Visto n' Visa
Blog
Notícias e artigos
Destinations
Careers
Immigrants

Can the E-3 be requested by change of status?

It is possible to apply for a change of status to the E-3 visa in the U.S., provided the candidate is in lawful status, meets the requirements, and follows the applicable immigration rules.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 3, 2026
2 min read
Share

The E-3 visa is a category aimed at Australian citizens who come to work in fields requiring specific qualifications in the United States. Many people who are already in the country with another non-immigrant status wonder if it is possible to change their status to E-3, and this question is quite common.

In fact, it is possible to apply for a change of status to E-3 while you are in the United States, provided you are in lawful status and meet all the required criteria. Usually, this process involves completing Form I-129, which must be submitted along with the employer’s petition, proving that the position is for a specialized occupation and that you have the necessary qualifications. It is important to remember that when making this request while already in the country, you must pay attention to the validity of your current status and ensure that there are no periods of irregularity during the process.

Furthermore, it is essential to strictly follow the United States immigration rules and gather all the required documentation. Proof of your qualifications, a formal job offer, and maintaining your current legal status are factors that can directly influence the success of the status change. Given the complexity of immigration laws, it is recommended to consult reliable sources or professionals working in the field – always with caution to avoid scams or promises of results that cannot be guaranteed.

In summary, changing your status to E-3 is a viable option if you comply with the legal requirements. Staying well informed and seeking specialized services can greatly help during the process, always respecting the current legislation and avoiding future complications.

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.

Victoria's tips

Can the E-3 be requested by change of status?

It is possible to apply for a change of status to the E-3 visa in the U.S., provided the candidate is in lawful status, meets the requirements, and follows the applicable immigration rules.

Recommended reading about E-2

More content about E-2

EB-2 NIW: vale a pena contratar advogado? EB-2 NIW
Victoria Harper Victoria Harper

EB-2 NIW: Is Hiring a Lawyer Worth It?

Attorney fees for EB-2 NIW range from $4,000 to $20,000. Find out when hiring makes sense — and when self-petitioning…