Unskilled Jobs in the USA: The Real Cost of Relocating on an EB-3 Visa for Foreign Workers

The United States continues to experience labor shortages in essential sectors such as manufacturing, food processing, logistics, caregiving, hospitality, and construction. To address this gap, US employers may sponsor foreign workers for unskilled or “other worker” roles under the EB-3 employment-based immigrant visa category, which can lead to permanent residence (green card).

We explain actual costs, legal requirements, timelines, and risks foreign applicants should understand before pursuing EB-3 unskilled jobs in the United States.

Understanding EB-3 Unskilled Jobs in the USA

The EB-3 visa category includes a subcategory known as “Other Workers,” which applies to jobs requiring less than two years of training or experience. These roles are legally classified as permanent, full-time positions and must be sponsored by a US employer.

Common EB-3 unskilled jobs include:

• Factory and production workers

• Warehouse and logistics laborers

• Food processing and packaging workers

• Hotel housekeeping and cleaning staff

• Caregivers and support workers

• Construction laborers

All EB-3 positions are regulated under US immigration and labor law, and the process is employer-driven.

What “Visa Sponsorship” Really Means Under EB-3

EB-3 sponsorship does not mean free relocation or guaranteed approval. It means:

• A US employer agrees to permanently hire a foreign worker

• The employer completes labor certification proving no qualified US workers are available

• The job meets prevailing wage and legal requirements

• The worker applies for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status

The process involves multiple government agencies and strict compliance standards.

The Real Cost of Relocating to the USA on an EB-3 Visa

Government and Legal Costs (Mandatory)

These costs are fixed or regulated and unavoidable:

• Labor Certification (PERM): Employer-paid, legally required

• Immigrant Petition (Form I-140): Typically employer-paid

• Immigrant Visa or Adjustment of Status fees: Paid by applicant

• Medical examination and vaccinations

• Police clearance certificates

While employers must pay certain fees by law, some costs are legally the worker’s responsibility.

Legal and Attorney Fees

Most EB-3 cases require immigration attorneys due to complexity and compliance risk. Attorney fees may include:

• Petition preparation and filings

• Case monitoring and government correspondence

• Consular processing or adjustment support

Fees vary by case and jurisdiction and should always be transparent and contract-based.

Settlement and Relocation Costs

Even with a sponsored job, foreign workers should budget for:

• International travel to the USA

• Temporary accommodation upon arrival

• Food, transportation, and daily expenses

• Housing deposits and basic furnishings

• Health insurance during initial employment period

These costs can be significant and are rarely fully covered by employers, especially for unskilled roles.

Timeline and Opportunity Cost

EB-3 unskilled visa processing times can be longer than skilled categories, often taking multiple years depending on country of chargeability and visa availability.

Applicants should consider:

• Long waiting periods

• Changes in personal circumstances

• Risk of employer withdrawal

• Currency fluctuations and savings erosion

Time is a major indirect cost in EB-3 relocation planning.

Wages and Living Reality for EB-3 Unskilled Workers

EB-3 unskilled jobs must meet prevailing wage requirements, but wages are typically modest relative to US living costs.

Typical earnings:

• Hourly wages aligned with minimum or local industry standards

• Overtime pay subject to labor laws

• Limited initial benefits compared to skilled roles

Workers should realistically assess whether wages align with housing, healthcare, and family needs.

Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations

EB-3 applicants must be cautious of:

• Recruiters charging illegal placement fees

• Employers violating wage or contract terms

• Unauthorized job changes before green card approval

• Misrepresentation or document fraud

US immigration law strictly penalizes violations, which can result in permanent ineligibility.

Eligibility Requirements for EB-3 Unskilled Jobs

Applicants must generally demonstrate:

• Ability to perform the job as described

• Willingness to accept permanent, full-time employment

• Medical and security clearance

• Clean immigration and background history

No university degree or advanced training is required.

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Secure a legitimate EB-3 sponsoring employer

2. Employer completes labor certification (PERM)

3. Employer files immigrant petition (I-140)

4. Wait for visa availability under priority date

5. Apply for immigrant visa or adjustment of status

6. Relocate and begin lawful permanent employment

Applicants should work only with licensed attorneys or verified employers.

Who EB-3 Unskilled Jobs Are Suitable For

EB-3 unskilled visas may suit:

• Foreign workers seeking permanent US residence

• Applicants without advanced education

• Individuals prepared for long timelines

• Workers able to cover relocation and settlement costs

• Candidates prioritizing long-term stability over short-term income