EB-3 vs EB-5: Best U.S. Immigration Path for Nigerian Families

For Nigerians planning a future in the United States, two immigration options often stand out: the EB-3 visa and the EB-5 investor visa. Both lead to permanent residency (a green card), but the paths could not be more different.

The key question for many Nigerian families is simple: Which one is right for us?

In this guide, we’ll compare EB-3 and EB-5 side by side—not just in terms of requirements, but in what they mean for your family’s future.

What Is the EB-3 Visa?

The EB-3 visa is an employment-based green card. Nigerians qualify by being sponsored for a U.S. job, often in entry-level or “unskilled” positions.

The process involves:

• Employer sponsorship and labor certification.

• Filing with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• Consular processing and interview at the U.S. Embassy in Lagos or Abuja.

Key Advantages for Nigerians:

• Lower upfront cost compared to EB-5.

• Accessible for families without large investment capital.

• Path to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.

Main Trade-Offs:

• Takes longer (often 18–36 months).

• Requires starting with entry-level work.

What Is the EB-5 Visa?

The EB-5 visa is an investor-based green card. Nigerians qualify by investing a minimum of $800,000 USD into an approved U.S. project that creates at least 10 jobs.

Key Advantages for Nigerians:

• Faster processing compared to EB-3 (often 12–24 months).

• No work requirement because residency is based on investment.

• Flexibility in choosing where to live in the U.S.

Main Trade-Offs:

• High financial barrier ($800,000 minimum, plus fees).

• Requires proof that investment funds come from a legal, verifiable source.

EB-3 vs EB-5: Side-by-Side for Nigerians

Factor	EB-3 Visa	EB-5 Visa
Cost	Legal/government fees + relocation costs	$800,000 investment + fees
Timeline	18–36 months	12–24 months
Eligibility	Job offer from U.S. employer	Ability to invest capital
Work Requirement	Yes, initial employment is mandatory	No, residency is tied to investment
Family Inclusion	Spouse + children under 21	Spouse + children under 21
Best Fit	Families seeking opportunity without major capital	High-net-worth families seeking speed + flexibility

Which Path Fits Nigerian Families Best?

• EB-3 is best for: Families without large investment funds, but willing to work and gradually build a life in the U.S.

• EB-5 is best for: High-net-worth Nigerians who want speed, flexibility, and a more direct route without employment obligations.

Both visas ultimately lead to the same destination: U.S. permanent residency. The decision comes down to your resources, your timeline, and the future you envision for your family.

Conclusion

For Nigerians, the EB-3 and EB-5 visas represent two very different journeys but both open the door to the same outcome: a secure future in America.

If you’re ready to explore whether EB-5 fits your family’s goals, we can help you understand your options.