Studying at a university in the United States does not directly lead to citizenship. However, it can be a pathway for some individuals to eventually obtain U.S. citizenship through various means:
- Employment-Based Immigration: Some students may transition to employment-based visas after completing their studies, such as the H-1B visa for skilled workers. If they meet certain criteria and their employer sponsors them, they may eventually apply for a green card (permanent residency) and, subsequently, citizenship.
- Family-Based Immigration: If a student has close family members who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, they may be eligible for family-based immigration sponsorship. This process can lead to obtaining a green card and eventually applying for citizenship.
- Investment-Based Immigration: Certain investor visa programs, such as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, allow individuals to obtain a green card by making a qualifying investment in the United States. This green card can eventually lead to citizenship.
- Diversity Visa Lottery: Some students may qualify for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV Lottery), which provides a limited number of visas through a random lottery. Winners of the lottery can apply for a green card and, eventually, citizenship.
- Asylum or Refugee Status: In some cases, students may qualify for asylum or refugee status in the United States based on persecution or fear of persecution in their home countries. Asylees and refugees can apply for a green card and, eventually, citizenship.
It’s important to note that each of these pathways has specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and timelines. Additionally, obtaining citizenship typically requires meeting residency requirements, passing a naturalization test, demonstrating proficiency in English, and meeting other criteria established by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Why students from Tier 2 countries don’t leave USA after getting University degree?
There could be several reasons why students from Tier 2 countries might choose to remain in the USA after obtaining their university degrees:
-
Career Opportunities: The USA offers a wide range of career opportunities across various industries and sectors. Students may find lucrative job prospects, career advancement opportunities, and access to cutting-edge research and innovation.
-
Quality of Education: American universities are renowned for their high-quality education and academic excellence. Students may want to capitalize on the knowledge and skills they’ve gained during their studies to pursue further education or enter the workforce in the USA.
-
Networking and Professional Connections: Studying in the USA allows students to build valuable professional networks and connections with peers, professors, and industry professionals. These networks can be instrumental in securing job opportunities and advancing their careers.
-
Immigration Pathways: As mentioned earlier, obtaining employment-based visas, such as the H-1B visa, may provide a pathway to long-term residency and eventually citizenship in the USA. Many students see their university education as a stepping stone to securing employment and permanent residency in the country.
-
Quality of Life: The USA offers a high standard of living, diverse cultural experiences, and access to world-class amenities and infrastructure. Students may appreciate the lifestyle and opportunities available in the USA and choose to make it their long-term home.
-
Personal Preferences: Some students simply develop a strong affinity for the USA during their time studying there. They may feel a sense of belonging, cultural integration, or personal fulfillment that motivates them to stay in the country after graduation.
It’s important to recognize that individual circumstances vary, and not all students from Tier 2 countries will choose to remain in the USA after completing their university degrees. Factors such as family ties, career aspirations, immigration policies, and global economic conditions can also influence their decisions.