EB-2 vs EB-3 Green Cards in San Diego

Both categories lead to permanent residence but apply to different types of workers.
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Green Card for Professionals with Advanced Degree or Skilled Workers

EB-2 (Advanced Degree or Exceptional Ability)

The EB-2 and EB-3 categories allow U.S. employers to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residence through the PERM labor certification process.

For both businesses and international professionals looking to navigate this multi-stage pathway, partnering with a knowledgeable EB-2 and EB-3 visa lawyer in San Diego is essential to ensure compliance with complex federal regulations and secure a smooth transition to permanent residency.

EB-2 vs. EB-3

Understanding the key differences between these two employment-based classifications is critical. A qualified EB-2 and EB-3 visa lawyer in San Diego can help analyze your corporate role and educational background to determine which category fits your profile:

EB-2

The EB-2 category is generally used for positions requiring the following:

  • A master’s degree or higher; or
  • A bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive experience.

EB-2 may also apply to individuals with exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business.

EB-3

The EB-3 category applies to the following:

  • Skilled workers;
  • Professionals with a bachelor’s degree; and
  • Certain other workers requiring less experience or training.

Qualifying Professional Position.

The PERM Process: Step-by-Step

Most EB-2 and EB-3 cases involve a structured, multi-agency process that requires meticulous attention to detail. Working alongside an experienced EB-2 and EB-3 visa lawyer in San Diego helps employers successfully manage each critical phase:

  1. Prevailing Wage Determination (PWD): Securing the required wage rate from the Department of Labor (DOL).

  2. PERM Recruitment Process: Conducting mandatory, highly regulated advertising campaigns to test the local U.S. job market.

  3. PERM Labor Certification Filing: Submitting Form ETA 9089 to the DOL.

  4. Form I-140 Immigrant Petition: Filing the employer’s petition with USCIS once the PERM is certified.

  5. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: The final step for the professional and their family to obtain their physical Green Cards.
New Vetting Process at USCIS

What USCIS and DOL Look For

PERM-based cases require careful compliance with Department of Labor and USCIS regulations, including:

    • Proper job requirements and minimum entry standards
    • Recruitment compliance and strict documentation of applicant reviews
    • The employer’s continuous ability to pay the offered wage
    • The employee’s specific qualifications prior to the job offer and
    • An accurate, individualized filing strategy.

Errors in recruitment, job descriptions, or filing procedures can result in audits, denials, or significant delays. Properly addressing these items early with an EB-2 and EB-3 visa lawyer in San Diego mitigates these risks from the outset.

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How an EB-2 and EB-3 Visa Lawyer in San Diego Assists

At Carla Caballero Immigration Law, we assist both employers and professionals with EB-2 and EB-3 sponsorship matters. As your EB-2 and EB-3 visa lawyer in San Diego, our services may include the following:

    • Evaluating eligibility and selecting the appropriate visa category
    • PERM strategy and recruitment planning
    • Prevailing wage analysis and job duty alignment
    • Labor certification filings
    • Preparing and filing I-140 petitions
    • Guiding you through adjustment of status or consular processing.

Schedule a Consultation

Employment-based green card cases require careful legal and strategic planning from the very beginning of the PERM process.

Schedule a consultation with an EB-2 and EB-3 visa lawyer in San Diego today to discuss eligibility, sponsorship strategy, and the next steps for your EB-2 or EB-3 case.

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TN approval

April 27, 2026

Carla me ayudó con todo mi proceso para la visa de trabajo y no puedo estar más agradecida. Siempre estuvo súper al pendiente de cualquier duda y me explicó todo lo que podía pasar para que me sintiera tranquila en cada paso. Todo fue muy claro y organizado, y al final todo salió muy bien. La recomiendo muchísimo por su apoyo, profesionalismo y dedicación.

Florencia Alatriste Urbalejo - (TN approval)

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