Article 2: The Two Main U.S. Visa Categories Explained

A person who is not a U.S. citizen and wants to travel to the United States may need a U.S. visa. If a visa is required, they must apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the United States. The reason for traveling helps determine which visa they need. For example, someone traveling to the United States to study, work, or visit may need a different type of visa. A consular officer reviews the application and determines whether the applicant qualifies for the visa under U.S. immigration law.

The Two Main U.S. Visa Categories

There are two main categories of U.S. visas: nonimmigrant visas and immigrant visas. The main difference between these two visa categories is how long a person plans to stay in the United States.

What Is a Nonimmigrant Visa?

A nonimmigrant visa is for people who want to come to the United States temporarily. People may travel to the United States for reasons such as tourism, business, studying, temporary employment or cultural exchange. Think of it this way: A nonimmigrant visa is for someone who plans to come to the United States for a specific purpose and then return home. For example, a student who is accepted to study at a U.S. university may apply for an F-1 student visa. A tourist visiting family may apply for a B-2 visitor visa.

What Is an Immigrant Visa?

An immigrant visa is for people who want to live permanently in the United States. People may qualify for an immigrant visa through family relationships, employment or other immigrant categories established under U.S. law. Think of it this way: An immigrant visa is for someone whose goal is to make the United States their permanent home.

What's the Difference?

• Nonimmigrant visa = Temporary stay

• Immigrant visa = Permanent move

The type of visa a person needs depends on why they want to travel to or live in the United Sates. A complete list of U.S. visa categories is available on the websites of the U.S. Department of State (DOS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

What's Next?

In the next article, we'll explore temporary (nonimmigrant) and permanent (immigrant) employment-based visas.