal Guidance for Your EB-3 Visa Applications

Although almost any job is eligible for an EB-3 visa, delays are common in the immigration process. The upside is that you can mitigate its impact with the right strategies and legal guidance from an immigration lawyer. 

Our team at ALG Lawyers, Los Angeles Immigration Lawyers, is well-equipped to assist you. With decades of experience handling various immigration cases, we can provide personalized assistance for your EB-3 visa applications and other immigration concerns. Connect with our law firm today for an initial consultation.