What is the difference between a nonimmigrant visa and an immigrant visa?
A2. Individuals who are traveling to the United States for a temporary purpose are classified under U.S. law as nonimmigrants, since they do not intend to remain there permanently. These persons must obtain a “nonimmigrant visa” (NIV). Individuals who are traveling to the United States to live and work permanently are classified as immigrants and must obtain an “immigrant visa” (IV) permitting them to stay indefinitely. If you are intending to immigrate to the United States, please click here for more information.
A nonimmigrant visa, is a temporary visa, given to qualified applicants in a specific classification as defined by U.S. immigration laws and regulations, that allows a foreign born national to enter the United States for a temporary period. Nonimmigrant visa classifications include but are not limited to those available for business, tourism, employment, training, investment, study, performance or competition, and other acceptable purposes. While the underlying nonimmigrant visa classification is often times approved or certified by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service, or SEVIS or Department of State certified sponsoring entity, the actual nonimmigrant visa is usually issued at an American Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country. Under appropriate circumstances, a foreign born national already physically present in the United States in valid nonimmigrant visa status may seek to change his or her status to that of another nonimmigrant or immigrant visa category, wi
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