Approaching Graduation as a Foreign Student: Which US Visas Should I Apply For?

If you have spent the last few years earning a degree as a foreign student in the United States, you might be eagerly awaiting your graduation date. Leaving school may mark the beginning of a new career and a new life. However, you may also be concerned about your legal status as an immigrant. When your education finishes, you may no longer be eligible to remain in the United States under a student visa. What are your options in this situation? Can a Palm Beach County immigration lawyer help?

Did You Start a Serious Relationship While in College?

Many people meet long-term partners while attending college. If this is something you have experienced, you might want to consider a marriage-based visa to remain in the country. As long as you marry an American citizen or permanent resident, you may have the right to remain in the country for the foreseeable future. This may also allow you to continue studying in the United States and choose a graduation date with more freedom.

Do You Plan to Remain in Academia?

If you plan to remain in academia, you might want to consider an “extraordinary ability” visa. These “O-1 visas” may be perfect for high-achieving students who have contributed to their field of study in a meaningful way. For example, the O-1A visa may be the right choice if you have extraordinary ability in the sciences or education.

You might also qualify for the EB-1 visa if you have published a scholarly article in some kind of journal. This might apply to both professors and researchers. Another obvious option is to secure a teaching position at a university in the United States. As long as the school is willing to sponsor your immigration application, you may be able to remain in the country for the foreseeable future.

Do You Plan to Go Into the Private Sector?

You might also plan to go into the private sector after you graduate. Perhaps you have a STEM degree, and you’re already in high demand across numerous potential employers. If this is the case, you may need to streamline the transition between school and work. Consider reaching out to potential employers to see whether they are willing to sponsor your work visa.

Can a Palm Beach County Immigration Lawyer Help Me?

If you’re approaching your graduation date as a foreign student and you’re not sure about your immigration status, consider speaking with an experienced immigration lawyer in Palm Beach County. These legal professionals can review your unique situation and guide you toward the most appropriate visa choice. Remember, new immigration rules in the United States may limit the amount of time you can remain in the country as a student, regardless of when you plan to graduate. Contact The Devore Law Group today for more information.

Sources: 

uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/o-1-visa-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability-or-achievement

uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers/employment-based-immigration-first-preference-eb-1