International Students: Us Citizenship Application Strategies

The process of obtaining U.S. citizenship as an international student is complex and typically begins with an F-1 visa, which allows students to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to extend their stay in the country. Following this, students can apply for an H1-B visa, which is a nonimmigrant classification for temporary employment and can lead to permanent residency, commonly known as a green card. After obtaining a green card, individuals can apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, which involves demonstrating English proficiency and knowledge of U.S. history, government, and the Constitution.

Getting an F1 visa

The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to study full-time in the United States. To be eligible for an F-1 visa, you must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate. Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and authorised by the U.S. government to accept foreign students. Additionally, you must be enrolled as a full-time student and be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses to achieve English proficiency.

To apply for an F-1 visa, you must first be accepted by an accredited US institution. Once you have received your acceptance, you can begin the visa application process by completing the DS-160 form, which is the non-immigrant visa application. You will also need to submit the following documents:

• Your I-20
• Passport
• Travel itinerary
• Photo for your visa
• DS-157 form (if you are male aged 16-45)
• Valid passport (with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US)

After submitting your application, you will need to schedule a visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate. The interview is a crucial part of the F-1 visa application process, as it allows the US consulate or embassy to confirm your qualifications and intentions to study in the US. During the interview, you will be asked a range of questions, including your reasons for choosing to study in the US and your chosen school, your academic performance and test scores, and how you plan to fund your education and living expenses. It is important to attend the interview in person and answer all questions truthfully and sincerely.

If your F-1 visa application is approved, you will be able to enter the United States as an international student. However, it is essential to maintain your valid F-1 status by complying with specific requirements, such as enrolling as a full-time student, maintaining passing grades, and not working off-campus during the first academic year. Additionally, you must remember that the F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa, and you will have a grace period of 60 days after completing your program to leave the country. If you wish to extend your stay or transition to another visa status, such as the H-1B visa for employment, you will need to take the necessary steps, such as finding an employer willing to sponsor your visa.

Applying for an H1B visa

The H1-B visa is a way for international students to stay employed in the United States after their OPT period ends. It is a non-immigrant visa for temporary employment in specialty jobs that require at least a bachelor's degree. The H1-B visa is typically valid for three years, with the option to extend for another three years under special circumstances.

To apply for an H1-B visa, you must first find an employer who will sponsor your visa and petition for your visa application. This is because, unlike other visa types, individuals cannot apply for an H1-B visa themselves—an employer must apply on their behalf. To qualify for an H1-B visa, you must prove an employer-employee relationship where the hiring company can hire, fire, and supervise your work. The position must typically require a bachelor's degree or higher, and the employer must pay the H-1B worker a wage that meets the requirements.

Once you have secured an employer, you will need to prepare for your visa interview. This may include sharpening your resume and familiarizing yourself with professional culture in the United States. You will also need to gather the necessary documents for your interview, including a copy of the USCIS Form I-797 H-1B approval notice and a copy of the H-1B petition. Some U.S. embassies or consulates may require the original approval notice, so it is important to check with your specific consulate.

If you are outside the United States, you must apply for the H-1B visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. It is recommended that you apply for the visa in your country of citizenship, as applying in another country may result in visa delays or denials due to the extra measures required to verify your relationship to your home country. Visa processing times vary by consulate location, time of year, and volume of applicants, so it is advised not to make any definitive travel plans before receiving your visa.

Getting a green card

The process of obtaining a green card and US citizenship as an international student is long and complex. However, there are several ways to get a green card as an international student.

Firstly, you can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) during or after your degree, which provides an additional 12 months in the US at each educational level. For those with a STEM degree, a 24-month extension period is available. While on OPT status, you can find a job with a qualifying US employer who can sponsor you to get an H-1B visa. This is a non-immigrant visa for temporary employment in specialty jobs that require a bachelor's degree.

Alternatively, if you are employed by a US-based company, your status may change from F-1 directly to H-1B after graduating. This visa lasts for three years, with an option to extend for a further three years. Towards the end of the six-year period, your employer will need to apply for a green card through an H-1B visa petition on your behalf.

Another option is to self-petition as a Person with Extraordinary Abilities and apply for an EB-1 visa. This is a specific visa for those who have achieved a lot and allows the holder to work permanently in the US in their field of specialty. However, it is important to note that the requirements for this visa are extensive and challenging to meet.

Additionally, you can become an investor in the US by investing between $500,000 and $1 million (or more) in a US commercial enterprise that creates more than ten permanent jobs. This would make you eligible for an EB-5 investor green card.

Finally, you can marry a US citizen to obtain a green card.

Taking the citizenship test

The process of obtaining US citizenship as an international student is long and complex. It involves transitioning from a nonimmigrant visa to an immigrant visa, which provides permanent residency in the US.

The citizenship test, also known as the naturalization test, is a crucial step in the process of obtaining US citizenship. It is designed to evaluate your knowledge of the English language, US history, government, and civics. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for taking the citizenship test:

Understanding the Test Format:

• The naturalization test consists of two main components: the English test and the civics test.
• During the English test, you will be assessed on your ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
• The civics test will focus on important questions about American government, history, and civics topics.

Preparing for the English Test:

• To prepare for the English test, you must demonstrate a proficiency in the English language. This includes being able to read, write, and speak basic English.
• During your eligibility interview (Form N-400, Application for Naturalization), a USCIS officer will evaluate your speaking and understanding skills.
• For the reading test, you will need to correctly read aloud one out of three sentences. The Reading Test Vocabulary List can help you study for this section.
• For the writing test, you will need to correctly write one out of three sentences. The Writing Test Vocabulary List will aid your preparation for this part.

Preparing for the Civics Test:

• The civics test will consist of up to 10 questions selected from a list of 100 civics test questions.
• You can find the official list of 100 civics questions and answers on the USCIS website. This resource is available in multiple languages, including English and Arabic.
• The civics test may also include questions about current affairs, such as the names of officials serving at the time of your interview. Make sure to review the Civics Test Updates page for the most recent information.

Age and Language Accommodations:

• If you are 65 years old or older and have resided in the US as a lawful permanent resident for 20 or more years, you may be eligible for certain accommodations.
• You can choose to take the naturalization test in the language of your choice and focus your studies on a reduced set of 20 questions marked with an asterisk ().

Study Resources:

• USCIS provides free resources, study guides, and tools to help you prepare for both the English and civics tests.
• These resources include flashcards, interactive practice tests, study booklets, and videos.
• You can also refer to the Guide for New Immigrants and the Guide to Naturalization published by USCIS for additional information and requirements.

Remember, obtaining US citizenship as an international student is a complex process, and you may benefit from seeking further guidance from official sources or immigration specialists.

Understanding the benefits of citizenship

Understanding the benefits of US citizenship is an important part of the decision-making process. US citizenship carries with it a range of rights and opportunities that can benefit individuals and their families.

One of the key benefits of citizenship is the right to vote. US citizens can vote in local, state, and federal elections, choosing leaders and voting on issues that directly impact their communities. This is a foundational aspect of democracy, allowing citizens to influence leadership and represent their interests. Along with the right to vote, US citizens can also run for public office and hold elected positions at the local, state, and federal levels. This includes serving on school boards, city councils, state legislatures, and even in the US Senate or House of Representatives.

Citizenship also offers benefits related to family. Citizens can sponsor and petition for family members, such as children, parents, spouses, and siblings, to obtain their own green cards and join them in the US. Additionally, children under 18 can typically derive US citizenship when their parents become citizens, providing them with the rights and opportunities that come with citizenship.

US citizenship also provides benefits related to employment and financial opportunities. Many federal jobs are reserved for citizens, offering a wider range of employment options across various government departments. Federal employees often receive competitive salaries and benefits compared to private-sector workers. Citizenship can also increase earning potential, with estimates suggesting a 5% or higher increase in earnings, leading to improved financial security and a positive impact on the national economy. Citizens are also eligible for certain scholarships, financial aid, and government benefits that may not be available to non-citizens.

Another advantage of US citizenship is the freedom to travel and live abroad without worrying about visa renewals. Citizens can travel frequently, re-enter the US through expedited citizen-only customs, and always have the right to return home. When abroad, they can access assistance and protection from US embassies and consulates, ensuring safety and support during personal crises or civil unrest.

Finally, US citizenship comes with certain civic duties and responsibilities, such as participating in a federal jury, which contributes to the fair administration of justice. While the US permits dual citizenship, it is important to note that some countries may require individuals to renounce their original citizenship upon becoming US citizens. Additionally, US citizens must file US income tax returns for life, regardless of their country of residence.

These benefits outline the opportunities and advantages that US citizenship provides, offering a more permanent and secure status for individuals and their families.

Frequently asked questions