Can I pursue a green card while on H-1B?

Yes, it is possible and common to pursue a green card while holding an H-1B. This visa is a dual intent visa, which means the holder can maintain temporary status while simultaneously starting the permanent residence process without jeopardizing their current status.

In most cases, an employment-based green card requires employer sponsorship in one of the employment-based immigration categories. The path typically involves steps such as labor certification, an employment-based immigrant petition, and finally, adjustment of status within the U.S. or consular processing abroad.

• The H-1B allows you to hold temporary status and pursue permanent residence at the same time.
• The holder does not automatically lose their status by initiating the green card process.
• Each step has its own requirements and must be followed carefully.

Because the system is complex and each case has its own specifics, it is worth checking updated requirements with USCIS and seeking specialized guidance to navigate the steps safely.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.