5) Green Card Pathways (Permanent Residency)
Evaluate EB-1 path (the fast lane for exceptional talent)
EB-1 is the fastest employment-based green card because it skips the labor certification process. EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) lets you self-petition—no employer needed. You must prove you're in the top of your field by meeting 3 of 10 criteria: awards, published articles, judging others' work, original contributions, high salary, etc. EB-1B is for outstanding researchers—your employer petitions, and you need 2 of 6 criteria plus 3 years of research experience. EB-1C is for multinational managers who worked abroad for the same company for at least 1 year. Start collecting evidence NOW—publications, patents, press coverage, recommendation letters from industry leaders.
USCIS is currently cracking down on "Day 1 CPT" and schools that appear to be work-authorization mills.
- RFE Risk: If you use excessive CPT, you might get a Request for Evidence (RFE) when you apply for an H-1B or Green Card years later. The government may ask for your old syllabi and assignments to prove you actually studied while you were working.
- The "Integral" Rule: CPT must be "integral to the curriculum." If you are a Music major doing a CPT internship as a Software Engineer, that is a violation. The job must match your degree.
Free Resource:Day 1 CPT - Complete Pros and Cons | Consequences, Cost
Resources
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