Do You Get a Green Card After a PhD?
If you are a Canadian citizen who recently obtained a PhD, you may be surprised to learn that this achievement may help to qualify you for a green card in the US.
If you are a Canadian citizen who is pursuing a United States green card, contact Total Law for assistance. Speak to one of our expert immigration advisers today. Call +1 844 290 6312 or use the online contact form to get in touch regarding the green card process.
Getting a Green Card with a PhD
Once you complete your PhD program, your degree does not automatically grant you a green card in the US. However, having outstanding achievements such as a PhD can help you to qualify.
The most common green card categories for PhD holders to apply under are the EB-1A and EB-1B. These categories are both for those who have made significant contributions in their field and are not easy to qualify for.
They require extensive documentation to support your claim and these categories are carefully reviewed by USCIS.
"I'm very happy with the standard of training received on the OISC Level 1 course, i passed my exam. Thank you!"
Liam Calvert
Posted 3 years ago
"My application was approved and a huge weight has been lifted from our shoulders this year "
Akeel Lakar
Posted 3 years ago
"We used this service for the spouse visa extension application to assure that all the information was valid and correct."
Nabil Anwar
Posted 3 years ago
EB-1A
This category is for foreign nationals who have extraordinary abilities and have made outstanding achievements in the areas of arts, science, business, or sports. Proof of your achievement may include an international award, significant commercial successes, or other international recognition.
When you apply for a green card through the EB-1A category, you may need to submit the following documents to meet USCIS criteria for eligibility:
- An international award
- Other international recognition such as major media articles or other published material
- Scholarly articles that were published in major trade publications or other major media.
- Proof of significant contribution or a leading or critical role in your field.
- Proof of international acclaim.
- Membership of an association or organization that requires the member to possess major significance in the field and exceptional ability.
- Recommendation letters from influential persons in your industry.
- Proof of a salary that is exceptionally larger than others in your position.
EB-1B
This category is for outstanding professors and researchers.
PhD holders who apply under this category may need to submit the following evidence:
- An international award or other international acclaim
- Proof of significant contributions in your research field.
- Membership in an organization that supports your claim for exceptional ability.
- Material published by other respected figures regarding your work in the research field.
- Proof that you hold a leading or critical role in your industry, such as participating as a judge for the work of your peers.
- Scholarly articles or other published work that appears in major trade publications or other major media.
In both EB-1 categories, you may be able to submit comparable evidence if your circumstances are unique. It is best to consult a qualified immigration lawyer to determine if you may be eligible to apply under this category.
How to Apply for a Green Card
Obtaining a US green card permits you to live and work permanently in the US as a foreign national. You do not need your PhD degree in order to apply under the EB-1 categories as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.
International students may choose to begin the green card process while they are still in a PhD program. Once you determine your eligibility, you must submit your required documents, petition, and fees to the USCIS. You can self-petition or if you have a US employer, they may be eligible to petition on your behalf
The application process for a green card can be lengthy because applicants must wait for priority dates to match up before they can submit their applications. Your priority date can not be expedited.
Applicants for green cards may need to wait up to twelve months to receive a decision. Some employment-based green cards may be able to be expedited in some situations with premium processing. If you have a permanent job offer from a US company, employer sponsorship may be a significant benefit over self-petitioning.
How Can Total Law Help?
With Total Law, immigration services are provided by our team of expert immigration lawyers. Get quality legal assistance to navigate the process to lawful permanent residence in the US.
Your Total Law advisor will provide you with up-to-date advice on current immigration law and help you to put together the strongest evidence to support your claim for a green card.
For further information, contact us today at +1 844 290 6312 or use our online contact form to get in touch with our team of qualified immigration lawyers.
Advice Package
Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.
Application Package
Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Fast Track Package
Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.
Appeal Package
Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.
The Advice Package
During this untimed Advice Session with our professional immigration lawyers in London, you will receive our comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.
The Application Package
With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.
The Fast Track Package
Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.
The Appeal Package
By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.
Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
An expert immigration lawyer such as Total Law can help you with the application process for a green card in a number of ways. They may advise you on the best route to take for your situation, let you know updates on current immigration laws, and ensure you have the correct documents and forms when putting together your application package.
No, green card holders are not considered US citizens. A green card is proof that you are a permanent resident of the US, although you will not have the same rights that citizens have. If you are a foreign national PhD holder who intends to pursue United States citizenship, contact a qualified immigration attorney to assist you.
While a degree can help you to be eligible, it does not guarantee you a green card. What matters more is the quality and success of the applicant’s research, outstanding achievements, international acclaim, and significant contributions in their field of study or work.