Key Points

  • Starting February 24, 2021, USCIS is extending premium processing service to E-3 petitions
  • E-3 premium processing is available to Australian nationals working in the U.S. in a specialty occupation
  • E-3 petitioners may use premium processing to request a change or extension of status
  • E-3 applicants may still apply from outside the U.S. through the Department of State
  • Premium Processing service guarantees 15 calendar day processing

Overview

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it has extended premium processing services to E-3 petitioners. The change is effective immediately.

What are the Changes?

Premium processing is now available for petitioners who are filing a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, to request a change or extension of status for an E-3 employee beneficiary.

Who is Affected?

The change applies to Australian nationals who perform services in a specialty occupation.

What Should Employers and Applicants Know?

Australian nationals who are applying from outside the U.S. can apply for an E-3 visa directly through the U.S. Department of State (DOS). Applicants who are already in the U.S. can submit their Form I-129 with USCIS. Employers with E-3 candidates or employees inside the U.S. can now assess the benefits of adding Premium Processing to their petitions with legal counsel.

To qualify for E-3, in addition to being an Australian national, applicants must have a legitimate offer of employment in the U.S., meet all necessary academic or other qualifying credentials, and fill a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation.

Looking Ahead

E-3 premium processing service guarantees 15 calendar day processing and may benefit employee start date or other employee and employer interests.

 Envoy is pleased to provide you this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Anne Walsh, who is a Managing Attorney at Global Immigration Associates, P.C. (www.giafirm.com), Envoy's affiliated law firm.

Originally published 24 February 2021

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.