How to Get PR in USA After Study? Green Card and F-1 Visa Eligibility for Indian Students

For many international students, the journey from study in USA to becoming a lawful permanent resident feels like climbing a steep hill—exciting but full of steps.

Indian students especially look for ways to convert their F-1 student visa and immigrant visa into permanent residency. With a clear path, the American dream doesn’t seem far-fetched at all. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a Green Card or Permanent Residency in USA 2025?

Did you know? The green card isn’t green anymore, but it still symbolizes permanent residency in the U.S. This legal document allows you to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis as per the US Department of State.

Here’s what it offers:

• Allows you to work in the U.S without restrictions.
• Enables you to apply for U.S citizenship after fulfilling certain conditions.
• Offers access to federal-benefits and protections.

Comparison Table: Green Card Features

What are the Different Types of Student Visas for Foreign Nationals?

Fun Fact: More than one million international students come to the United States on an annual basis, each on a specific visa category based on their course of study.

Below are the major categories:

• F-1 Visa: For study at an academic program at a university.
• M-1 Visa: For vocational or technical programs.
• J-1 Visa: For exchange programs including internships and research.

Student Visa Comparison Chart

F-1 Visa vs L-1 Visa vs H-1B Visa in USA for Indian Students

Strange but true: The F-1 visa is meant for students but is often the first step toward the coveted H-1B Visa or L-1 work visa and, eventually, a green card.

Let’s break it down:

• F-1 Visa: Non-immigrant visa to pursue academic studies.
• L-1 Visa: Allows internal company transfer to branches in the U.S.
• H-1B Visa: Allows specialty positions that require at least a bachelor’s degree.

Visa Type Comparison Table

What is the Process of Obtaining PR After F-1 Student Visa?

While not every road from an F-1 visa leads to permanent residency, a lot of international students wisely plan to get to a green card down the road. Here is exactly the process: 

• Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation which can help you gain necessary work experience.
• Apply for a H-1B visa with employer sponsorship for work.
• Begin the application for a green card under employment-based green cards.

F-1 to PR Process Table

What are the Immigration Requirements and Eligibility for F1 Visa?

Here’s something interesting: F-1 visa applicants must prove they have no immediate plans to stay in the U.S permanently—yet many go from student to permanent resident over time.

Here’s what you need:

• Valid admission from a SEVP-certified school.
• Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Strong ties to home country (to prove non-immigrant intent).

F-1 Visa Eligibility Table

How to Get PR in USA After Studying?

Getting permanent residency in the USA for international students isn’t automatic—it needs careful planning. Luckily, many international students succeed by building work experience and applying through employment-based green card categories.

Things to note:

• Obtain an H-1B visa after OPT through the employer in the United States.
• Qualify for permanent residence under the EB-2 or EB-3 categories.
• Apply for green card using Form I-140 and labor certification.

Post-Study PR Path Table

What is the Cost of PR in USA for International Students?

Did you know? The total cost of obtaining a permanent resident category in the USA can exceed $10,000 for international students, and budgeting is important.

So where does it come from?

• USCIS fees for all forms (including Form I-140 and Form I-485).
• Legal fees for an attorney or immigration consultant.
• Medical exam and biometrics fees.

PR Cost Breakdown Table

Conclusion

For Indian students, the main thing to remember if you want to achieve permanent residency in the USA is planning intelligently. You will begin with a student visa and ultimately end up with the US Permanent Residency (green card).

Having an understanding of the immigration process, eligibility, types of visas, and costs will allow you to make your application for permanent residency as smooth as possible.

If you have a suitable sponsoring employer, have the right experience, and are eligible in the preference categories, your American dream can become a reality. So, choose Ambitio and make your dreams come true!

FAQs