Yes, you may apply for a green card while on Optional Practical Training (OPT), but you must have an eligible path, such as employer sponsorship, family sponsorship, or another qualifying category.

OPT itself does not lead directly to a green card. However, if you qualify under a green card category, such as employment-based sponsorship (like EB-2 or EB-3), marriage to a U.S. citizen, or other eligible petitions, you can begin the process while still on OPT.

Students on OPT often transition to an H-1B visa first before applying for a green card, but it is not mandatory. If you qualify through marriage or another immediate category, you can apply directly without needing H-1B status.