Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Can I get a greencard if I enter with an F1 Visa?

If I enter the US with an F1 visa,

can I change my status to a

permanent resident (get a

greencard)? My sister is a US citizen

and is willing to sponsor me.

Also, is it true that a sibling petition

wait time is 10 years? What is the

approximate wait?


Asked on 4/20/09, 2:30 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Joseph La Costa Joseph La Costa, Attorney at Law

Re: Can I get a greencard if I enter with an F1 Visa?

You really should consult an Immigration Attorney. Please send me an email if in Southern California with your contact information and we can discuss your particular facts. There is no fee for consultation.

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Answered on 4/22/09, 2:22 pm
Daniel Hanlon Hanlon Law Group, P.C.

Re: Can I get a greencard if I enter with an F1 Visa?

A sibling petition falls under the family-based fourth preference, which is the lowest priority. Depending on your country of birth, the wait could be 10-50 years. Note that the pendency of such a petition does not confer any legal status on the beneficiary while waiting for visa availability.

Regards,

Daniel P. Hanlon, Esq.

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Answered on 4/20/09, 1:36 pm
Ellaine Loreto Law Offices of Ellaine Loreto

Re: Can I get a greencard if I enter with an F1 Visa?

Yes, but it takes at least 10 years based on current visa bulletin issued by the Department of State. However, if you want to apply for a green card in the US, you have to maintain non-immigrant status before the visa bulletin becomes current.

Please contact our office for further discussion or email me at [email protected].

Note: The above response is provided for information only and should not be construed as legal advice, nor to create an attorney-client relationship, which can only be established through payment of consideration.

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Answered on 4/20/09, 2:33 pm


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