This complete guide from Abneducation will show you, step by step, how to get a PR in the USA after studying there, if you wish to study in US.
A lot of international students wrongly look for a “PR state in the USA.” It’s vital to know that the US doesn’t use the term “PR” formally, as Canada and Australia do. A Green Card is what you get if you want to live in the US permanently.
What Does PR in the USA Mean?
Getting a Green Card, also known as lawful permanent resident status, is what PR (Permanent Residency) entails in the United States.
Once you receive a Green Card:
- You can live permanently in the USA
- You can work for any employer.
- You can travel in and out of the country.
- You can apply for US citizenship after 5 years (in most cases)
So when students search for “pr in usa” or “pr state in usa,” they are referring to getting a Green Card after studying.
Can You Get PR in the USA Directly After Study?
Short Answer: No, not directly.
Unlike some countries, the USA does not automatically give PR after graduation. Instead, you must follow a legal pathway:
- Study in the USA on an F1 Visa
- Work legally after graduation
- Get employer sponsorship or qualify under another Green Card category
- Apply for permanent residency
Step-by-Step Process: How to Get a PR in the USA After Studying
Step 1: Study in the USA on an F1 Visa
Most international students study in USA under the F-1 visa.
The F1 visa allows:
- Full-time study
- Limited on-campus work
- Eligibility for post-study work through OPT
However, it does NOT give PR directly.
Step 2: Apply for OPT After Graduation
After completing your degree, you can apply for:
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
The program is officially known as Optional Practical Training.
OPT allows:
- 12 months of work in your field of study
- Up to 24 months STEM extension (if eligible)
Total for STEM students = 36 months of work authorization
This period is critical for finding an employer who can sponsor your Green Card.
Step 3: Get an H-1B Work Visa
Most students move from OPT to the H-1B visa.
The H1B visa:
- Is employer-sponsored
- It is valid for 3 years (extendable to 6 years)
- Allows “dual intent” (meaning you can apply for PR while on it)
This is the most common pathway to PR in the USA after studying.
Main Pathways to Get PR in the USA After Study
There is no single “PR state in the USA.” Instead, PR is granted at the federal level through Green Card categories.
Here are the main options:
1. Employment-Based Green Card (Most Common)
This is the primary route for international students.
Categories include:
- EB-1 (Extraordinary ability)
- EB-2 (Advanced degree professionals)
- EB-3 (Skilled workers & professionals)
Most graduates qualify under:
- EB-2 (Master’s or higher degree)
- EB-3 (Bachelor’s degree)
The process usually involves:
- Employer sponsorship
- PERM Labor Certification
- I-140 Petition
- Adjustment of Status (I-485)
Timeframe: 2–10 years, depending on the country of origin.
2. Family-Sponsored Green Card
If you marry a US citizen or have close relatives in the USA, you may qualify for family-based permanent residency.
This is usually faster than employment-based routes.
3. EB-5 Investment Green Card
If you invest a significant amount in the USA and create jobs, you may apply through the EB-5 investor program.
This is less common for fresh graduates but possible for entrepreneurs.
4. National Interest Waiver (NIW)
If you have advanced skills and your work benefits the USA, you may apply under EB-2 NIW without employer sponsorship.
This is ideal for:
- Researchers
- PhD graduates
- STEM professionals
How Long Does It Take to get a PR in the USA After Study?
Typical timeline:
- Study: 2–4 years
- OPT: 1–3 years
- H1B: 3–6 years
- Green Card processing: 2–10 years
Total: 5–12+ years depending on visa category and nationality.
Best Degrees to Increase PR Chances in the USA
For faster PR opportunities, consider:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Data Science
- Healthcare
- Nursing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
STEM fields offer longer OPT duration and better sponsorship chances.
Final Thoughts – Planning Your PR Journey Smartly
It is possible to get a PR in the US after studying. However, you need to plan your visa carefully, choose the right degree, get sponsorship from an employer, and know how immigration works. You don’t automatically get “PR status in the USA.” Instead, you have to follow specific immigration paths to obtain a Green Card.
Abneducation can help you develop a clear, strategic plan for your future if you wish to study in the US and need expert advice on colleges, the visa process, and long-term PR planning.
