Side by side
Both are employment-based green card categories. EB-2 is for advanced degrees or exceptional ability. EB-3 is for skilled workers, professionals and other workers.
| EB-2 | EB-3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Advanced degree (or a bachelor's plus 5 years), or exceptional ability | Skilled workers (2+ years of training), professionals (bachelor's), other workers |
| Job offer and labor test | Usually yes (PERM labor certification) | Usually yes (PERM labor certification) |
| Skip the job offer | Possible with a national interest waiver (NIW) | Not available |
| Waiting line | Own line in the Visa Bulletin | Own line in the Visa Bulletin; can move faster or slower than EB-2 |
| Typical use | Master's or PhD holders, strong professionals | Many nurses, engineers and tradespeople |
| Moving between them | Some people can use a higher category if they qualify | Some wait in EB-3 while EB-2 is closed, or the reverse |
Rules, fees and limits change, so check the official sites. Unofficial; not legal advice.
It changes each month and by country of birth. Check the Visa Bulletin and the priority date checker for your own country.
Sometimes, if you qualify for both. A lawyer can tell you if it fits your case.