The F1 visa holder continues their master’s degree studies in the U.S. while searching for possible long-term stay options. The H-1B visa secured through their employer after graduation was their original plan until they discovered that both lottery risks and limited spots made them consider other routes to obtaining a Green Card.
Foreign students who plan to enter the H-1B lottery system can improve their chances by applying multiple times during their OPT and STEM OPT period. Their legal advisor recommended that they actively pursue Green Card opportunities through EB2 or EB3 categories whenever a potential employer shows interest in sponsorship. The challenge? The main obstacle lies in discovering an organization that would proceed with the PERM labor certification process. The alternative option under consideration is applying for an O-1 visa that requires demonstrating extraordinary ability within their field but demands significant achievements and recognition.
Considering these possibilities what would be the most suitable step forward? Should the candidates rely on H-1B lottery opportunity while hoping for success or should they directly follow a Green Card acquisition path? I would appreciate hearing advice from anyone who has managed to reach successful outcomes when confronted with this same challenge.
