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Can the E-3 be granted to self-employed individuals?

The E-3 visa requires a clear employment relationship with a U.S. company and is not granted to self-employed individuals; other visa options should be evaluated.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on November 10, 2025
2 min read
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The E-3 visa is a non-immigrant visa option available exclusively to Australian citizens who wish to work in the United States in specialized occupations. It requires a job offer from a U.S. employer and compliance with specific requirements related to professional qualifications and the nature of the employment.

In the case of self-employed individuals, freelancers, or professionals intending to operate independently, the E-3 visa is not appropriate. This is because the granting of this visa depends, among other factors, on a clear employment relationship, in which a U.S. company commits to providing a job that meets the specialty criteria required by immigration laws. The self-employed person typically works on their own and does not have a permanent employment relationship with a U.S. company, which would prevent the application process for this visa.

It is essential to strictly follow U.S. immigration laws throughout the entire process. Seeking updated information and consulting reliable sources can make all the difference, besides helping to avoid risky situations such as scams and unfounded promises of quick results in immigration processes, which are often promoted by questionable marketing campaigns.

For those who intend to work independently in the United States or explore other visa categories, it is recommended to carefully evaluate other visa options that may be compatible with the professional profile and the nature of the intended activity. Each type of visa has its own criteria and requirements, and the correct choice is crucial to remain compliant with the country’s legislation.

Learn more about E-2 Visa

Type
Non-immigrant
Initial validity
2-5 years
Extension
Unlimited (2 years each)
Processing
1-4 months
All about E-2 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

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Can the E-3 be granted to self-employed individuals?

The E-3 visa requires a clear employment relationship with a U.S. company and is not granted to self-employed individuals; other visa options should be evaluated.

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