Question:
Apparently you can get a student visa for up to five years and then have
optional practical training. Plus if you live in the US for 5 years your
eligible for a green card. Does this seem like a plausible way to get a
green card? Study for 5 years? Eesh!
Answer:
Who told you that? In order to get greencard, you have to fall inot
some categoryt hat allows you to apply for it. Go to www.uscis.gov and
read "Getting Greencard".
Does this seem like a plausible way to get a
That's false. Actually, intending to remain in the U.S. permanently
makes you ineligible to enter the U.S. as a student.
Student Visas are NOT a path to a residence or citizenship. However,
once you are here (in the US) the chances are greater for you to
attain a green card if you fall under any of the categories that are
listed on the website.
Specifically, you need to demonstrate "no intent to immigrate" at a US
consulate to get the student visa. If you have any intent to immigrate INS
wants you to apply under the relevant category and join the Queue and not
apply for an F1. You cannot directly apply for a GC from an F1, unless under
certain conditions. Most of the common GC categories are ruled out for F1
students.
