McEntee Law Group applauds Congress’ bipartisan bill to extend E-3 visas to Irish nationals. We are closely monitoring the bill as the US House of Representatives prepares to vote and we are very excited for the incredible opportunities this proposal would offer to eligible Irish nationals and US companies alike.
On April 30th, Congressman Richard Neal introduced the E-3 visa bill (H.R. 2418) to the House of Representatives, and the proposal requires unanimous approval from the House and Senate in order to reach President Trump’s desk for signature. We are encouraged by the bipartisan support the bill has already garnered, and eagerly await confirmation of the bill’s passage in the House within the coming days.
The proposed bill highlights the strong, historic ties between the United States and Ireland, and reflects commitment of both nations to maintaining this special relationship.
The E-3 visa currently authorizes Australian citizens, in professional positions to live and work in the US for a period of two years. The visa can be renewed and there is no maximum limit – with some limited exceptions. There are 10,500 E-3 visas available each fiscal year. Spouses and children are permitted to accompany E-3 visa holders.
This proposed bill would allow eligible Irish nationals to apply for the approximately 5,000 E-3 visas unused by Australian citizens. The proposal offers a suitable, long-term option for qualifying Irish citizens to live and work in the US.
The bill reflects the sustained advocacy of Irish Senator Billy Lawless, Teachta Dála (TD) and Special Envoy to US Congress John Deasy, and numerous other organizations across the country for the past decade including our Managing Attorney, Fiona McEntee. As a proud Irish immigrant, Fiona has tirelessly advocated for the expansion of the E-3 visa to include Irish citizens with both US and Irish officials, including Chicago-based Irish Senator Billy Lawless. McEntee Law thanks the tremendous effort of the Irish government over the past decade including the steadfast commitment of John Deasy, the Irish Government’s special envoy to the U.S.
McEntee Law is closely monitoring the bill’s progress and will provide updates as they become available on our social media.
