One of the questions many people have when participating in the EB-3 program is: “Who is currently handling my case?” or “Who is responsible for tracking my case at each stage?”
In reality, an EB-3 case is not handled by a single individual or agency from beginning to end. Depending on the stage, responsibilities are shared among the employer, immigration attorney, relevant U.S. government agencies, and the worker.
Understanding the role of each party will help you follow the progress of your case more easily and know whom you need to coordinate with at each stage.
Stage 1: The Employer Initiates the Case
An EB-3 case begins with the employer in the United States.
The employer is the entity that has a need to hire workers and carries out the necessary procedures in accordance with applicable regulations to sponsor a foreign worker.
At this stage, the employer will coordinate with an immigration attorney to prepare the relevant documents before submitting them to the appropriate authorities.
Stage 2: The Immigration Attorney Coordinates the Preparation of the Case
After the employer provides the necessary information, the immigration attorney will provide legal support, review the case, and prepare the required documentation in accordance with applicable regulations.
During this process, the attorney also serves as a point of coordination with the employer if any information needs to be supplemented or revised.
Stage 3: The Relevant Authorities Review the Case
Once the case is submitted, it will be reviewed by the appropriate U.S. government agencies, depending on the specific stage of the process.
During this period, the employer and immigration attorney will monitor the progress of the case and coordinate responses if additional information or documentation is requested.
Stage 4: NVC Receives the Case
When the case becomes eligible to proceed to the immigrant visa stage, the National Visa Center (NVC) will receive the case and provide instructions for the next steps.
NVC will provide guidance on completing the case, receive the required documents, and coordinate the scheduling of the visa interview once the case is eligible.
Stage 5: Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
After completing the required steps with NVC, the case will proceed to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for the immigrant visa interview.
At this stage, a consular officer will review the case and make a decision in accordance with applicable regulations.
The Worker’s Role Throughout the Process
In addition to the employer, immigration attorney, and relevant government agencies, the worker also plays an important role throughout the process.
The worker needs to:
- Provide accurate information.
- Prepare documents as requested.
- Monitor notifications related to the case.
- Respond promptly when additional information is required or when it is time to proceed with the next steps.
Being proactive can help the case process proceed more smoothly.
Why Is It Important to Understand the Role of Each Party?
When workers understand which stage their case is currently in and which party is responsible for handling it, they can:
- Better understand the progress of their case.
- Know whom to contact when they have questions.
- Prepare proactively for the next steps.
- Avoid misunderstandings regarding processing times and the responsibilities of each party.
Conclusion
An EB-3 case is a process that requires coordination among multiple parties, including the employer, immigration attorney, relevant U.S. government agencies, and the worker.
Understanding the role of each party not only makes it easier to track the progress of your case but also helps you prepare proactively for each stage of your immigration journey.
If you would like to learn more about the EB-3 process or have questions regarding your case, please contact Total Global Agency (TGA) for assistance from our professional team.
