Elsie UdohIf you’re a Nigerian student seeking to further your education in the US, you might be eligible to acquire a green card upon completion of your degree in the US.
A green card in the US allows you to live freely and paves the way for long-term opportunities in the US. The best part is that acquiring one is not even as difficult as you might think if you are a student.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThere are some easy ways to acquire permanent residency in the US, which you can take advantage of as a Nigerian student. This article will discuss the easiest ways to obtain a green card as a Nigerian student in the US.
Are Nigerian students in the US eligible for a Green Card?
Well, the simple answer to this is yes.
This is made possible by one of the proposed policies of US President Donald Trump’s recent administration. The policy aims to grant green cards to foreign graduates of US colleges, particularly in fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
If this is implemented, then this could create a direct route for Nigerian students to transition from studying in the US to working and living there permanently.
How To Obtain Green Card in The US as a Nigerian Student
Before this policy is fully implemented in the US, here’s how you can prepare now to obtain a green card after completing your studies in the US:
- Choose a STEM-related course of study, as these fields are often prioritised.
- Maintain an excellent academic record.
- Stay updated on US immigration policy changes to leverage opportunities as they arise.
How To Transition to An H-1B Visa to Obtain a Green Card in the US
Another way that you can obtain a green card in the US is by transitioning to an H-1B visa after completing your studies. This is easier to do when you study courses in high-demand industries like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
The H-1B visa will allow you to work in the US, and then your employer can sponsor your green card application.
Here are the steps to follow
Here’s how you can get a green card using the H-1B visa:
- Secure a job with a US employer willing to sponsor your visa.
- Ensure your job aligns with your field of study, as this increases your chances of approval.
- Work closely with your employer’s HR team to start the green card application process early.
Pro Tip: Consider applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) while studying to gain work experience and build connections with potential sponsors.
How to Obtain a Green Card Through Family Sponsorship
If you have family members who are US citizens or green card holders, then they can sponsor you for permanent residency.
This option is common for Nigerian students who have close relatives who are already settled in the US.
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Eligibility requirements
- Have immediate relatives (parents, siblings, or spouses) that can file a petition for you.
- Ensure all necessary documentation is submitted to avoid delays in processing.
How to Obtain a Green Card Through Marriage to a US Citizen
Another easy way to obtain a green card in the US is by marrying a US citizen.
This might mean that you develop genuine intent and commitment to somebody but when you do, especially to a US citizen, then you have a stable immigration status as a Nigerian student in the US.
Things to consider
- A marriage-based green card application undergoes thorough scrutiny to ensure it’s genuine.
- You’ll need to attend an interview and provide evidence of a legitimate relationship, such as joint accounts, photos, and shared lease agreements.
Note: Fraudulent marriages can lead to severe consequences, including deportation and a permanent ban from the US.
How To Obtain a Green Card Through Diversity Visa Lottery
The Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery) is another great opportunity to obtain a green card as a Nigerian student.
Nigeria is one of the eligible countries, and this program grants up to 55,000 green cards annually to applicants from under-represented nations.
How to apply
- Submit your application during the registration period (typically October to November).
- Ensure your information is accurate and aligns with your records to avoid disqualification.
- Check the official DV lottery website regularly for updates.
Pro Tip: Participation is free, so avoid falling victim to scams that demand payment for entry.
Final Thoughts
Securing a green card as a Nigerian student in the US requires careful planning, persistence, and sometimes a bit of luck.
There are also numerous opportunities to obtain a green card in the US, which you can take advantage of to secure your permanent residency status in the US this year.
Elsie Udoh is an SEO content writer who specialises in writing engaging stories that resonates with diverse audiences. She studied mass communication at the Lagos State University.
