Anyone with a student visa in the United States (F-1 or M-1) can change visas or even obtain a Green Card. There are several visa options that can even lead to a Green Card:

H-1B: Specialty Professional Visa

• How It Works: After graduation, many students apply for the H-1B visa, which is a temporary visa for professionals in specialty occupations. This visa allows you to work in the US for up to six years.
• Path to a Green Card: While in H-1B status, your employer can sponsor you for a green card through the PERM certification process and an I-140 petition.

EB-2 and EB-3: Employer-Sponsored Work Visas

• How It Works: These are employment-based immigrant visas for skilled workers and professionals with advanced skills.
• Path to a Green Card: If you qualify, your employer can directly sponsor a green card application under these categories.

2. Marriage to a US Citizen

Another way to obtain a green card is through marriage to a US citizen. This is one of the fastest and most direct paths to permanent residency.

How It Works

• Process: After marriage, you can apply for a Green Card through the adjustment of status process, which involves filing an I-130 petition and an I-485 adjustment of status application.

3. Investment Programs

For students with significant financial resources, the EB-5 visa, also known as an investor visa, may be an option.

EB-5: Investor Visa

• How It Works: Requires a substantial investment (typically $900,000 to $1.8 million) in a U.S. company that creates at least 10 jobs for American workers.
• Path to a Green Card: This visa leads directly to conditional permanent residency, which can be converted to a Green Card after two years.

4. Extraordinary Talent Visa (EB-1)

If you possess extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, art, education, business, or sports, you may qualify for the EB-1 visa.

How It Works

• Process: Demonstrate substantial evidence of your achievements and recognition in your field.
• Path to a Green Card: You can apply directly for a Green Card without needing a job offer.

Finally, changing visas or obtaining a Green Card while studying in the US is a process that requires planning and understanding the various options available. While it may seem challenging, with the right guidance and a well-developed strategy, many students achieve this goal. If you are studying in the US and want to learn more about obtaining your Green Card or even changing your visa, Visa Finder is here to help. Contact us for a personalized consultation and discover the path that’s right for you.