What is the difference between a visa and a green card?

A US visa is a document that allows a foreign national to travel to a US port of entry and request admission. Most visas are nonimmigrant visas, meaning they authorize a temporary stay for a specific purpose such as tourism, study, or work. A visa does not guarantee entry; a Customs and Border Protection officer makes the final decision at the border.

A green card, formally called a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), grants the holder lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. This allows the person to live and work in the United States indefinitely, travel abroad and return, and eventually apply for citizenship. Unlike a visa, a green card does not expire the right to reside in the US, although the physical card must be renewed every 10 years.

The key distinction is permanence and work rights. A visa is tied to a specific purpose and duration. A green card is not tied to any single employer or activity and allows unrestricted employment. Immigrant visas are the category used to obtain a green card when entering from abroad.

This is general information only, not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration lawyer or registered migration agent for your specific situation.