The E-3 is a visa category for Australians only who are going to the U.S. to work temporarily in a "specialty occupation." A key advantage is that it allows Australians to avoid the H-1B quota which often runs out quickly.

An E-3 is similar to the very popular H-1B, except that it has additional benefits, such as not being subject to the six year limit, and permitting the applicant's spouse to work. Another key advantage is that it has its own quota, which is important because the regular H-1B quota often runs out quickly.