U.S. Immigration 101
U.S. Immigration 101
Master the fundamentals of U.S. immigration—from visa types to Green Cards and choosing your ideal pathway.
Understanding U.S. Visa Types
The U.S. offers two main visa categories: temporary (non-immigrant) for short-term stays and permanent (immigrant) for those seeking long-term residency.
Temporary Visas
- B-1/B-2 (Business/Tourist)
- F-1 (Student)
- H-1B (Specialty Workers)
- L-1A (Executive Transfer)
- E-2 (Treaty Investor)
- O-1 (Extraordinary Ability)
Permanent Visas
- EB-1 (Priority Workers)
- EB-2 (Advanced Degree)
- EB-3 (Skilled Workers)
- EB-5 (Investor)
- Family-Based
Green Card or Work Visa
Which Path Is Right?
Comparing temporary work authorization with permanent U.S. residency to help you make informed decisions.
Work Visas
- Valid for specific period
- Employer-dependent
- Must renew regularly
- Limited career flexibility
Green Cards
- Permanent U.S. residence
- Work for any employer
- Path to citizenship
- Complete freedom
Key Terms Every Applicant Should Know
Decode immigration terminology with straightforward definitions of the most important USCIS concepts.
- Beneficiary: Person receiving immigration benefit
- Priority Date: Your place in Green Card queue
- Adjustment of Status: Applying for Green Card while in U.S.
- RFE: Request for additional evidence from USCIS
- EAD: Work authorization document
- I-94: Arrival/departure record
- Consular Processing: Visa application abroad
- Advance Parole: Travel permission during Green Card process
- PERM: Labor certification requirement
