Focus on EB-3 Other Workers (Unskilled)
Introduction
The January 2026 Visa Bulletin remains a key reference for foreign workers following U.S. employment-based immigration categories. Among them, EB-3 Other Workers (unskilled workers) attracts significant attention due to its longer waiting period and frequent misconceptions online.
This article analyzes the January 2026 Visa Bulletin with a focus on EB-3 Other Workers and places Vietnam in comparison with other countries to provide a clearer overall perspective.
1. EB-3 Other Workers progress in the January 2026 Visa Bulletin
According to the January 2026 Visa Bulletin, for All Chargeability Areas (including Vietnam), the priority date for EB-3 Other Workers is September 1, 2021.
Compared to previous months, the priority date has continued to advance, with no freeze or retrogression. This indicates that EB-3 Other Workers is still being processed under the normal U.S. visa allocation system.
Picture 1: Visa Bulletin For January 2026 (Source: USCIS)
2. EB-3 Other Workers Waiting Time in the Current Context
The current waiting time for EB-3 Other Workers is estimated at approximately 4 years and 3 months. This figure is for reference only and may vary depending on visa availability, backlog volume, and processing pace.
Rather than focusing solely on the number of years, it is more important to observe whether the priority date continues to move, which remains the case in this bulletin.
3. Will later filings face longer waiting times?
In principle, the Visa Bulletin does not impose additional waiting time on later filings. Cases are processed strictly based on priority date order.
Earlier filings maintain their priority position, while later filings follow the same overall timeline of the EB-3 Other Workers category without extra penalties.
4. Comparison of EB-3 Other Workers across countries
| Country / Region | EB-3 Other Workers – Priority Date |
| Vietnam (All Chargeability Areas) | September 1, 2021 |
| China (Mainland-born) | December 8, 2018 |
| India | November 15, 2013 |
| Mexico | September 1, 2021 |
| Philippines | September 1, 2021 |
This comparison shows that Vietnam is currently in a relatively favorable position, comparable to Mexico and the Philippines, significantly ahead of India and more than two years ahead of China.
5. Brief overview of other employment-based categories
In January 2026, EB-3 Skilled Workers and Professionals are listed with a priority date of April 22, 2023, while EB-2 shows a priority date of April 1, 2024. These figures indicate that employment-based immigration continues to move forward at different paces depending on category requirements.
Conclusion
Although EB-3 Other Workers involves a waiting period, the January 2026 Visa Bulletin confirms continued forward movement with no indication of a freeze or suspension. When viewed in a broader context, Vietnam remains in a relatively stable position within this category.
