What is the difference between a visa and a green card?
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As a lawyer, I can provide legal advice on the difference between a visa and a green card.
A visa and a green card are both types of documentation that regulate a foreign national’s ability to enter and stay in the United States. However, there are significant differences between these two documents that affect the holder's benefits and limitations.
A visa is typically granted to an individual for a temporary stay in the United States, for example, for a student or tourist. There are different types of visas and requirements for each for an individual to get a visa. Some visas can be issued for multiple entries, meaning that the holder can enter the US more than once within a certain period. However, visas do not provide permanent residence and the holder is required to leave the country once the visa expires or is revoked.
In contrast, a green card, also known as a permanent resident card, offers lawful permanent residence to foreign nationals. Green cards are granted through family or employment categories or as asylum/refugee status. A green card offers more benefits than a visa. Green card holders can permanently live and work in the United States and have the freedom to travel outside the US and return to it without restriction. Green card holders can also sponsor their immediate family members for green cards and can ultimately apply for naturalization and become a US citizen.
There are limitations to obtaining a green card. The process of obtaining a green card is tedious and can be very expensive. The process also requires evidence of the applicant's eligibility and can be a very long process that could last for years. There are a limited number of green cards given out yearly, which means some applicants may need to wait for several years to be granted a green card.
In summary, visas are legal documents issued to foreign nationals for short-term stay in the US, while green cards grant lawful permanent residence in the US. It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer to determine which document is required for each individual case, and to ensure all the requirements are met for the successful application of a visa or a green card.
