Introduction
The EB-3 program remains one of the most accessible and stable employment-based immigration pathways to the United States for Vietnamese applicants. To plan your journey effectively, it is essential to understand the expected processing times for each stage in 2025, based on updates from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the Visa Bulletin.
1. Job Interview: 1–2 weeks
Applicants complete a direct interview with the U.S. employer to confirm job responsibilities, work shifts, and suitability. This step ensures that the job offer is legitimate and reflects real hiring needs.
2. PERM Labor Certification: 8 – 12 months
PERM is the longest phase in the EB-3 process.
It includes mandatory recruitment, case review, and possible audits.
In 2025, average processing times are projected to range from 8 to 10 months, with some cases extending to 12 months.
3. I-140 Petition: 8 - 12 months
Once PERM is approved, the employer submits Form I-140 to USCIS.
Premium Processing reduces the timeframe to 15 working days.
Regular cases typically take 8 to 12 months.
4. Visa Bulletin Waiting Time: 48–60 months
This stage depends on the annual per-country visa cap.
As each country cannot exceed 7% of the global EB-3 quota, Vietnamese applicants usually wait 4 to 5 years before their case becomes current with the National Visa Center (NVC).
5. Consular Interview: 1–2 months
Once the case becomes current, applicants complete the DS-260, attend the medical examination, and participate in the visa interview. Upon approval, they receive their immigrant visa and prepare to travel to the United States.
Conclusion
The EB-3 process requires patience, clear expectations, and accurate information. Filing early provides a significant advantage, helping applicants reduce overall waiting time and secure a better future for their families.
Total Global Agency is committed to guiding clients through every step with transparency, expertise, and consistent updates.
