I am currently on a HIB with my company, they've agree to apply for a green card for me and cover all expenses, but want me to commit a minimum of 8yrs to the company... is there a way I could apply for the green card myself (cover the cost) not through the company but use the company as my sponsor so as to avoid the tie in of 8yrs that my company is setting. How long does it take to get the green card?