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Can the E-3 be used for part-time employment?

The E-3 can be used for part-time positions: what matters is whether the role qualifies as a specialty occupation, not the number of hours. Learn how your documentation needs to demonstrate that.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 22, 2026
1 min read
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Yes. There is no rule that prevents the E-3 from being used for part-time positions. Eligibility is not determined by the number of hours worked, but by the nature of the role: the position must qualify as a specialty occupation, one that requires specialized theoretical or practical knowledge and a compatible educational background.

The E-3 is the visa category for Australian professionals who will work in specialty occupations in the United States. Whether the position is full-time or part-time, the central question remains the same: demonstrating that the role, based on its duties and requirements, fits the definition of a specialty occupation.

When the work is part-time, the clarity of the documentation becomes even more important. The offer letter, the employment contract, and supporting materials must clearly show that the duties require the qualifications typical of a specialty occupation and that the terms of the offer meet the applicable standards.

Because each case is evaluated individually, it is worth confirming the current requirements with USCIS and the Department of State and, if possible, reviewing the strategy with an immigration specialist before filing.

Learn more about E-2

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

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. 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 used for part-time employment?

The E-3 can be used for part-time positions: what matters is whether the role qualifies as a specialty occupation, not the number of hours. Learn how your documentation needs to demonstrate that.

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