To add the Republic of Korea to the E-3 nonimmigrant visa program.

# Summary of HR 5534 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would allow South Korean citizens to apply for E-3 nonimmigrant visas to work in the United States. Currently, the E-3 visa program is available only to Australian citizens. If passed, South Koreans would gain access to this visa category, which is designed for specialty occupation workers—typically professionals in fields requiring advanced skills or education, such as engineering, IT, and specialized trades. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily benefits South Korean professionals seeking temporary work in the U.S. and U.S. employers in specialty fields who want to hire skilled South Korean workers.

It could also have broader trade and diplomatic implications, as it strengthens employment ties between the two allied countries. South Korean workers currently must use other visa categories (like the H-1B) to work in the U.S., which have different requirements and caps. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 5534 remains in committee and has not advanced to a vote. The bill was introduced by Representative Thomas Suozzi (D-NY). No further action has been taken, meaning it is still in the early stages of the legislative process.