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Atlanta Immigration Lawyer > Blog > Family Immigration > Comparing Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas in the United States

Comparing Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas in the United States

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The United States immigration system tends to be quite complex and confusing, especially for those who struggle to understand and speak the English language. If you are planning on seeking permanent status and citizenship or if you only plan to come to the U.S. temporarily for a specific reason, you will need to obtain a visa. Proving your intent is an important foundation and part of getting the visa you want to come to the U.S. legally.

There are many visas that could apply to your situation, and the Atlanta visa attorneys at Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. can help you find the right one for your circumstances.

 What are the Differences Between Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas in the United States? 

Essentially, the reason why you desire to come to the United States and the length of time you are interested in staying are at the core of what type of visa you could qualify and apply for.

 Non-Immigrant Visa 

For individuals who are not planning on staying in the United States permanently, whether it is because they are coming for tourism, to visit family or friends, for business purposes, to study, or more would be looking at obtaining one of the several types of non-immigrant visas that are available.

Immigrant Visas

 For individuals who wish to travel to the United States and stay there permanently, making it their home would apply for an immigrant visa. In this situation, an immigrant visa will typically allow for lawful permanent residence, which is what happens when one obtains their Green Card. A family member or spouse of a lawful permanent resident in the U.S. or a U.S. citizen can help foreign nationals get their immigrant visa. Though, other reasons can get this visa too, like employment offers.

In summation, a non-immigrant visa is temporary, and an immigrant visa is not.

Intent plays a critical role in being successful in securing your desired visa. In other words, since a non-immigrant visa is temporary an individual that is looking to enter the country via this route will be expected to leave the country once their visa time is up. So, they will have to prove that they have intent to exit the country when it is time.

Conversely, an immigrant visa is for those individuals who want to stay in the U.S. for good. There are certain eligibility requirements that must be met to obtain this type of visa.

Speak to an Atlanta Visa Attorney Today 

The compassionate and skilled immigration attorneys at Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc., are committed to making the visa process go as smoothly as possible for you. When you have immigration legal needs, the dedicated team at Shirazi Immigration Law Inc. can help you find the solutions that are most appropriate and fitting for your specific goals and circumstances.

For a consultation to discuss your needs and case, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611. One of our Atlanta, GA, immigration lawyers is here for you and ready to help.

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