Green Card Options for Outstanding Professors and Researchers

1. What are the eligibility requirements for an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


In order to qualify for an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card, the applicant must have at least three years of experience in teaching and/or research in their field, an international recognition for their achievements in their field of expertise, and be offered a tenure or tenure-track teaching or research position at a U.S. university or other institution of higher education. The applicant must also have the necessary academic credentials, such as a doctoral degree, or the equivalent level of achievement.

2. What is the process for obtaining an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


The process for obtaining an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card is as follows:

1. Obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer.

2. Have the employer file Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

3. Along with Form I-140, submit evidence of the professor or researcher’s international recognition as outstanding in his or her field of endeavor, including evidence of at least two years of teaching or research experience in the field, and evidence of receipt of major prizes or awards for excellence in the field, or membership in associations that require outstanding achievement of their members.

4. If the professor or researcher is currently living abroad, obtain an immigrant visa by filing Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Application electronically with the Department of State (DOS).

5. If the professor or researcher is already in the United States, then he or she may file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status with USCIS to obtain a Green Card without having to leave the United States.

3. How long does the Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card process take?


The Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card process can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.

4. Is a job offer required to obtain an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, a job offer is required to obtain an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card.

5. What documents are needed to apply for an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


To apply for an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card, you will need the following documents:

1. Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
2. A current curriculum vitae or resume
3. Evidence of a major, internationally recognized award such as a Nobel Prize or other proof of international recognition in their field
4. Documentation of at least three years of experience in teaching or research in the academic field
5. Evidence that the applicant is entering the United States for a tenure or tenure-track position, or is a permanent researcher position at a university or other institution of higher education
6. Proof of the applicant’s educational qualifications such as diplomas, transcripts, etc.
7. Documentation to demonstrate the alien’s experience as an outstanding professor or researcher such as letters from former employers, copies of published articles or books, etc.
8. Two passport-style photographs
9. Original copies of all documents translated into English
10. A copy of the current visa status (if applicable)

6. Are there any age restrictions for applying for an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, there is an age restriction for applying for an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. The applicant must be at least 40 years old in order to be eligible.

7. Can my spouse and children also receive a Green Card with my Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may be eligible to receive a Green Card based on the outstanding professor or researcher’s status. However, they must file separate Form I-485 applications and meet all eligibility requirements.

8. Will I be able to travel outside the United States with my Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, you may travel outside the United States with your Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card provided that you can present a valid Reentry Permit or Returning Resident Visa to the Customs and Border Protection officer upon reentering the United States.

9. Can I obtain permanent residence with an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, you can obtain permanent residence with an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. This type of green card is granted to those who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in their field of research or teaching. The individual must have received international recognition in their field, and must be able to offer significant contributions to the US.

10. Are there any filing fees associated with obtaining an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, there are filing fees associated with obtaining an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. These fees include filing fees for the Form I-140, the immigrant visa application, biometrics fees, and fees for other associated forms.

11. How often do I need to renew my Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Cards are valid for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the expiration date of the card. You must file for a renewal of your Green Card before it expires.

12. Can I work for any employer in the United States with my Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, you can work for any employer in the United States with your Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. However, it is important to note that the green card is employer-specific, so you will need to apply for a new card if you want to change employers.

13. Are there any special rules or restrictions for holders of an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


There are no special restrictions or rules for holders of an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. However, holders of this type of Green Card must meet certain criteria to maintain their status in the United States, such as maintaining employment in their field of expertise and not engaging in illegal activities. Additionally, these Green Card holders must meet the requirements for naturalization, if they wish to become U.S. citizens.

14. What types of income are eligible for exemption from taxation under the Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Income that is generated solely from teaching, lecturing, or research activities associated with the individual’s area of expertise is eligible for exemption from taxation under the Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. This includes salary, wages, grants, honoraria, royalties, and other forms of remuneration.

15. Are there any special tax benefits or exemptions for holders of the Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


No, there are no special tax benefits or exemptions for holders of Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Cards. However, those with a green card are eligible to take advantage of the same tax deductions and credits as any other U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

16. Is there a limit on how many foreign nationals can be issued an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card each year?


No, there is no limit to the number of foreign nationals who can be issued an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card each year.

17. How will being issued an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card affect my ability to apply for citizenship in the United States?


Being issued an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card makes it easier for an individual to apply for citizenship in the United States because it is considered a permanent resident status. The individual can apply for citizenship after holding the green card for at least five years.

18. Can I change employers while I have an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, you can change employers while you have an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card. However, any new employer must file a new Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, on your behalf.

19. Does having an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card give me any special privileges as a foreign national in the United States?


Yes, having an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card can give you special privileges in the United States. These privileges include the ability to work and live permanently in the United States, to travel in and out of the country without restriction, to access various government benefits, and to apply for citizenship after meeting certain requirements.

20. Are there any restrictions on what type of research I can do while I am in possession of an Outstanding Professors and Researchers Green Card?


Yes, there are restrictions. Generally, you must be employed in a professional capacity and demonstrate that your research is of national interest or of a distinguished reputation to be able to qualify for an OPR GC. Additionally, you must be employed by a U.S. employer in an area of research that is related to your previously established area of expertise. You must also remain employed by the same employer throughout the process of obtaining the OPR GC.