I’m currently on an F-1 visa, and my employer is open to sponsoring me for EB3 unskilled. However, I’ve heard the wait time is 6-7 years. I’m considering whether I should maintain my F-1 status or try for an H-1B in the meantime. Has anyone successfully navigated this path? What are the risks of staying in the U.S. while waiting for EB3 unskilled approval?
never experience this, but i can share my eb2 experience…
it would be better for you to maintain your legal status in the US while waiting for your green card. it can be F1, h1b or other, and you have to note that once your i-140 is approved, DO NOT travel abroad with non-immigrant visa such as F-1, J-1
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lol I heard those chicken farm will have short wait time
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You’re asking a really important question — yes, F-1 to EB-3 Unskilled is technically possible, but it comes with some serious considerations.
The Good:
• It’s a valid path if your employer is willing and able to sponsor you.
• No degree requirement — EB-3 Unskilled is open to roles like caregiving, warehouse work, food service, etc.
• Once approved, it leads to a green card for you, your spouse, and unmarried kids under 21.
The Challenges:
Long Wait Time:
• For countries like India and China, EB-3 Unskilled can take 6–10 years depending on your priority date and the visa bulletin.
• During that time, you must stay in valid nonimmigrant status (like F-1, CPT, or H-1B) — you can’t just wait without legal status.
Maintaining F-1 Status Long-Term:
• Tough to do unless you keep enrolling in new programs (e.g., second master’s, CPT programs)
• Risky if USCIS thinks you’re abusing F-1 just to stay while waiting for a green card
Adjustment of Status (AOS) Risk:
• If you’re in the U.S. and your priority date becomes current, you can file I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
• But you must be in valid status when filing — and EB-3 Unskilled doesn’t allow dual intent like H-1B, so you can’t switch to a tourist visa or fall out of status while waiting
hahaha time to go to georgia