To obtain a Green Card as an international student, you need to meet the eligibility criteria for one of the available categories such as employment-based sponsorship, family sponsorship, or winning the Diversity Visa Lottery. Each category has its own requirements and processes, so it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or review the official USCIS website for accurate and up-to-date information.
For those who want further information
In order to obtain a Green Card as an international student, there are several options available. It is important to understand that each option has its own requirements and processes. Here is a detailed explanation of the different categories and the steps involved:
- Employment-Based Sponsorship: This category allows international students to apply for a Green Card through a job offer or employment sponsorship. There are different preference categories within employment-based sponsorship, including:
a. EB-1: This category is for individuals with extraordinary abilities, including outstanding professors or researchers, multinational executives or managers, and individuals with exceptional abilities in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics.
b. EB-2: This category is for professionals with advanced degrees or individuals with exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, or business.
c. EB-3: This category is for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers with at least two years of experience or training.
To qualify for employment-based sponsorship, an employer must first initiate the process by filing a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the petition is approved, the international student can then apply for a Green Card.
- Family Sponsorship: Another option for international students is to obtain a Green Card through family sponsorship. U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are close relatives of the international student can petition for their Green Card. Immediate relatives, such as spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 years old, have the highest priority. Other relatives, such as siblings or married children, have lower priority.
To apply for family sponsorship, the sponsoring relative must file a petition on behalf of the international student. The petition will establish the qualifying relationship between the sponsor and the student, and if approved, the student can then proceed with the Green Card application.
- Diversity Visa Lottery: The Diversity Visa Lottery, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a program that provides a limited number of visas through a random selection process. This program aims to diversify the immigrant population in the United States.
To participate in the Diversity Visa Lottery, international students from eligible countries need to submit an application during the registration period. If selected, they can then apply for a Green Card.
In conclusion, obtaining a Green Card as an international student involves meeting the eligibility criteria of a specific category, such as employment-based sponsorship, family sponsorship, or winning the Diversity Visa Lottery. It is crucial to consult with an immigration attorney or review the USCIS website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Quote: “The United States has a long-standing tradition of welcoming immigrants from all walks of life. We have the opportunity to continue that tradition and to better secure the country, enhance economic growth and raise the standard of living of all in our great nation.” – John L. Smith.
Interesting facts about Green Cards:
- The term “Green Card” comes from the color of the identification card that was previously issued, although the card is now mostly white.
- The Green Card allows permanent residency in the United States, granting immigrants the right to live and work in the country indefinitely.
- Green Card holders can sponsor certain family members for their own Green Cards.
- Approximately 140,000 employment-based Green Cards are available each year.
- The Diversity Visa Lottery receives millions of applications each year but only a limited number of visas are granted.
Here is a table summarizing the different categories for obtaining a Green Card:
| Category | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Employment-Based Sponsorship | Job offer or employment sponsorship |
| Extraordinary abilities or advanced degrees | |
| Skilled workers and professionals | |
| Family Sponsorship | Close relatives who are U.S. citizens or permanent |
| residents can sponsor | |
| Priority based on the relationship with the sponsor | |
| Diversity Visa Lottery | Random selection through a lottery |
| Eligibility based on country of chargeability | |
| Limited number of visas available each year |
Please note that the information provided here is for reference purposes only, and it is essential to consult official sources or seek legal advice for accurate and up-to-date information related to obtaining a Green Card as an international student.
Response video to “How do you get a Green Card if you are an international student?”
This YouTube video titled “7 Legal Ways How an International Student Can Get a Green Card in the USA” discusses various options for international students on an F1 visa to obtain a green card. The video mentions seven options, including obtaining an employment-based green card through sponsorship from an employer, looking for a sponsor while on the OPT program in the STEM field, securing an H-1B visa and then applying for an employment-based green card, marriage to a US citizen or green card holder, filing for a family-based green card, participating in the Diversity Visa Lottery, and applying for an EB-5 Investor Visa. In addition, the video explains another option called the EB1A visa, which is for individuals with extraordinary abilities and allows for self-sponsorship or sponsorship by a company. To qualify for the EB1A visa, one must have extraordinary professional achievements and notable accomplishments. This option is suitable for highly accomplished individuals.
Check out the other solutions I discovered
To adjust your status from an F-1 student visa holder to a green card holder, you may: self-petition for an EB-1 visa, receive the sponsorship of your employer, adjust your status to a dual-intent visa, become an investor, or marry your love interest who happens to be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.