Green card for Postdocs / Phds

Question:
I am an international student and have done Masters in Computer Science from New York Institute Of Technology (NYIT) with good GPA. I just want to know that is there is any way that you can get the greencard on the basis of PhD; if yes then plz let me know how it works.

Answer:
There are two self-petition categories (EB1A and EB2-NIW) where eligible candidates can apply for a green card without employer sponsorship. The eligibility is set by USCIS. Usually PhDs, due to the nature of their work, have an edge in satisfying the USCIS criteria and have a better chance in obtaining a green card. You can see more information in the frequently asked questions at the following link. Also please see the USCIS criteria for the two self-petition categories to see which one is appropriate for your background and work experience.

If you are F1, you may also want to see this blog post.

Sincerely
Green card for Phd Team

Disclaimer:
The contents in this web site are only for your information and are not intended to be legal advice.

Question:
I am interested in applying for Green Card. I graduated from university of Athens, school of medicine. I did my PhD at the same institution (degree expected in early 2012), I have 6 publications and 3 under review, 60 presentations in national and international meetings, currently working in the USA (Boston, MA) on H1b visa, I also received 6 first awards in Greece and I have 2 scholarships.

Q1:
What do you think my chances are?

Answer:
Your resume looks strong. A well prepared petition will have a good chance. The right category (EB1a or NIW) depends on your research/work area and your overall evidence.

Q2:
Can you guide me through the process?

Answer:
The green card for PhDs website has a self-petition packet that has example petitions. Several people have successfully used these to build their petitions. We help by answering questions which petitioners have.

Q3:
How long it will take in case it is approved?

Answer:
GC has two main applications, i-140 and i-485. Generally the first one is quicker. You can find the overall time it takes in the USCIS processing schedules website. This depends on the category you apply to and the country of your origin.

Detailed answers to your questions and most commonly asked questions can be found in pdf format at the link.

Sincerely
Green card for Phd Team

Disclaimer:
The contents in this web site are only for your information and are not intended to be legal advice.

Question:
I need some information to apply for EB1 visa. My husband is an Indian completed his PhD in life science (Biology) from one of the German universities. Now he got an offer to join as a Postdoctoral researcher in New York. Is it possible for him to apply for an EB1 (I guess EB1-2 for researcher or professor)? Please inform me regarding this. If he is eligible for EB1 visa, please inform me how we can proceed with this.

Answer:
If he plans to self-petition either EB1a (extraordinary ability) or EB2-(NIW) are the right categories. He can view the USCIS criteria for these categories to see if he has the requisite evidence. The following e-book has commonly asked questions on the application process.

Also example petitions (for example see the link) can be useful in making a petition and several other right decisions.

Sincerely
Green card for Phd Team

Disclaimer:
The contents in this web site are only for your information and are not intended to be legal advice.