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Immigration Services

E-3 Visa Process for Australian Citizens

The E-3 visa is a temporary work visa for Australian citizens employed in a U.S. specialty occupation. These roles require highly specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). Permanent residents of Australia are not eligible unless they hold an Australian passport.

Key Facts:

  • Initial stay: Up to 2 years
  • Extensions: Unlimited, in 2-year increments
  • Annual cap: 10,500 initial E-3 visas

Sponsorship by Clemson University

Clemson must demonstrate that:

  • The job requires specific qualifications.
  • The candidate meets those qualifications.
  • The wage meets or exceeds the prevailing wage.
  • The paycheck is issued by Clemson University.

Apply and Maintain Your E-3 Visa

Applying for E-3 Status

There are two ways to obtain E-3 status:

  1. Outside the U.S.: Apply for an E-3 visa at a U.S. consulate with a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA).
  2. Inside the U.S.: Immigration Services files an E-3 petition with USCIS, including the certified LCA.

Maintaining E-3 Status

  • E-3 status is employer-specific: You may only work in the Clemson-sponsored role.
  • Changes in employment require a new petition and LCA.

Change of Address

All non-immigrants are required to notify USCIS within 10 days of a change of residential address. Please follow the instructions on USCIS’ website. You must also notify Immigration Services of the new address via email at empvisa@clemson.edu.

Dependent Visas

  • Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) may qualify for E-3 dependent visas.
  • Dependents do not need to be Australian citizens.
  • Spouses may apply for work authorization and a Social Security Number.
  • Children may attend school in the U.S.

Employment at Clemson

  • E-3 workers may only work in the Clemson-approved position.
  • To work for multiple employers, each must file a separate E-3 petition.

Social Security Numbers (SSN)

  • E-3 visa holders are eligible to apply for an SSN after 10 days of being in the U.S. in E-3 status.
  • Required documents when meeting with SSA include passport, I-94, and employer letter to a Social Security office.
  • Visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 for more information.

Travel Requirements

E-3 Visa Holders:

  • Valid E-3 visa stamp and passport
  • Letter from faculty sponsor
  • I-797 Approval Notice (if applicable)

Dependents:

  • Valid E-3 dependent visa stamp and passport
  • I-797 Approval Notice (if applicable)

Extensions

E-3 petitions can be filed six months before the current E-3 expires.

Status can be renewed indefinitely in 2-year increments if there is no intent to stay permanently. Extension options:

  • Apply abroad at a U.S. consulate
  • File with USCIS from within the U.S. (filing fees and processing time required)
A traveler walking with an orange suitcase at an airport entrance.

Changing or Leaving Employment

Switching Employers:

  • The new employer must file a new LCA and E-3 petition.
  • Notify Clemson’s Immigration Services to initiate any Clemson-sponsored E-3 petition.

Leaving Clemson:

  • Notify your department and affiliated office(s).
  • Inform Immigration Services of your departure.
  • No official grace period—timely planning is essential.

Questions?

For assistance or more information on E-3 visas, contact Immigration Services at empvisa@clemson.edu and refer to official U.S. government resources below.

Additional Resources