E-3 Visa Cost: A Complete Breakdown of Fees and Expenses

The E-3 visa offers Australian professionals a streamlined path to work in the United States, and it's generally more affordable than an H-1B visa. While total costs vary, the E-3 stands out for having no lottery system and significantly lower legal fees than most employment-based visa options. However, a prevailing wage determination and approved labor condition application are still required.

How much does an E-3 visa cost?

You can expect to spend at least $600 for an E-3 visa in 2026, but total costs could easily reach a few thousand dollars or more. Applicants who are already living in the U.S. generally pay more than those who live abroad.

That being said, unlike most other types of visas that can involve multiple petition stages, the E-3 has a relatively straightforward process and fee structure.

E-3 visa costs if you live outside the U.S.

Applying at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad—a process called consular processing—remains the fastest and most cost-effective path for most E-3 applicants. Beyond the main application, Form DS-160, there are only a few main fees you need to pay. You should still expect to pay an estimated $1,000 or more, but that number could be significantly different based on your situation.

E-3 fees through consular processing:

• Form DS-160 filing fee: $315 (includes interview and biometrics)
• Visa integrity fee: $250 paid at visa issuance
• Medical examination: often $100-$300, but varies by provider
• Travel expenses: Depending on your proximity to a consulate

E-3 visa costs if you live in the U.S.

If you're already in the United States on another valid visa status, the change of status process, using USCIS Form I-129, can easily cost $1,500 to $4,000 before any lawyer fees. Your employer will likely pay most or all of these costs.

E-3 fees through change of status:

• Form I-129 petition fee: $1,015 (or $510 for small employers and $0 for nonprofits)
• Asylum program fee: $600 (or $300 for small employers and $0 for nonprofits)
• Premium processing: optional $2,965 (as of March 2026) for expedited review
• Travel expenses: Depending on your proximity to a USCIS field office

Who pays E-3 visa fees?

If you’re filing for a change of status from within the U.S., most employers cover the core petition expenses. If you opt for premium processing to expedite Form I-129 review to 15 business days, your employer may split or fully pass that cost on to you.

If you’re applying from outside of the U.S., you can expect to pay the majority of expenses. You’ll also pay the fees for any immigration lawyer whom you hire yourself.

Of the fees you pay, most employers may reimburse those costs as part of your relocation package, but that isn't required by law. Negotiating cost coverage is often part of employment offer discussions.

Do you need a lawyer for an E-3 visa?

Not all E-3 applicants need a lawyer, but working with an experienced immigration lawyer can almost always simplify the visa process. They can help you put together a strong application packet, track deadlines, and help you plan for life in the U.S. beyond just getting your initial visa (like if you hope to go from an E-3 to a Green Card). If you’re applying for an E-3 through a change of status, they can also make the labor certification process much easier for employers to navigate.

If you’re unsure whether a lawyer is necessary, scheduling a free consultation may also be a good idea. Reach out today to see how one of Manifest’s E-3 lawyers can help you.

FAQs for E-3 visa costs

How much does an E-3 visa lawyer cost?

Legal fees for E-3 visa assistance typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on case complexity and whether you're applying individually or through an employer. Employers who hire a lawyer for help with PERM labor certification could pay significantly more.

Is the E-3 visa cheaper than the H-1B?

Yes, getting an E-3 visa will likely cost you thousands of dollars less than getting an H-1B visa. The process is also much faster in many cases.

Is it faster to get the E-3 visa than the H-1B?

Yes, in many cases. If you’re filing for the E-3 from abroad, it may only take about a month to get your visa. Processing a change of status can take much longer, but that may still be faster than getting an H-1B, especially since you could avoid the H-1B lottery.

Are E-3 visa fees refundable if denied?

No, government filing fees are non-refundable regardless of application outcome. However, for any fees that aren’t charged until visa issuance, like the visa integrity fee, you won't pay if your application is denied. If you use premium processing and USCIS doesn't adjudicate your case within 15 business days, that fee is refundable.