Is the E-3 process faster than the H-1B?

Generally speaking, yes: the E-3 tends to have a faster and less bureaucratic process than the H-1B. The main reason is that the E-3 does not go through the lottery system that, in the H-1B, results from high demand and a limited number of slots and tends to significantly extend the time it takes to obtain the visa.

Without that step, those who qualify for the E-3 can typically schedule their interview and complete issuance within shorter timeframes, provided the documentation is correct and complete. The H-1B, on the other hand, may include a lottery selection followed by a longer adjudication phase.

It is worth keeping in mind that processing speed is not fixed. It depends on factors such as:

• The time of year and the volume of applications during that period.
• The quality and completeness of the documentation submitted.
• The specifics of each individual case.

In other words, the E-3 tends to be more agile, but every situation is unique. It is worth checking the updated requirements on the official source (USCIS) and planning the process with a specialist before you begin.

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.