Immigration Resources for Academics, Researchers & Scholars

The majority of foreign nationals studying in the United States will require an F-1 student visa. For individuals with bachelor's degrees or higher degrees, employment in a "specialty occupation" via an H-1B visa is an option. Academics with advanced degrees who are struggling with the visa backlogs associated with PERM-based employer sponsorship, or who are looking for the freedom of filing as a self-petitioner, may explore options for filing under classifications for individuals with extraordinary abilities in business, science, arts, education, or athletics, for outstanding researchers or professors, or for work in the national interest.

We welcome you to read more about these immigration options. Questions? Contact an immigration attorney at Sivaraman Immigration Law to request a consultation.

F-1 Student Visa

The majority of individuals studying in the United States will require an F-1 student visa, sponsored by a school approved by the Student and Exchange… Read More

Curricular Practical Training

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorizes F-1 students to work through an internship or co-op course or as a required part of their degree progra… Read More

Optional Practical Training

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a type of employment that can be used either during the course of study as pre-completion OPT (part time during t… Read More

Permanent Residence

Individuals with advanced degrees who are struggling with the visa backlogs associated with PERM-based employer sponsorship, or who are looking for th… Read More

EB-1 Extraordinary Ability

Individuals with extraordinary abilities in business, science, arts, education, or athletics who can demonstrate sustained national or international a… Read More

EB-2 National Interest Waiver

The National Interest Waiver (NIW) application allows an individual to self-petition for permanent residence as long as the work of the individual is… Read More

EB-1 Outstanding Researcher and Professor

The Outstanding Researcher or Professor category requires an employer sponsor and, to be eligible, the individual must demonstrate they: a) Are recogn… Read More