Can you tell me how to become a permanent resident with an F1 visa?

Answer by  mb (5482)

You have to apply for residency through the US department of naturalization. The visa is nothing... it just means you can visit, its not a licence to immigrate.

Answer by  Erynn (1651)

You cannot convert an F1 visa to a permanent resident. The Student in question would have to apply for a resident visa of some kind; probably from home.

Answer by  Jimbob (2275)

You have to apply to become a citizen with this type of Visa and there is a long waiting period for approval after you have passed you entrance exams and proven fit to become a resident. The best way to achieve this is to hold on to your visa status as long as possible and continue to apply.

Answer by  srainne (2597)

There really is no way to turn the student visa into citizenship. The way to achieve permanent residency and citizenship is to do one of the following; follow process per the Department of Immigration regulations, marry someone with citizenship or obtain a permanent position with large company to sponsor you.

Answer by  StarOne (941)

Apply to become a permanent resident while you are here on your F1 status. You will have to fill out the proper paper work as required by law. You should start that as soon as you can. While you are here going to school it will help if you are an exemplary student and show you can support yourself.

Answer by  DraftEm (244)

The F-1 visa is a student visa, and does not lend itself easily to permanent residence. The best way to get your green card as an F-1 is to graduate, get a job while on OPT, then ask the employer to petition for you through the PERM process. You have 6 years while on H-1B time to get your card.