Studying Aboard in the United States?

How do I obtain immigrant status after studying in the United States?

• Okay. So I want to study at ERAU, but I need a student visa. I was looking at some info, and at the interview process, it stated that I must return after finishing my studies at ERAU. I plan on working in the United States after my studies, and I need an immigration visa. What do I do? (How can I go from the end of my studies to obtaining a visa number?)

• Answer:

  First you need a student visa to attend school in US. After completion of your study you must return your country, since F1 student visa is non-immigrant intended visa. If you mention that you want to work and live in US after your study, there is big chance you won't even get the student visa. After completion of your study, you may apply for Optional Practical Training to get work permit for 1 year, if you get hired by US Employer. If you succeed in your profession and US Employer is willing to continue to employ you, then they will petition you for Workers visa such as H1B. Or if you ace your work, they may even consider you for Green card. However, employment based green card is multi level, long process dealing with Department of Labor, USCitizenship and Immigration Service Center, Department of State, FBI. It can take from 5 years to 10 years. Good luck. http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1268.html http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1271.html http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1323.html