What’s the Difference Between Non-Immigrant, Immigrant Visas?

Notably, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers many paths for foreigners to enter the country legally. There are essentially two categories for its visa programs: non-immigrant and immigrant visas. So, without further ado, please follow along to find out the difference between non-immigrant and immigrant visas and how a proficient family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you apply for the right one.

What is the difference between non-immigrant visas and immigrant visas?

As the name slightly alludes to, a non-immigrant visa is a visa type that grants a foreigner access to enter the United States temporarily. The reason behind a temporary stay in the country may be tourism, work, education, medical treatments, etc.

This suggests that immigrant visas are intended for foreigners who wish to live in the United States permanently. Now, the explanation behind this desire may be to marry and live with a United States citizen; to be geographically closer to family members who are United States citizens; to accept a prestigious position in a United States workplace; and more.

What are the requirements for non-immigrant visas and immigrant visas?

Now that you comprehend the key distinction between non-immigrant and immigrant visas, you must grasp their separate eligibility requirements.

On the one hand, requirements may vary based on the specific non-immigrant visa you are seeking. For example, if you wish to be a temporary tourist, you may file Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, with the United States embassy or consulate in your home country. And while you may file the same form when seeking temporary employment in the country, you may first need to have your prospective employer file authorization documentation with the USCIS on your behalf. This may be to prove that there is eligible work awaiting you in the United States.

On the other hand, your prospective employer may still be required to apply for an employment authorization document for your immigrant visa. But you may file on your behalf if you petition for a permanent work visa based on your extraordinary ability in your field. Or, for a fiancé or other family-based visa program, you may have to have a relative sponsor you before you proceed forward with your own application. This may be to prove that they can support you financially upon your arrival into the country.

Lucky for you, our firm has years of experience in handling both non-immigrant and immigrant visas. If you think now is the time to get started on your immigration application, then please reach out to a talented family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI. Our team at Sesini Law Group, S.C. is well-equipped to take on your case.

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