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I am on F-1/J-1 visa (student visa). Can I apply for green card (Permanent Residency)?

April 26, 2017F-1 green card J-1 PERMANENT residency student Visa

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I am on F-1/J-1 visa (student visa). Can I apply for green card (Permanent Residency)?

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There is no law that prohibits an F-1, J-1, F-2, or J-2 visa holder from applying for a green card directly. But as a practical matter it takes a long time to obtain a green card in most cases. Therefore, even if you begin your green card process while you are on F or J status you will probably be required to convert to H-1 due to lack of time. Conversion to H-1 during green card pendency is no problem.