{"id":77454,"date":"2026-04-13T11:39:53","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T11:39:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/?p=77454"},"modified":"2026-04-13T12:02:30","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T12:02:30","slug":"how-to-settle-in-usa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Settle in USA from India: Visa Pathways, Costs, and Green Card Timeline for 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\"><\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\">13<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">min read<\/span><\/span>\n<div class=\"quick-read-box\">\n\n  <div class=\"qr-header\">\n    <span style=\"font-size:18px;\">\u26a1<\/span>\n    <h3 class=\"qr-title\">Quick Read<\/h3>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <ul>\n    <li>Indian nationals on EB-2 employment green cards currently wait 12+ years due to the 7% per-country cap.<\/li>\n\n    <li>The F-1 to OPT to H-1B route gives STEM graduates up to 36 months of authorized work in the USA.<\/li>\n\n    <li> Setting up basics after arrival (SSN, bank account, driving license) typically takes 30\u201360 days. <\/li>\n\n    <li> Monthly living costs range from $1,500 (Rs.1,39,905) in smaller cities to $4,000 (Rs.3,73,080) in metro areas. <\/li>\n\n  <\/ul>\n\n  <div class=\"qr-footer\">\n    \ud83d\udc49 Best for: Indian students and families planning long-term settlement in the USA in 2026.\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Can_I_Settle_in_USA_from_India_The_3_Visa_Pathways_Explained\"><\/span><strong>How Can I Settle in USA from India? The 3 Visa Pathways Explained<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When people ask how to settle in USA, the answer almost always comes down to one of three routes.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_68_1 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #192a3d;color:#192a3d\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #192a3d;color:#192a3d\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#How_Can_I_Settle_in_USA_from_India_The_3_Visa_Pathways_Explained\" title=\"How Can I Settle in USA from India? The 3 Visa Pathways Explained\">How Can I Settle in USA from India? The 3 Visa Pathways Explained<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#How_to_Settle_in_USA_Through_the_F-1_Visa\" title=\"How to Settle in USA Through the F-1 Visa?\">How to Settle in USA Through the F-1 Visa?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#Understanding_the_Green_Card_Backlog_for_Indians_EB-2_EB-3_and_EB-2_NIW\" title=\"Understanding the Green Card Backlog for Indians: EB-2, EB-3, and EB-2 NIW\">Understanding the Green Card Backlog for Indians: EB-2, EB-3, and EB-2 NIW<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#What_It_Costs_to_Settle_in_the_USA_from_India\" title=\"What It Costs to Settle in the USA from India?\">What It Costs to Settle in the USA from India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#Best_Cities_in_USA_to_Settle_for_Indian_Students_and_Professionals\" title=\"Best Cities in USA to Settle for Indian Students and Professionals\">Best Cities in USA to Settle for Indian Students and Professionals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#Your_First_90_Days_After_Arriving_in_the_USA\" title=\"Your First 90 Days After Arriving in the USA\">Your First 90 Days After Arriving in the USA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#Month-by-Month_Plan_to_Settle_in_USA_from_India\" title=\"Month-by-Month Plan to Settle in USA from India\">Month-by-Month Plan to Settle in USA from India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#How_Can_I_Settle_in_USA_Decision_Framework\" title=\"How Can I Settle in USA? Decision Framework&nbsp;\">How Can I Settle in USA? Decision Framework&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#What_to_Do_When_Your_US_Settlement_Plan_Hits_a_Setback\" title=\"What to Do When Your US Settlement Plan Hits a Setback?\">What to Do When Your US Settlement Plan Hits a Setback?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#How_to_Get_Settled_in_USA_Three_Steps_to_Take_Right_Now\" title=\"How to Get Settled in USA: Three Steps to Take Right Now\">How to Get Settled in USA: Three Steps to Take Right Now<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-settle-in-usa\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>Indian nationals face one disadvantage that applicants from most other countries do not: the <strong>7% per-country cap<\/strong> on annual employment-based green cards. According to the<a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/legal\/visa-law0\/visa-bulletin.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> USCIS Visa Bulletin<\/a>, India consistently exhausts this limit years in advance. This is the most important fact to understand before deciding how to get settled in USA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Pathway<\/strong><\/th><th><br><strong>Typical Timeline (Indians)<\/strong><\/th><th><br><strong>Employer Sponsor Needed<\/strong><\/th><th><br><strong>Green Card Category<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Approx. Cost<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Study (F-1 to OPT to H-1B to GC)<\/td><td>10\u201318 years total<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>EB-2 or EB-3<\/td><td>$80,000\u2013$1,50,000 (Rs.74.6L\u2013Rs.1.4 Cr)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Direct Work Visa (H-1B to GC)<\/td><td>12\u201320 years total<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>EB-2 or EB-3<\/td><td>$5,000\u2013$30,000 (Rs.4.7L\u2013Rs.28L)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Family Sponsorship (spouse of US citizen)<\/td><td>1\u20133 years<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>IR-1\/CR-1 or F-2A<\/td><td>$2,000\u2013$8,000 (Rs.1.9L\u2013Rs.7.5L)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Study pathway costs include tuition, living, and visa fees for the full duration. The work-visa range covers immigration-related fees only, not living costs.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>Exchange rate used:<\/strong> $1 = Rs.93.27. Verify the current rate before finalizing your budget.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still deciding between the USA and Canada? Read our<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/usa-vs-canada-which-country-is-better-for-indian-students\"> USA vs Canada comparison for Indian students<\/a> before committing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Settle_in_USA_Through_the_F-1_Visa\"><\/span><strong>How to Settle in USA Through the F-1 Visa?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For most Indian students graduating from a B.Tech, B.Sc., or equivalent program, the<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-apply-for-f1-visa-usa\"> F-1 student visa<\/a> is the starting point. Here is how the full sequence works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 1: Enter the USA on F-1 and Complete Your STEM Degree<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You enter the USA as a full-time student. After graduating, you apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which gives you <strong>12 months<\/strong> of work authorization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2: Apply for the STEM OPT Extension (24 Months, Total 36 Months)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your degree is in a STEM field (engineering, computer science, data science, biology, and many others), you can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. According to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/students-and-exchange-visitors\/optional-practical-training-extension-for-stem-students-stem-opt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> USCIS<\/a>, the extension brings your total OPT period to <strong>36 months<\/strong>. This window is when your employer needs to file your H-1B petition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 3: Register for the H-1B Lottery to Stay and Settle in USA Long-Term<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The H-1B lottery runs every March for an October 1 start date. According to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/temporary-workers\/h-1b-specialty-occupations\/h-1b-electronic-registration-process\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> USCIS FY2026 cap data<\/a>, approximately 339,000 unique beneficiaries competed for 85,000 slots. The overall selection rate for FY2025 was approximately <strong>29% after two rounds<\/strong>, per<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fragomen.com\/insights\/united-states-uscis-releases-selection-statistics-for-second-fy-2025-h-1b-cap-lottery.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Fragomen&#8217;s analysis<\/a>. Roughly 7 out of 10 candidates are not selected in any given year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4: File Form I-140 to Lock In Your Green Card Priority Date<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you hold an H-1B, your employer can file Form I-140 (immigrant petition). The day USCIS receives this petition becomes your <strong>priority date,<\/strong> your permanent place in the green card queue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> The most common mistake Indian F-1 students make is not asking their employer about I-140 filing the moment they get H-1B approval. Employers are not required to file immediately. Every month you delay is a month added to an already long backlog. Ask about it directly in your first year on H-1B, not after two or three years.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For affordable US university options to start this pathway, browse<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/best-public-universities-in-usa-top-list\"> public universities in the USA<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_Green_Card_Backlog_for_Indians_EB-2_EB-3_and_EB-2_NIW\"><\/span><strong>Understanding the Green Card Backlog for Indians: EB-2, EB-3, and EB-2 NIW<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most &#8220;How can I settle in the USA?&#8221; searches are really asking, &#8220;How long does a green card actually take?&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Backlog Reality<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The US Department of State Visa Bulletin for April 2026 currently lists the <strong>EB-2 India Final Action Date as July 15, 2014.<\/strong> Someone who filed their I-140 in 2014 is only now approaching eligibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a 2025 or 2026 filer,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.beyondborderglobal.com\/resources\/eb2-current-priority-date-india-2025-wait-times-updates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Beyond Border Global&#8217;s analysis<\/a> estimates a wait of well over a decade. The cause: India generates the highest volume of EB-2 and EB-3 petitions globally, while being limited to 7% of annual green cards. Approximately <strong>356,000 Indian-origin approved I-140 petitions<\/strong> are currently in the queue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What About EB-2 NIW?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) lets you self-petition without employer sponsorship. It is useful for researchers, academics, and entrepreneurs. But it does <strong>not<\/strong> create a faster or separate queue. Once your I-140 is approved under NIW, your priority date joins the same EB-2 India line as everyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Green Card Categories at a Glance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Category<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Who Qualifies<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>India Wait (2026)<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Employer Sponsor<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>EB-1A<\/td><td>Extraordinary ability (research, arts, business)<\/td><td>2\u20134 years<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>EB-1B<\/td><td>Outstanding researchers and professors<\/td><td>2\u20134 years<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>EB-2<\/td><td>Advanced-degree professionals<\/td><td>12\u201315+ years (recent filers)<\/td><td>Yes (or NIW)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>EB-3<\/td><td>Bachelor&#8217;s degree \/ skilled workers<\/td><td>10\u201312+ years<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>IR-1\/CR-1<\/td><td>Spouse of US citizen<\/td><td>1\u20132 years<\/td><td>No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> File your I-140 as early as your employer will allow, even if your priority date is many years from becoming current. The date is locked in on the day USCIS receives the petition. This is the single most time-sensitive action in the entire green card process.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the full green card process, read our guide on<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/pr-for-us-how-to-a-get-green-card\"> how to get PR in the USA from India<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_It_Costs_to_Settle_in_the_USA_from_India\"><\/span><strong>What It Costs to Settle in the USA from India<\/strong>?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Study Pathway Costs (F-1 to Green Card)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Item<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>USD<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>INR<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>F-1<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/sevis-fees-for-usa-and-how-to-pay\/\"> SEVIS fee<\/a> (I-901)<\/td><td>$350<\/td><td>Rs.32,645<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>DS-160 visa application fee<\/td><td>$185<\/td><td>Rs.17,255<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>US university tuition per year (public)<\/td><td>$15,000\u2013$35,000<\/td><td>Rs.14L\u2013Rs.32.7L<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Living costs per year (mid-size city)<\/td><td>$18,000\u2013$24,000<\/td><td>Rs.16.8L\u2013Rs.22.4L<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>OPT application fee (I-765)<\/td><td>$410<\/td><td>Rs.38,241<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>H-1B filing fee (typically employer-paid)<\/td><td>$0\u2013$5,000<\/td><td>Rs.0\u2013Rs.4.66L<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Post-Arrival Settlement Costs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Item<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>USD<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>INR<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>First month&#8217;s rent + deposit (1BHK, mid-size city)<\/td><td>$2,000\u2013$4,000<\/td><td>Rs.1.87L\u2013Rs.3.73L<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Health insurance per month (employer plan)<\/td><td>$200\u2013$500<\/td><td>Rs.18,654\u2013Rs.46,635<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>International flight (India to USA)<\/td><td>$700\u2013$1,200<\/td><td>Rs.65,289\u2013Rs.1,11,924<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Shipping personal items<\/td><td>$1,000\u2013$3,000<\/td><td>Rs.93,270\u2013Rs.2,79,810<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Used car (essential in most US cities)<\/td><td>$8,000\u2013$15,000<\/td><td>Rs.7.46L\u2013Rs.13.99L<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Monthly costs, family of two (mid-size city)<\/td><td>$3,000\u2013$4,500<\/td><td>Rs.2.79L\u2013Rs.4.20L<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Monthly costs, family of two (New York\/SF)<\/td><td>$5,000\u2013$7,000<\/td><td>Rs.4.66L\u2013Rs.6.53L<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>All costs below are in USD (INR in brackets).<strong> Exchange rate used:<\/strong> $1 = Rs.93.27. Verify the current rate before finalizing your budget.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For help with the DS-160 form, see our<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/how-to-fill-ds-160-form-sample\"> complete DS-160 guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Documents Required to Settle in USA from India via the Study Route<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use this table to track what you need at each stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Document<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>India-Specific Detail<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Required For<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Valid Indian Passport<\/td><td>Minimum 6 months&#8217; validity beyond intended stay<\/td><td>All visa applications<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mark sheets (10th, 12th, Degree)<\/td><td>Attested copies; provisional certificate accepted if final degree not yet issued<\/td><td>F-1 visa, employment verification<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Degree \/ Provisional Certificate<\/td><td>University seal required; WES evaluation often needed for US recognition<\/td><td>Job applications, I-140 petition<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bank statements (6 months)<\/td><td>Indian bank statements accepted; RBI-approved forex limits apply<\/td><td>F-1 and H-1B applications<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Offer letter from US employer<\/td><td>LCA (Labour Condition Application) filed by employer before H-1B petition<\/td><td>H-1B<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>PAN card<\/td><td>Required for FBAR reporting if Indian accounts exceed $10,000<\/td><td>FBAR filing as US resident<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Police Clearance Certificate<\/td><td>Issued by local police station or Passport Seva Kendra<\/td><td>Green card application<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Birth Certificate<\/td><td>English translation required<\/td><td>Green card, citizenship<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Marriage Certificate (if applicable)<\/td><td>English translation required<\/td><td>Dependent visa, family-based GC<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Cities_in_USA_to_Settle_for_Indian_Students_and_Professionals\"><\/span><strong>Best Cities in USA to Settle for Indian Students and Professionals<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>According to<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/career-opportunities-in-the-usa-for-indian-students\"> career opportunities data for Indian students in the USA<\/a>, technology, healthcare, and finance are the top sectors for Indian professionals. Here is how major metros compare:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>City<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Key Sectors<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Monthly Rent (1BHK)<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Indian Community<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>New Jersey (Edison\/Jersey City)<\/td><td>Finance, pharma, proximity to NYC<\/td><td>$2,000\u2013$3,000 (Rs.1.87L\u2013Rs.2.80L)<\/td><td>Very large<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>San Jose \/ San Francisco, CA<\/td><td>Tech (FAANG companies)<\/td><td>$2,500\u2013$3,500 (Rs.2.33L\u2013Rs.3.26L)<\/td><td>Very large<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dallas \/ Houston, TX<\/td><td>Tech, energy, healthcare; no state income tax<\/td><td>$1,200\u2013$1,800 (Rs.1.12L\u2013Rs.1.68L)<\/td><td>Large<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Raleigh \/ Charlotte, NC<\/td><td>Tech, banking; lower cost<\/td><td>$1,000\u2013$1,500 (Rs.93,270\u2013Rs.1.40L)<\/td><td>Growing<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chicago, IL<\/td><td>Finance, consulting, healthcare<\/td><td>$1,500\u2013$2,200 (Rs.1.40L\u2013Rs.2.05L)<\/td><td>Large<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> Texas has become the most common destination for Indian families choosing to settle in USA on a budget. No state income tax, a large Indian diaspora, and strong tech and healthcare hiring make Dallas and Houston practical starting points. California offers more opportunities, but the cost difference is significant. Run the numbers before deciding.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a full state-by-state comparison, see our<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/list-of-top-us-states-to-live-cost-income-safety-quality-of-life\"> best US states to live in guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving with a spouse or children? Review the<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/dependent-visa-usa-different-types-requirements-and-how-to-apply\"> dependent visa USA guide<\/a> before applying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_First_90_Days_After_Arriving_in_the_USA\"><\/span><strong>Your First 90 Days After Arriving in the USA<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing how to settle in USA on paper is one thing. The first two to three months after landing are where most Indian families struggle. Here is what to do, week by week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Week 1-2: SSN Application and Housing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Social Security Number (SSN)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apply no earlier than 10 days after arrival. Per the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ssa.gov\/pubs\/EN-05-10096.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Social Security Administration<\/a>, applying before 10 days risks the agency being unable to verify your entry with DHS. Bring your passport, visa, I-94 arrival record, and EAD if applicable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Rental housing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most US landlords require a credit history, which you will not have as a new arrival. Offer 2\u20133 months of rent upfront and bring an Indian bank statement showing sufficient funds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Week 2-4: Bank Account and SIM Card<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bank account<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Open one using your passport, visa, and US address. Per<a href=\"https:\/\/www.boundless.com\/blog\/us-banking-system-new-immigrants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Boundless Immigration<\/a>, banks including Chase and Bank of America allow accounts without an SSN using a foreign passport or ITIN.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>SIM card<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get a prepaid SIM from T-Mobile or AT&amp;T on arrival day. You will need a US number for almost every piece of paperwork in your first month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Month 2: Driving License and Address Update<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Each US state has its own rules for converting a foreign license. Most require a written test at minimum.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you move after arriving, file <strong>Form AR-11<\/strong> with USCIS within 10 days. As confirmed by<a href=\"https:\/\/peterchu.com\/blogs\/medium-feed\/what-to-do-after-entering-us-with-immigrant-visa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Peter Chu&#8217;s immigration firm<\/a>, permanent residents are legally required to notify USCIS of any address change within 10 days.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Month 3: India-Side Financial Tasks<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Notify your Indian bank of your NRI status. Your resident savings account must be converted to an <strong>NRO<\/strong> or <strong>NRE<\/strong> account under RBI guidelines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your total Indian financial accounts exceed $10,000 at any point during the year, you must file an <strong>FBAR (FinCEN Form 114)<\/strong> annually, per<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship\/civic-assimilation\/settling-in-the-us\/money-and-finance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> USCIS guidance<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Month-by-Month_Plan_to_Settle_in_USA_from_India\"><\/span><strong>Month-by-Month Plan to Settle in USA from India<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Month<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Action<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>January\u2013February<\/td><td>Finalize US university applications for Fall; gather mark sheets and provisional certificate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>March\u2013April<\/td><td>Appear for F-1 visa interview; pay I-901 SEVIS fee<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>May\u2013June<\/td><td>Graduate from Indian college; collect original degree and transcripts<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>July\u2013August<\/td><td>Depart for USA; arrive at least 30 days before semester starts.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>September<\/td><td>Apply for SSN, open bank account, buy SIM; apply for campus employment or CPT if eligible<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>October\u2013November<\/td><td>Begin employer networking for H-1B sponsorship (lottery opens the following March)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>December<\/td><td>Review OPT timeline; begin STEM OPT extension application if within 90 days of OPT expiry<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Can_I_Settle_in_USA_Decision_Framework\"><\/span><strong>How Can I Settle in USA? Decision Framework&nbsp;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is a practical guide on how you can settle in USA based on where you are right now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Scenario 1: Final-year B.Tech. or B.Sc. student graduating June 2026<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Apply to a STEM master&#8217;s program in the USA for Fall 2026. This gives you 36 months of OPT (12 standard + 24-month STEM extension), the longest runway available to secure an H-1B before needing to leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Focus on Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, and other STEM-designated fields. Since H-1B selection is not guaranteed in any single year, you need to be on OPT for up to three registration cycles to have a reasonable statistical chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Scenario 2: IT or engineering professional in India, 4\u20135 years of experience<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your current employer has a US office, explore an <strong>L-1B intra-company transfer<\/strong> visa. This bypasses the H-1B lottery entirely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, look for US employers that are cap-exempt (universities, nonprofit research organizations, and government-affiliated labs), which can file H-1B petitions at any time of year. Direct H-1B sponsorship through a new US employer requires lottery selection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Scenario 3: Already on H-1B, planning long-term family settlement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your first action this week: ask HR whether your employer has filed Form I-140. Lock in your priority date as early as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While waiting, apply for <strong>H-4 dependent status<\/strong> for your spouse so they can work on an H-4 EAD. If your spouse has advanced STEM qualifications, consider whether they qualify for an independent EB-2 NIW petition; this option gives your family two separate priority dates in the queue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Do_When_Your_US_Settlement_Plan_Hits_a_Setback\"><\/span><strong>What to Do When Your US Settlement Plan Hits a Setback?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Every stage of settling in USA has a failure point. Here is what to do at each one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. H-1B Lottery Not Selected<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This scenario happens to roughly 7 in 10 applicants every year. Your options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Stay on STEM OPT and re-enter the lottery the following year<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Target <strong>cap-exempt employers<\/strong> (universities, nonprofit labs, qualifying government research institutions) that can file H-1B petitions year-round without lottery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply for an <strong>O-1A visa<\/strong> for extraordinary ability if your profile qualifies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pursue an <strong>L-1 visa<\/strong> if your Indian employer has a US entity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Counselor insight:<\/em><\/strong><em> Cap-exempt H-1B employers are the most underused option by Indian students. Most focus entirely on the lottery, depending on a roughly 29% chance each March. At any time of year, universities and nonprofit research institutes can hire, and many roles remain unadvertised. If you are in a research or technical role, begin exploring this route before your final OPT year.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. OPT Gap or Expiry Before H-1B Starts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your OPT expires before your H-1B effective date (October 1), you must stop working during the gap. You can remain in the USA in F-1 status. If your STEM OPT extension was filed on time and is pending, you are automatically covered for <strong>180 days<\/strong>, per<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/working-in-the-united-states\/students-and-exchange-visitors\/optional-practical-training-opt-for-f-1-students\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> USCIS<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. 221(g) Administrative Processing on F-1 Visa<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A 221(g) slip means pending, not rejected. Recent Indian F-1 applicants have faced holds for not disclosing social media handles on the DS-160 form, as reported by Business Standard. Disclose all handles accurately and completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Review the<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/usa-study-visa-usa-student-visa-requirements-for-indian-students\"> US student visa requirements<\/a> to prepare your documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. I-140 Denial<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Appeal through USCIS&#8217;s Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or file a Motion to Reopen. Address each point in the denial notice with supporting documentation. Consult an immigration attorney before responding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For context on visa rejections, see our<a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/us-visa-rejection-rate-and-reasons\"> US visa rejection rate guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Get_Settled_in_USA_Three_Steps_to_Take_Right_Now\"><\/span><strong>How to Get Settled in USA: Three Steps to Take Right Now<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whichever route you are on, these three actions matter most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong>If you are currently on H-1B:<\/strong> Contact your HR or immigration team today and ask whether your employer has filed or plans to file Form I-140. Your priority date is set the day USCIS receives the petition. Every month of delay matters over a decade-long backlog.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you are a student planning the F-1 route:<\/strong> Confirm whether your target master&#8217;s program is on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. A non-STEM program limits your OPT to 12 months and reduces your H-1B lottery chances to a single attempt.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For everyone:<\/strong> Identify at least two cap-exempt employers (universities, nonprofit research organizations) in your target sector before your first H-1B lottery registration. These employers can hire on H-1B at any point in the year, with no lottery required.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Verified by:<\/strong> LeapScholar&#8217;s USA counseling team, with hands-on experience guiding Indian students through F-1 visa applications, OPT transitions, and H-1B sponsorship processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have questions about your specific situation? <a href=\"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/webflow_progressive_form?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=in-content-cta&amp;utm_campaign=counselling\">Book a free session with a LeapScholar counselor<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<ul class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078379254\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How long does it take to settle in the USA from India?<\/strong><\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The study route takes 15-25+ years from F-1 visa to Green Card, primarily because of the EB-2\/EB-3 India backlog under the per-country cap. The immediate relative family route through a US citizen spouse typically takes 1-3 years. There is no fast track for employment-based settlement for Indian nationals under current quota structures.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078393758\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What is the easiest way for an Indian to settle in the USA?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The fastest available route is the immediate relative family route if you have a US citizen spouse, parent, or child. For those wondering how they can settle in USA without family ties in the US, completing a STEM MS degree and securing H-1B sponsorship from a large employer with an established immigration department gives the most reliable long-term path.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078410578\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can I settle in the USA on an F-1 student visa?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>An F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for study; it does not itself lead to permanent residency. After graduation, you transition to OPT, then to H-1B, and from there, your employer can sponsor a Green Card. The F-1 is step one of a process that typically spans 15+ years for Indian nationals.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078426846\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What documents do I need to settle in the USA from India?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>For the F-1 stage: I-20, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS receipt, Class 12 mark sheets, provisional certificate or degree, and INR bank statements. For H-1B: I-797 approval notice and employer offer letter. For I-485: I-140 approval, current Visa Bulletin priority date, Form I-693 medical exam, birth certificate, passport copies, and police clearance from India.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078443759\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What happens if my H-1B lottery application is not selected?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>You remain on OPT status and can try the lottery again the following April. Your work authorization is not affected. Between attempts, identify cap-exempt employers (universities, national labs, nonprofit hospitals) who can file an H-1B petition at any time outside the lottery.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078461906\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How long is the EB-2 Green Card wait for Indian nationals in 2026?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>As of the April 2026 Visa Bulletin, the Final Action Date for EB-2 India is approximately September 2013. A new I-140 filer in 2026 should plan for a wait well over a decade under current per-country cap conditions. Filing the I-140 as early as possible in your H-1B employment is the single most important action you can take.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078514058\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can I settle in the USA without a job offer?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, through EB-1A (extraordinary ability) or EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver), both of which allow self-petition. Neither route bypasses the India queue, however. The family-based immediate relative route through a US citizen also requires no job offer and has no annual cap.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078550014\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What does it cost to settle in USA from India?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The study route costs $80,000-$200,000+ (Rs.74.6L-Rs.1.87Cr+) spread over 15-25 years. First-year expenses of $30,000-$70,000 (Rs.27.98L-Rs.65.29L) are the largest single outlay. The direct work route involves out-of-pocket fees of $10,000-$20,000 (Rs.93,270-Rs.1.87L), as most employer-stage costs are covered by the employer. The immediate relative family route costs the least, around $1,500-$5,000 (Rs.1.40L-Rs.4.66L) in government fees.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078568676\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Which is the best city to settle in USA for Indians?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>For technology professionals, the Bay Area and Seattle offer the highest salaries and H-1B sponsor networks. Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin offer lower costs with strong IT employment. The best city is also the one where your sponsoring employer is headquartered, since your H-1B and Green Card sponsorship ties you to that company for years.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"faq-question-1776078599674\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h5 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Does EB-2 NIW help Indian applicants avoid the Green Card queue?<\/strong> <\/h5>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No. EB-2 NIW removes the employer and PERM requirement, which is a meaningful benefit. But it does not give you a faster priority date. You still join the EB-2 India queue, which currently has a Final Action Date of approximately September 2013. NIW is most useful for researchers and academics who need to self-petition, not as a queue bypass for Indian applicants.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\"><\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\">13<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">min read<\/span><\/span> \u26a1 Quick Read Indian nationals on EB-2 employment green cards currently wait 12+ years due to the 7% per-country cap. The F-1 to OPT to H-1B route gives STEM graduates up to 36 months of authorized work in the USA. Setting up basics after arrival (SSN, bank account, driving license) typically takes 30\u201360 days. Monthly [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":69,"featured_media":77461,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/77454"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/69"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=77454"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/77454\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":77459,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/77454\/revisions\/77459"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/77461"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=77454"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=77454"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/leapscholar.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=77454"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}