The United States offers various types of visas for individuals who want to enter the country for temporary or permanent purposes. These visas are divided into two categories: immigrant and non-immigrant visas. Although both visas allow individuals to enter the United States, there are significant differences between them.
The US Immigrant Visa
An immigrant visa is a type of visa that allows an individual to enter the United States with the intention of becoming a permanent resident. In other words, an immigrant visa is for those who plan to reside in the United States permanently. Immigrant visas are issued to individuals who are sponsored by a US citizen or a permanent resident or those who are eligible to self-sponsor under specific categories such as employment or investment. Some common examples of immigrant visas are family-sponsored visas, employment-based visas, and diversity visas.
One of the primary requirements for obtaining an immigrant visa is that the applicant must have a qualifying relationship with the sponsor, or they must meet the eligibility criteria for a self-sponsored visa. In addition, the applicant must go through a rigorous application process, which includes submitting a petition, going through a medical examination, attending an interview, and paying a fee. Immigrant visa holders will receive their green card upon entrance to the United States and will be right away be authorized to work and study in the United States without restriction, travel outside the country for up to 6 months at a time, and apply for US citizenship after meeting certain requirements.
The US Non-Immigrant Visa
A non-immigrant visa is a type of visa that allows an individual to enter the United States temporarily for a specific purpose. In other words, a non-immigrant visa is for those who plan to reside in the United States for a temporary period, usually for work, study, tourist or business purposes. Some common examples of non-immigrant visas are tourist visas, student visas, E-2 investor visa and work visas.
Unlike immigrant visas, non-immigrant visas do not provide a path to permanent residency or US citizenship. However, non-immigrant visa holders may be authorized to work and study in the United States for a limited time, depending on the type of visa they hold. For example, a student visa holder is authorized to study in the United States for the duration of their program, while a work visa holder is authorized to work for a specific employer for a specific period.
The requirements for obtaining a non-immigrant visa vary depending on the type of visa. Generally, an applicant must demonstrate that they have a specific purpose for their trip, that they have the financial means to support themselves during their stay, that they have strong ties to their home country and intend to return after their trip.
