Does the E-3 require state licensing?

The E-3 is a work visa for Australian nationals in specialty occupations. On its own, it does not impose state licensing requirements: that obligation comes from the profession, not the visa.

In practice, you need to look at the specific occupation. If the field is regulated by state law, the professional must obtain the license or credential required by the state where they will work. This applies, for example, to fields such as:

• Medicine and nursing.
• Law.
• Engineering and other regulated professions.

In other words, the E-3 authorizes entry and the right to work, but it does not replace the local regulations of the profession. Requirements vary from state to state and from board to board.

Since each profession and each state has its own rules, it is worth confirming the requirements directly with the relevant professional board or regulatory body, and checking the current guidance from the official source before you begin practicing.

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.