How to Apply for the EB-3 Visa from Nigeria: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Introduction: A Clear Path to the American Dream

Many Nigerians dream of living and working in the United States — not just for better opportunities, but for a more secure future for their families. The EB-3 visa offers one of the most realistic and direct routes to U.S. permanent residency (green card), especially for those willing to start with unskilled or entry-level jobs.

In a country where scams are widespread and legitimate migration routes are misunderstood, we at InvestMigrate believe in radical transparency. This blog walks you through everything you need to know about applying for an EB-3 visa from Nigeria all the way from eligibility and costs to timelines and key documents.

What Is the EB-3 Visa?

The EB-3 visa is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa that provides a green card to foreign nationals with a valid job offer from a U.S. employer.

There are three subcategories:

• Unskilled Workers (Other Workers): No degree or prior training required

• Skilled Workers: Requires 2+ years of experience or training

• Professionals: Requires a U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent

Who Can Apply from Nigeria?

To qualify, you must:

• Be between 18–50 years old

• Be physically fit for full-time work

• Have a clean criminal record

• Be willing to relocate permanently to the U.S.

• Be able to provide required documentation

  
  

You don’t need a degree or special skills.

Step-by-Step: The EB-3 Visa Application Process

Step 1: Job Offer & PERM Labor Certification

• A U.S. employer offers you a full-time position

• They apply for a PERM Labor Certification to prove there are no U.S. workers available

• Processing time: 6–12 months

  
  

Step 2: Form I-140 Petition

• The employer files Form I-140 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

• This confirms your job offer and eligibility

• Processing time: 4–9 months

  
  

Step 3: NVC Case Creation & DS-260 Submission

• After I-140 is approved, your case goes to the National Visa Center (NVC)

• You complete and submit Form DS-260, your immigrant visa application

• Upload supporting documents

  
  

Step 4: Medical Exam & Embassy Interview

• Schedule a medical exam with an authorized clinic in Lagos or Abuja

• Attend your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate

• Visa is issued upon approval

  
  

Step 5: Travel to the U.S.

• You’ll receive your immigrant visa in your passport

• After arrival, your green card is mailed to your U.S. address

  
  

Documents Required for Nigerian Applicants

• Valid Nigerian passport

• Birth certificate

• Police clearance certificate

• Medical exam results (from an approved physician)

• Academic records, e.g., WAEC (if applicable)

• Passport photographs (U.S. visa size)

• Translations of non-English documents

• Employment contract from your U.S. sponsor

  
  

EB-3 Visa Cost for Nigerians

Expect a total cost of $30,000–$40,000 (₦40M–₦60M). This includes:

• Government filing fees (PERM, I-140, DS-260)

• Visa medical exam

• Legal or consultant fees

• Travel and lodging for the interview

• U.S. flight ticket

📝 Important: U.S. law prohibits employers from charging you job placement fees.

EB-3 Processing Timeline (2025)

Stage	Estimated Duration
PERM Certification	6–12 months
I-140 Petition	4–9 months
NVC/DS-260 Processing	2–4 months
Interview & Visa Issuance	1–2 months
Total Time	14–24 months average

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Believing anyone who guarantees a visa

• ❌ Submitting fake or forged documents

• ❌ Missing deadlines or interview dates

• ❌ Working with unlicensed consultants

  
  

Always double-check every step and ask questions when in doubt.

FAQs for Nigerian Applicants

Q: Can my spouse and children come with me?

Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply for green cards as dependents.

Q: Do I have to pay the employer?

No. Employers are legally required to pay for recruitment. You cover only your processing and relocation costs.

Q: What jobs are available through EB-3?

Common roles include food service, housekeeping, warehouse work, caregiving, and factory jobs.

Final Thoughts: A Realistic Roadmap to U.S. Residency

The EB-3 visa is one of the most accessible legal migration pathways for Nigerians. If you are willing to work hard and follow the correct steps, permanent residency in the United States is achievable.

At InvestMigrate, we guide Nigerian families through this journey with honesty, care, and expertise.

📧 Questions? Contact us here.