International Students In The Us: Permanent Residents?

International students in the US are typically those who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country. To be considered a permanent resident, an individual must have obtained authorization to live and work in the US on a permanent basis, which is evidenced by a green card. International students, on the other hand, are usually on a student visa, which allows them to enter the US as a full-time student. They are often subject to different application processes, tuition fees, and financial aid opportunities compared to US permanent residents.

International students and US permanent residency applications

International students in the US are classified as such if they are not US citizens or permanent residents. They are typically in the US on a non-immigrant visa, such as B-1, H-1, or J-1, or require a student visa, such as the F-1 Visa (Academic Student) or M-1 Visa (Vocational Student), to study in the US.

International students are generally treated differently from permanent residents by schools and universities. Permanent residents, or those with a "green card," are considered domestic students and are charged lower tuition fees. They also have an easier time financing their education and can borrow money from a variety of sources. Additionally, permanent residents may be perceived as more competitive applicants and do not face the same challenges as international students, such as visa restrictions and the need to maintain a residence abroad.

However, the distinction between international students and permanent residents is not always clear-cut. Some schools have different categories, with some grouping permanent residents with international students, while others treat permanent residents as US citizens. The specific policies and criteria for classifying students as international or domestic vary across different educational institutions.

It is important to note that permanent residency is not the same as US citizenship. Permanent residents have obtained authorization to live and work in the US permanently, but they are still citizens of another country. The process of obtaining permanent residency can be complex, and individuals seeking to become permanent residents are advised to consult with qualified immigration attorneys or experts in international student admissions.

International students and visas

International students must obtain a student visa to study in the United States. The type of visa required depends on the course of study and the type of school the student plans to attend. The three primary types of student visas in the US are:

• F-1 Student Visa: This visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies at an accredited US college, university, or English language institute.
• J-1 Exchange Visa: This visa is for participation in an exchange program, including high school and university study. It is also for foreign nationals who have been approved to take part in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, and research assistants.
• M-1 Student Visa: This visa is for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies or other non-academic training in the US.

To obtain a student visa, international students must demonstrate that they meet the requirements under US law, including proof of how they will pay all educational, living, and travel costs. As part of the application process, a consular officer will interview the student and determine their qualification for a student visa. Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are typically taken during this interview. After visa approval, the student may need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on their nationality.

It is important to note that international students cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas. While a Visitor (B) visa may be appropriate for short periods of recreational study, it does not permit study leading to a US-conferred degree or certificate. Additionally, once in the United States, international students on a non-immigrant visa (such as the F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas) may be able to request a change in their status through US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if their plans change, such as marrying a US citizen or receiving an employment offer. However, this does not guarantee a new visa, and students should not make final travel plans until they have secured the necessary visa for their intended travel.

Advantages of being a US permanent resident

International students in the US are not automatically permanent residents. International students can apply for permanent residency, which would grant them a Green Card.

Live and work freely in the US

Permanent residents can live and work anywhere in the United States without restrictions. They are also protected by US laws and can travel outside the country and re-enter more easily than with other visas. However, they must return within six months and cannot stay outside the US for more than 180 days annually without documentation showing their intention to return.

Access to federal benefits

Permanent residents can access federal benefits such as social security and education assistance. They may also be eligible for government-sponsored financial aid for education and in-state or resident tuition rates at certain colleges and universities.

Ability to sponsor family members

Green Card holders can sponsor other family members for permanent residency. While family members of US citizens are given higher priority, permanent residents can still help their relatives obtain legal status in the country.

Pathway to US citizenship

After living in the US as a permanent resident for several years, an individual can apply for US citizenship. If married to a US citizen, this waiting period is shorter, at three years.

Increased competitiveness for jobs

US permanent residents are often seen as more competitive job applicants than those with an H1B visa, as they do not face the same challenges and restrictions after graduation.

US permanent residency and tuition fees

International students in the US are not permanent residents. Permanent residency in the US is a legal status given to people who are not US citizens but who have been granted permission to live and work in the country permanently. This status is often referred to as having a "green card".

US permanent residency can be obtained in several ways, including through family sponsorship, employment, or asylum. Obtaining permanent residency typically requires an application process that involves providing various documents, paying fees, and demonstrating eligibility.

In terms of tuition fees, US permanent residency can have significant implications. At many US universities, tuition fees are lower for residents of the state in which the university is located. This "in-state" tuition rate is often significantly lower than the rate for "out-of-state" or international students.

To qualify for in-state tuition rates, students typically must demonstrate that they have established residency in that state. The specific requirements vary by state and university but generally involve living in the state for a certain period (often at least one year) prior to the start of the academic term. In some cases, students may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of employment or financial independence.

It is important to note that international students on non-immigrant visas are typically not eligible for in-state tuition rates, even if they have been living in the state for an extended period. However, there may be exceptions for certain visa types, such as refugees or asylees, who may be able to establish residency for tuition purposes if they meet certain requirements.

US permanent residency and employment

International students in the US are not permanent residents, as they are typically in the country on a non-immigrant visa. However, they can apply for permanent residency, which would grant them a Green Card and the right to live and work in the US indefinitely.

A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued by the US government that grants the holder permanent resident status. This status allows individuals to live and work in the US permanently and provides a pathway to US citizenship after a specified period (typically 3-5 years).

There are several ways to obtain a Green Card, including through family, employment, or refugee/asylee status. Within the employment-based category, there are multiple subcategories of workers who can apply for a Green Card, such as those with extraordinary or exceptional ability in their field. Spouses and children of US citizens or permanent residents may also qualify for a Green Card.

The Green Card application process can be complex and varies depending on the applicant's situation and category of eligibility. It typically involves submitting various forms, documentation, and fees, and may include interviews or medical examinations.

Once an individual obtains a Green Card, they have the right to live and work in the US permanently. They can change jobs, work for any employer, and reside in any state. Green Card holders also have access to certain benefits that are not available to non-immigrant visa holders, such as the ability to sponsor family members for Green Cards and eligibility for government assistance programs.

It is important to note that permanent residents must still comply with US laws and regulations and may be subject to removal if they commit certain crimes or fail to maintain their permanent resident status. After a certain period of time and meeting specific requirements, permanent residents may also be eligible to apply for US citizenship.

Frequently asked questions