Whether relocating to another country permanently or just looking to spend some time there while also working, you will need a visa to enter that country and stay there legally. There are many types of U.S. visas, including non-immigrant and immigrant visas. But what exactly is the difference between an immigrant and a non-immigrant visa? This article covers everything you need to know about immigrant vs. non-immigrant visas. Read on to find out more!
What is an Immigrant Visa?
A visa that allows you to permanently move to a new country and live there is known as an “immigrant visa.” You can also think of it as a permanent visa. When you apply for an immigrant visa, you’re applying for permanent residence in a new country. To qualify for an immigrant visa, you’ll need a valid reason to move to that country.
For foreign-born people planning to live permanently in the United States, the government of the United States issues an immigrant visa. Permanent resident, immigrant, green card holder, and resident alien are all words that can be used in place of an immigrant visa. Immigrants have many of the same rights and privileges as American citizens, including the ability to work and live in the country.
The U.S., for example, has different types of immigrant visas depending on your situation. Some common types of immigrant visas include:
Family-based Visas
These are granted based on family ties.
Employment-based Visas
These are given based on employment in the host country.
What is a Non-immigrant Visa?
A non-immigrant visa is one that allows the holder to visit, live and work in the country for some time. The length of time varies depending on the country.
A non-immigrant visa may allow a foreign national to work in the U.S. for a limited period. An American employer which desires to hire a foreign employee must sponsor him/her to get a non-immigrant visa to enter the country or be granted the visa while living in the U.S.
Certain non-immigrant visas allow a foreign national with specific qualifications, education, or expertise to work in the U.S., such as an executive of a multinational company (L-1), an employee in a specialized occupation (H-1B), an individual with exceptional ability (O-1), investors (E-2), entertainers and athletes (P-1), religious workers (R-1) or seasonal workers (H-2). Other non-immigrant visas allow foreigners to stay in the U.S. for a limited time.
Some common non-immigrant visas include:
Tourist Visas
These allow you to visit a country for a limited period.
Business Visas
These also allow you to visit a country for a limited period.
Differences between Immigrant and Non-immigrant Visas
Immigrant visas are granted to people who want to move to a new country for the rest of their lives. Non-immigrant visas, on the other hand, are given to people who wish to stay in a country for a limited period.
Immigrant visas are usually granted based on family ties or employment. On the other hand, non-immigrant visas are granted based on temporary employment or business, and study, among others.
Immigrant visas allow holders to stay in the country for the rest of their lives. Non-immigrant visas, on the other hand, enable visitors to stay in the country for a limited period.
How to Apply for an Immigrant Visa?
When you apply for an immigrant visa, you’re applying for permanent residence in a new country. The length of the process varies depending on the visa you are applying for. The first step in the process is to find out which visa you qualify for. This step is confusing but using a professional immigration lawyer near you will make it seamless.
Once you know what you need, your immigration attorney will assist you to complete the form(s) and submit the relevant documents. The documents you’ll need to submit vary depending on which visa you’re applying for. Once you’ve applied, you’ll be given a receipt notice with a number. You’ll need to keep this number to track the progress of your application. If you are outside the U.S., you will go through consular processing. If you are in the U.S. you will adjust status to become a permanent resident.
How to Apply for a Non-immigrant Visa?
When you apply for a non-immigrant visa, you’re visiting a country for a limited time. You’ll need to decide which visa you qualify for and which documents you’ll need to submit. You can speak with our immigration attorneys in Florida to help you to determine which visa you are eligible for and what documents you’ll need to submit.
Once you’ve submitted the application and approved, if you are outside the U.S. you’ll need to wait for an interview at the nearest embassy or consulate. If you are in the U.S. you will change status to the non-immigrant visa you applied for.
Can I have two types of Visas?
Can I Get a Dual Intent Visa? Some non-immigrant visa holders may apply for permanent immigrant status. The H-1B visa for skilled foreign workers is a well-known example. Dual intent visas allow workers to work in the U.S. on an temporary employment visa with the intention of possibly immigrating to the U.S. permanently. The E-2, L-1, O-1 and P-1 visas are also dual intent visas.
If you want permanent residency while on these visas, you should speak with an immigration lawyer for advice.
Finding the proper visa for your situation
You’ll need to decide which visa you qualify for before you start applying. If you’re unsure which visa you qualify for, you can contact immigration lawyers in Florida. We also give the best visa options for your situation, start by filling out this visa evaluation form. Another way to find the proper visa for your case is to talk to an immigration lawyer or find an immigration attorney near you.
Conclusion
A visa that allows you to permanently move to a new country and live there is known as an “immigrant visa.” You can also think of it as a permanent visa. When you apply for a U.S. immigrant visa, you’re applying for permanent residence in the United States.
A U.S. non-immigrant visa, on the other hand, allows you to stay in the country for a limited period of time. The difference between these visa types is that an immigrant visa is granted for permanent stay in the country as opposed to temporary stay.
How can CFUIS help you migrate to the USA?
Your visa or entry into the United States could be jeopardized if you make even a minor error on your application or leave out an essential piece of evidence. Many applications filed without the assistance of a competent immigration lawyer are denied.
Working with a qualified immigration lawyer is crucial for your success. Our professional legal team is prepared to assist you. We are dedicated to your success and will do everything we can to help you.
Book your consultation with one of our U.S. immigration experts.
