Wondering how to begin a career in video game development? Earning your degree in the United States—the largest market in the world for video game development—is a great place to start! In this article, we’ll examine the F-1 visa application process, then explore your options for transitioning from an F-1 visa to a Green Card (lawful permanent residency).
F-1 Visa Application Process
The F-1 student visa is one of the most popular visa options offered by the United States. It allows foreign-born individuals to reap the benefits of studying at a U.S. college or university, many of which offer stellar video game development degree programs. To be eligible for F-1 status, you must first be accepted into a college or university to obtain the paperwork that verifies your eligibility for an academic program in the United States.
After being accepted into an academic program at an accredited and Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved institution, you must complete Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. This questionnaire will ask you to provide specific information that helps the U.S. embassy or consulate to verify your eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.
How to Transition from an F-1 Visa to a Green Card
After earning your degree in video game development, you may want to extend your stay to work in the lucrative U.S. gaming market. F-1 students may extend their stay with options such as Optional Practical Training (OPT), but this is temporary work authorization.
To obtain lawful permanent residency, F-1 students have two main options:
- Marry a U.S. citizen with whom they’ve been in a genuine, romantic relationship with during the course of their studies. Fraudulent Green Card marriages do not qualify; U.S. immigration will detect the fraudulent nature of the relationship and deny your application.
- Obtain a Green Card in an Immediate Relative category through sponsorship from a close family member who is a U.S. citizen.
Please be mindful that F-1 students may not take action against their F-1 status—such as applying for a Green Card—within 90 days of their last entry into the United States. This is referred to as the 90-Day Rule.
To learn more about getting an F-1 visa and transitioning to a Green Card for a U.S.-based career in video game development, navigate to the guides linked above.
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