This article explores various pathways for Iranians to immigrate to the United States, detailing the requirements for residency and the means to obtain a US green card. Many questions arise regarding immigration to the United States, such as the possibilities for Iranians to move there, the process of obtaining a green card through education, and the methods to acquire a US passport. Given the high standard of living, extensive citizenship facilities, and other social attractions, the United States remains a popular destination for many Iranians and others worldwide. This article aims to address these questions comprehensively, outlining all methods of immigration and examining their conditions. For additional information and free telephone consultation, you can always contact the experts at Hermes Group.
The United States of America (USA) is a federal republic comprising 50 states, a federal district, five autonomous territories, and several islands. It covers approximately 8.9 million square kilometers, making it the fourth largest country in the world, with a population of 325 million, ranking third globally. The capital is Washington, DC, while New York City is the most populous city. The diverse climate and wildlife make the US one of the 17 most biodiverse countries. It shares borders with Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The Mississippi River, the fourth largest in the world, significantly aids transportation and maritime trade.
The US is a highly developed country with a strong economy based on GDP, wielding considerable influence on political and diplomatic relations globally. This superpower status makes it a highly attractive immigration destination, especially for Iranians.
Immigrating through work is a significant pathway to the United States. Given the various types of work visas available, consulting with experienced consultants and lawyers is crucial before proceeding. The ultimate goal is often to obtain a green card, but the numerous visa types and their specific requirements necessitate expert guidance to determine a clear path forward. To apply for permanent residence, the applicant must reside in the US for 5 to 7 years and can apply for a green card after 10 years. Currently, this visa type is not available for Iranian citizens.
| Visa Type | Description |
|---|---|
| H1 | A one-year short-term work visa for individuals with specialized skills and professional training. |
| H1B | A three-year visa for those with a bachelor’s degree and high grades in specialized skills exams. |
| H2 | For individuals with specialized skills in fields where American specialists are rare. |
| H2B | Similar to H2, but with longer duration based on working conditions and the importance of the individual’s presence. |
| O1 | For individuals with extraordinary skills in specific fields or significant achievements in science, art, business, or sports (e.g., Olympic level). |
| J1 | For workforce exchange or training, contingent on a memorandum of understanding between the US and the applicant's home country. |
Obtaining a US visa is more challenging for Iranian citizens compared to others, with student visas currently being the primary entry method. Proving intent to return to Iran post-study is crucial, requiring expert guidance for success. Essential steps include passing the SAT or ACT exams, depending on the university and state requirements.
| Scholarship Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Hubert Humphrey Scholarship | Short-term (less than a year) scholarship for internationally active professionals and researchers. |
| Fulbright Scholarship | For undergraduate courses in engineering, arts, and specializations like aerospace, with stricter rules for Iranians. |
| Undergraduate Scholarships | Typically four years in duration, with scholarships around $2,000. |
| Postgraduate Scholarships | Average duration of two years, with some fields like art taking less time and scholarships around $3,000. |
| PhD Scholarships | More challenging to obtain, requiring high academic achievement and publications, with opportunities for work permits post-graduation. |
Investment-based immigration requires obtaining an EB-5 visa, created by the US Congress in 1990 to stimulate economic growth through job creation and foreign investment. The EB-5 program requires a minimum investment in a new commercial enterprise that creates at least ten full-time jobs for US workers. The minimum investment is $1 million for urban areas and $500,000 for rural or high-unemployment areas.
If the visa is approved, the investor and their family receive two-year conditional permanent residency, after which they can apply for a green card. Although currently blocked for Iranians, Hermes Group can assist through indirect means for capitalists.
The US follows the jus soli (right of soil) principle for citizenship, meaning any child born in the US is a citizen regardless of parental nationality. This does not confer any immediate citizenship benefits to the parents, who may apply for citizenship after 15 years.
Marrying a US citizen allows for immigration through the K1 (Fiancé) visa, valid for 90 days. The process involves several steps:
The marriage must occur within 90 days, failing which the applicant must leave the US. Children under 21 can apply for a K2 visa. Temporary and long-term work permits can be obtained using Forms I-765 and I-485, respectively. Given the complexity of this process, consulting experienced immigration attorneys is recommended.
Hermes Group does not offer asylum services, and this section is for informational purposes only. Asylum may be declared under the Geneva Conventions if there is a well-founded fear of persecution or death due to political reasons, religious affiliation, racial or gender discrimination. However, the US has stringent rules against asylum seekers, especially those entering illegally. Hermes Group advises against using this risky method for immigration.
Artists and individuals with extraordinary abilities can immigrate through O and P type visas, categorized as follows:
| Visa Type | Description |
|---|---|
| O1 | For individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, art, education, business, or athletics, or with significant achievements in film or television. |
| O2 | For those assisting O1 visa holders with specific events or performances. |
| O3 | For spouses or children of O1 and O2 visa holders. |
| P1 | For internationally recognized artists and athletes applying for visas for a specific tour. |
| P2 | For artists and athletes participating in an inter-organizational exchange program. |
| P3 | For groups of artists and musicians performing or teaching their national culture in the US. |
These visas are renewable as long as the individual continues working in their field and can lead to a green card application. Currently, these visas are not available for Iranians.
Understanding the cost of living is crucial for potential immigrants. Costs vary by state and city. Below are some average costs in Los Angeles:
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Meal at a cheap restaurant | $15 |
| 1 liter of milk | $1 |
| 500 grams of fresh bread | $2.93 |
| 1 kilo of rice | $3.03 |
| 12 eggs | $3.44 |
| 1 kilo of local cheese | $11 |
| 1 kilo of chicken fillet | $11.69 |
| 1 kilo of red meat | $13.69 |
| 1 kilo of apples | $4.86 |
| 1 kilo of potatoes | $2.72 |
| 1 kilo of onions | $2.04 |
| 1.5 liters of water | $2.13 |
| 1 kilo of bananas | $2.05 |
| 1 kilo of tomatoes | $3.44 |
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| One-way local transport ticket | $1.75 |
| Taxi fare start | $3.50 |
| Taxi per kilometer | $2.18 |
| 1 liter of gasoline | $1.03 |
| Toyota Corolla or equivalent new car | $21,387.33 |
| Basic monthly expenses for an 85-square-meter house | $127.60 |
| Unlimited internet 60 MB per second | $47.63 |
| Description | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Price per square meter of apartment in city center | $8,060.30 |
| Price per square meter of apartment outside center | $3,061.69 |
| Apartment for rent (1 bedroom) in downtown | $2,420.42 |
| Apartment for rent (1 bedroom) outside center | $1,676 |
| Description | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Monthly sports club fee for one adult | $41.19 |
| Cinema ticket | $15 |
| Private preschool fee for one child per month | $1,057.14 |
| One pair of Nike shoes | $99.82 |
| One pair of leather men's shoes | $101.75 |
| Jeans | $50.55 |
In conclusion, moving to the United States involves careful planning, understanding of various immigration pathways, and an awareness of the living costs. Whether through work, education, investment, marriage, or artistic achievement, each pathway has its specific requirements and challenges. For personalized guidance and consultation, contacting experienced immigration consultants like Hermes Group can significantly ease the process.