7 Common Misconceptions Nigerians Have About the EB-3 Visa

The EB-3 visa offers Nigerians a real path to U.S. permanent residency but along with that opportunity comes confusion, rumors, and false promises.

At InvestMigrate, we often speak with Nigerians who’ve been misled by agents, social media posts, or outdated advice. They believe things like “you can quit your job immediately,” or “you’ll get to live anywhere in the U.S.”

These misunderstandings can lead to visa denials, status problems, or life in America that doesn’t match expectations.

In this post, we’ll break down 7 of the most common EB-3 visa myths Nigerian applicants should know in 2025 and share the facts that protect your future.

1. “I can quit my job two months after arrival and start my own business.”

🚫 False.

The EB-3 visa is employment-based. You’re being sponsored by a U.S. employer with the expectation that you will work for them for a reasonable period, usually 6–12 months or more.

Leaving too early, especially to start your own business, will be seen as a violation of your original intent. In worst cases, it could be considered immigration fraud.

✅ The truth: You must enter the U.S. with the good-faith intent to work for your sponsor. In the U.S., no one is expecting you to stick to just one job forever but you cannot move to a new job or open a new business immediately upon arrival.

2. “I can choose which state I want to live in.”

🚫 False.

Your EB-3 sponsor is located in a specific city and state. Your visa, and eventual green card, are tied to that job and location.

✅ The truth: You’re expected to live where your sponsoring employer operates. After a period of good-faith employment, you may relocate or switch jobs, but doing so too soon can raise red flags with USCIS.

3. “I’ll get to pick any job I want once I arrive.”

🚫 False.

The EB-3 process is based on a specific job offer certified by the U.S. Department of Labor. You are not allowed to change your role or employer without formal steps.

✅ The truth: Your green card is granted based on that original job. You must work in the job category (e.g. caregiver, kitchen staff, warehouse associate) listed in your labor certification. You cannot switch to unrelated work until you’ve met your obligations.

4. “The EB-3 visa is for skilled professionals only.”

🚫 False.

There are three EB-3 categories:

• Unskilled workers (EW-3): No experience or education required

• Skilled workers (EB-3 Skilled): Requires at least 2 years of training or experience

• Professionals (EB-3 Professional): Requires a U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent

  
  

✅ The truth: Most Nigerian applicants use the unskilled route, which still leads to permanent residency. This path is often more accessible than H-1B or study visas and doesn’t require advanced education.

5. “Travel bans or political changes could cancel my visa anytime.”

🚫 Partly false, partly misunderstood.

In the past, Nigeria was added to the U.S. travel ban list (2020), which caused fear and confusion. But EB-3 visas, as legal employment-based immigration, are not easily revoked without significant policy changes.

✅ The truth: If your EB-3 visa is already issued and you enter the U.S. before it expires, your green card process is usually secure. Legal immigrants with approved petitions are rarely targeted by bans. However, always stay informed and work with trusted advisors.

6. “I’ll receive my green card at the embassy in Nigeria.”

🚫 False.

You receive a visa stamp in Nigeria that allows you to travel to the U.S. It is only after entering the U.S. that you officially become a permanent resident. Your green card is mailed to your U.S. address after entry.

✅ The truth: The visa lets you cross the border. Your green card follows after arrival. Read our full post on this topic here.

7. “If I hire an agent, they’ll take care of everything for me.”

🚫 Dangerously false.

Some agents in Nigeria promise the world, they say "just pay and we’ll do it all.” But immigration is a legal process that requires your active involvement.

✅ The truth: A reputable consultant will guide you, prepare your documentation, and explain your options but you must still attend your interview, provide your own documents, and take responsibility for your choices.

Final Thoughts: Don't Let Myths Derail Your U.S. Dream

The EB-3 visa is a life-changing opportunity but only when approached with clear expectations. You need to have a clear understanding of the process, what your job in the United States will be and what your rights are as an EB-3 visa resident of the United States.

At InvestMigrate, we’ve seen people succeed when they:

• Understand the process step by step

• Know their rights and responsibilities

• Avoid agents who make false guarantees

• Ask questions instead of assuming

Still unsure about how the EB-3 works?

Let us walk you through it with honesty, transparency, and real answers. Book a free consultation here.