How to move to the USA during a pandemic: choosing a visa option

Many Russians want to go to the United States to live, study or create their own business. However, during a pandemic this can be challenging due to many additional conditions and factors. Therefore, it is better to familiarize yourself in advance with the types of visas that will allow you to move to the US.

Available visa options

Depending on the purpose for which a person wants to go to the States, he can choose one of the available visas. Visa types such as F and M are great for students. After graduation, they will be able to officially get a job in the United States, as well as have a chance to obtain citizenship in the future. It should be noted that studying in the US is quite expensive, so you should choose those universities where a scholarship or the opportunity to apply for a grant is provided. Another feature is that in the USA the success of an individual student is rather carefully evaluated. The better he studies, the more chances he will have of finding a worthwhile job, as well as staying in the country for permanent residence.

During the pandemic conditions changed a bit, since many students switched to remote education. However it is still possible to obtain an F-1 visa to relocate to the States, suitable for academic study and attending language schools.

Investors and entrepreneurs wishing to contribute to the country's economy should choose an EB-5 visa, or use the alternative - E-2 / EB-1. When obtaining these types of visas one can count on getting a residence permit and opportunities for the development of business in America.

However, do not forget that in this case a number of mandatory conditions apply. For example, entrepreneurs are required to invest at least $ 1 million in their business to provide jobs for local residents. It is also important to pay taxes on time.

Representatives of other fields of activity should choose the following visa options:

• O-1A and EB-1A visas are suitable for science and education workers. Those who travel to the United States for the first time are usually issued an O-1A visa. It is not an immigrant visa and is provided only for the duration of a certain activity. However, its owners can claim the priority right to receive an EB-1A and a green card, which will make it possible to move to the US for permanent residence.
• Category E visas are suitable for specialists in various fields. Such visas make it possible to obtain a green card if you have a work permit from government agencies. L-1A variants are also provided for temporary work.

All specified visas are available during the quarantine period. In addition to that, the government also works to develop programs to speed up the process of obtaining these visas.

Getting a green card

A Green Card Lottery is being carried out in the US every year, and the winners of this lottery can permanently move to the States without additional conditions. In addition to the fact that their residence will be absolutely legal, after 5 years they can apply for citizenship. The lottery usually starts in October and ends in the spring. To participate, a simple registration on the official website of the lottery is enough.