Detailed guidance on pathways to permanent residency in the United States. Explore various options including employment-based and family-based applications, understand processing times, and learn about required documentation for a successful application.
Employment-Based Green Card: Many F1 students apply for an employment-based green card, typically through the H-1B visa (a temporary work visa) as an intermediary step. Your employer can sponsor you for a green card under categories such as EB-2 (for advanced degree professionals) or EB-3 (for skilled workers).
Yes, it is possible to apply for a green card while on a student visa (F1), but the process can be complex and requires careful planning. Here are the key points to consider:
Dual Intent:
The F1 visa is a non-immigrant visa, which means it is intended for individuals who plan to return to their home coun
Adjustment of Status (AOS): If you are already in the U.S., you can apply for AOS (Form I-485) to switch from F1 to a green card without leaving the country.
Consular Processing: You can apply for a green card through consular processing, which involves applying for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate in
The F1 visa is a non-immigrant visa, which means it is intended for individuals who plan to return to their home country after their studies. Applying for a green card (immigrant visa) while on an F1 visa can create issues because it indicates an intention to immigrate. You will most likely get a denial if you get married before your student visa appointment. Disclosing your spouse's legal stat
It is crucial to maintain your F1 status while your green card application is pending. This means continuing to meet the requirements of your F1 visa, such as maintaining full-time enrollment.