One Gateway Center, Suite 2500Newark, NJ 07102
P: 973-624-2800F: 973-624-0356
100 Park Avenue, 16th FloorNew York, NY 10017
P: 516-683-0171
GENERAL
Aliens seeking to enter the United States for training in any field are generally classifiable as H-3 nonimmigrants (see exceptions and restrictions below). However, petitioning employers may not use H-3 classification for training programs primarily designed to provide productive employment, i.e., where services performed by trainees will benefit their U.S. companies and/or where authorized U.S. workers would be employed but for the trainees’ services. There is no statutory limit on annual H-3 admissions to the U.S.
Restriction: H-3 status is not appropriate for graduate education, including medical training. Practicing physicians require J-1 or H-1B status. Medical students may qualify for H-3 under special circumstances in approved hospital training programs.
DURATION
H-3 nonimmigrants will be admitted for the period of time necessary to complete the training specified in approved H-3 petitions, not to exceed two years.
REQUIREMENTS
Petitioning employers or sponsors must demonstrate that:
PROHIBITIONS
A training program will not qualify if:
Exception: Structured, professional programs that offer practical training and hands-on experience in educating special needs children are not subject to all of the standard H-3 requirements and prohibitions. A maximum of 50 aliens per year may be admitted in H-3 status to attend special programs lasting no longer than 18 months.
H-3 PROCEDURE
Step One
Petitioning employer or sponsor files Form I-129 (including H supplement) with USCIS Service Center having jurisdiction over the training area. Multiple beneficiaries can be included if the nature, duration, and location of training are identical. Petitions must include:
Step Two
Based on approval of H-3 petition (notified to petitioner on Form I-797C), an alien must apply on Form DS-156 at the nearest U.S. consulate abroad for a visa to travel to the U.S. (Canadians may present evidence of their approved status directly to USCIS inspectors at U.S. ports of entry). In cases of multiple beneficiaries, USCIS will notify respective consulate of each H-3 trainee. For the purpose of obtaining a visa, an alien may be required to convince a consular officer of intent to enter the U.S. for a temporary period of time and provide evidence of permanent ties to home country that support this intent.
DEPENDENTS
Spouses and children of H-3 principal trainees are entitled to H-4 status with the same restrictions as the principal. Employment is prohibited in H-4 status. H-4 dependents are permitted to pursue courses of study, but in this status are not eligible for practical training.
Contact our office to speak with a member of our Immigration Group.