On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026. While Â鶹´«Ã½ analyzes this complex rule, we are working to update our website and communicate guidance as quickly as possible. Members of the Â鶹´«Ã½ international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.
Initial E-3
The Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS) only accepts E-3 requests from NU sponsoring departments, so any E-3 application should begin with the E-3 applicant speaking with his or her sponsoring department; once the department has confirmed its sponsorship, the Australian National (AN) can apply.
View instructions for incoming E-3 beneficiaries
Petitions can only be started within six months of employment start date. OISS processing times are subject to change based on processing volume.
Steps for Host Department
1. Submit E-3 visa request documents to OISS
The host department is responsible for collecting and submitting the following items to OISS. Please save all documents in one PDF and send to oiss-scholars@northwestern.edu.
- E-3 Department Request Form
- Official University position confirmation, which must cover dates of requested E-3, salary and job title.
- For faculty: faculty appointment letter
- For staff positions: Human Resources offer confirmation letter
- For research staff: research staff appointment
- For postdoctoral fellowships: postdoctoral research appointment
- E-3 Itinerary Letter (See H-1B Itinerary example)
- CV
- Diploma
- Transcripts
- Credential Evaluation if degree is from overseas
- Passport Bio page
- Any previous immigration documents, such as DS-2019 or I-20
2. OISS and department manage the prevailing wage determination (PWD) and Labor Condition Application (LCA) requirements
- OISS obtains the prevailing wage determination to ensure that the university's wage offer is adequate.
- OISS files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor.
- OISS emails the LCA notice to the host department, which posts it at a conspicuous place for 10 business days. See posting notice instructions.
- The department then returns LCA to OISS.
3. OISS prepares materials for the E-3's visa application
- OISS prepares E-3 packet for the Australian National to take to U.S. Embassy.
- OISS coordinates with the host department for delivery of the E-3 packet to the E-3 beneficiary.