Overview of Temporary Visas vs. Immigrant Visas

1. What are the differences between temporary visas and immigrant visas?


Temporary visas are visas that allow a person to enter into a country for a limited amount of time for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, or studying. These visas do not permit permanent residency in the country. Immigrant visas are visas that allow a person to permanently live and work in a country for an indefinite period of time. These visas are usually granted based on family relationships, employment, or investment.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for each type of visa?


Student visa: To be eligible for a student visa, you must be accepted by a SEVP-approved school in the U.S. and be able to support yourself financially during the duration of your studies. You must have a valid passport and meet other requirements as outlined by the U.S. Department of State.

Work visa: To be eligible for a work visa, you must have an approved job offer and meet the requirements for the type of work visa you are applying for. These requirements vary depending on the type of work visa and are outlined by the U.S. Department of State.

Tourist visa: To be eligible for a tourist visa, you must have a valid passport and meet other requirements as outlined by the U.S. Department of State. You must also demonstrate that you plan to stay in the U.S. for a limited period of time and have ties to your home country that will ensure that you will return upon completion of your trip.

3. How long does it take to process a temporary visa compared to an immigrant visa?


It typically takes approximately 6-8 months to process a temporary visa, while it can take anywhere from 8 months to several years to process an immigrant visa.

4. Can I apply for both types of visas simultaneously?


No, you cannot apply for both types of visas simultaneously. You will need to submit separate applications for each visa type.

5. What documents are required for a temporary or immigrant visa application?


A temporary or immigrant visa application typically requires the following documents:

1. A valid passport.
2. A completed visa application form.
3. A passport-sized photograph.
4. Financial documents to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the host country.
5. Proof of a valid health insurance policy in the host country.
6. Evidence of a valid travel ticket or an intention to purchase one within three months.
7. Proof of family ties in the host country, if applicable.
8. Supporting documentation for the purpose of your stay, such as a letter of invitation from a host or an employment offer letter in the host country, if applicable.

6. Are there any restrictions on the number of times an individual can obtain a temporary or immigrant visa?


Yes, there are restrictions governing the number of times an individual can obtain a temporary or immigrant visa. Each visa type has different requirements, and individuals may be limited to the number of times they can enter the country with a particular visa. Some countries may also limit the number of times a person can apply for a visa.

7. How much does it cost to apply for a temporary or immigrant visa?


The cost of a temporary visa application depends on the type of visa you are applying for and the country you are from. For example, the cost of an H-1B visa application for applicants from most countries is $460, while the cost for applicants from certain countries may be less. The cost of an immigrant visa application is $325.

8. Are there any income requirements that must be met in order to obtain a temporary or immigrant visa?


Yes, there may be income requirements that must be met in order to obtain a temporary or immigrant visa. For most nonimmigrant visas, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to cover their stay in the United States. For immigrant visas, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and any family members joining them in the United States.

9. Can I work in the US with a temporary or immigrant visa?


Yes, you can work in the US with a temporary or immigrant visa. However, please be sure to check the requirements and restrictions that come with your particular visa before you start working. Some visas require you to obtain permission from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you can begin working.

10. Can I bring my family with me if I have a temporary or immigrant visa?


It depends on the type of visa you have. Most temporary or immigrant visas will not allow you to bring family members with you. Typically, only certain types of family-based visas, such as a K-3 or K-4 visa, will allow you to bring your family with you.

11. Is it easier to obtain a temporary or immigrant visa if I have relatives in the US?


The answer depends on which type of visa you are looking to obtain. Generally speaking, it can be easier to obtain a visa if you have relatives in the United States, but this is not always the case. It is important to research the requirements for the particular visa category you are interested in and contact an immigration lawyer if you have questions or need assistance with the application process.

12. How can I find out if my application for a temporary or immigrant visa has been approved?


You can check the status of your application on the Department of State website. You will need to provide your receipt number, which you can find on the documents the embassy or consulate gave you after you applied for your visa.

13. Can I extend my stay beyond the validity period of my temporary or immigrant visa?


No, you cannot extend your stay beyond the validity period of your temporary or immigrant visa.

14. Are there any restrictions on what activities I can do while in the US on a temporary or immigrant visa?


Yes. Immigration laws and regulations govern activities performed in the United States while on a temporary or immigrant visa. For example, visitors are generally not allowed to work or study without authorization, and those with green cards are subject to restrictions on political activities such as voting and running for office.

15. Does having a criminal record affect my application for a temporary or immigrant visa?


Yes, having a criminal record may affect your application for a temporary or immigrant visa. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, it may make you inadmissible to the U.S. and ineligible for the visa. In some cases, a waiver may be available that would allow you to be considered for a visa even though you have a criminal record.

16. What is the difference between permanent residency and citizenship?


Citizenship is the highest level of recognition that a country can grant someone, granting a person all the rights and protections of the country. Permanent residency (or a Green Card) is a type of visa that grants someone the ability to live and work in a country on a long-term basis, although it does not confer full citizenship rights.

17. What are my rights as a permanent resident or citizen of the US?


As a permanent resident or citizen of the United States, you have the right to:
-Vote in elections for federal offices
-Apply for federal employment
-Receive certain government benefits
-Become a naturalized U.S. citizen
-Travel outside the U.S. and return
-Protection from deportation
-Due process rights
-Freedom of speech and assembly
-Right to bear arms
-Right to privacy
-Equal protection under the law

18. Are there any other benefits that come with obtaining a temporary or immigrant visa?


Yes, there are a variety of additional benefits that can come with obtaining a temporary or immigrant visa. These can include a work permit, access to government-funded services and benefits, access to education and housing, and the ability to travel outside of the country for extended periods of time. Additionally, many countries offer additional incentives for individuals with temporary or immigrant visas, such as discounts on taxes or access to special programs and services.

19. Can I change my status from temporary to permanent residency while in the US on a valid visa?


Yes, it is possible to change your status from temporary to permanent residency while in the US on a valid visa. The process involves filing an adjustment of status application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Your eligibility to apply for a green card will depend on your current immigration status, the basis of your application, and other factors. It is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that you are eligible and to guide you through the application process.

20. Are there any other types of visas that can be applied for in addition to temporary and immigrant visas?


Yes, there are a few other types of visas that can be applied for in addition to temporary and immigrant visas. These include student visas, exchange visitor visas, crewmember visas, and diplomatic and official visas.