How International Students Can Get a Green Card in the U.S.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Permanent Residency After Studying in America

If you're an international student in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, you may be wondering if you can stay permanently after graduation. The answer? Yes—but only through certain immigration pathways.

In this post, we break down the most common ways international students can obtain a U.S. green card, and what you need to do to start your journey toward permanent residency.

Can International Students Get a Green Card?

Yes, but an F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa, which means it doesn’t automatically lead to a green card. However, you may be eligible to adjust your status through employment, family sponsorship, or other means after graduation.

Pathways from F-1 Visa to Green Card

• Employment-Based Green Card (EB-2 or EB-3)

One of the most common routes is through employment sponsorship. Here’s how it works:

• Graduate and get OPT (Optional Practical Training)

• Get sponsored for an H-1B work visa

• Your employer files for a green card through EB-2 or EB-3

Best For: Students in fields like STEM, finance, healthcare, or tech

• Green Card Through Marriage to a U.S. Citizen

If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for a green card through family sponsorship.

Important!!: This marriage must be bona fide, not just for immigration purposes.

• Green Card Through Family Sponsorship

If you have close family members who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents (like a parent, sibling, or adult child), they may be able to petition for your green card.

Note: Wait times vary depending on your family relationship and country of origin.

• Green Card Through Asylum or Refugee Status

If returning to your home country poses a risk to your safety or freedom, you may be able to apply for asylum. One year after being granted asylum, you can apply for a green card.

⚠️ Warning:  There are certain timeline for you to follow, contact us to find out more.

• Can You Stay in the U.S. After Graduation?

Yes, but only if you take action. Here are your most common post-graduation options:

• Apply for OPT to work temporarily

• Seek H-1B visa sponsorship

• Married to a U.S. citizen (if applicable)

• Adjust status through family or employment

• Apply for the Diversity Visa Lottery or asylum (if eligible)

Tips for Students Seeking a Green Card

Plan early, don’t wait until your visa is close to expiring. Build a strong academic and employment record. Use CPT and OPT wisely to gain U.S. work experience. Keep lawful status at all times work with a qualified immigration attorney to avoid costly mistakes

Final Thoughts

Getting a green card as an international student is possible, but it takes planning, knowledge, and legal guidance. Whether you're nearing graduation or just starting your studies, the best time to explore your options is right now.

Need Help With Your Immigration Journey?

At The Danquah Law Group, we’ve helped hundreds of students and young professionals adjust status and build lasting futures in the United States.