Green Card vs Visa—two terms that frequently appear in U.S. immigration discussions, yet many people remain unclear about their distinctions. If you’re planning to travel to the United States or want to immigrate permanently, understanding the differences between a visa and a green card is essential for navigating the legal process effectively.
In this guide, we’ll explore what each document represents, who needs them, how they’re issued, and what rights they provide under U.S. immigration law.
What Is a Visa?
A U.S. visa is an official authorization issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate that allows a foreign national to travel to a port of entry and seek entry into the United States. It does not guarantee entry—final approval lies with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the border.
Types of U.S. Visas
There are two main categories of visas:
- Non-Immigrant Visa: For temporary stays such as tourism (B-2 visa), business (B-1 visa), student study (F-1 visa), or temporary work (H-1B, L-1).
- Immigrant Visa: For individuals seeking permanent residence in the U.S. Once admitted, these visa holders are issued a green card.
Key Features of Visas
- Issued outside the U.S. at consulates or embassies
- Usually has a fixed expiration date
- May or may not allow employment, depending on the visa type
- Often requires proof of intent to return to home country (for non-immigrant visas)
What Is a Green Card?
A green card, formally known as a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) card, allows a foreign national to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. Green card holders enjoy many rights, including the ability to apply for U.S. citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
How to Obtain a Green Card
- Through Adjustment of Status (from a non-immigrant visa while living in the U.S.)
- Through an Immigrant Visa (issued before arriving in the U.S. for permanent residence)
Green Card Rights and Benefits
- Permanent legal residence
- Full employment rights
- Access to federal benefits and programs
- Sponsorship of immediate family members for U.S. immigration
Green Card vs Visa: Key Differences
| Feature | Visa | Green Card |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporary or permanent U.S. entry | Permanent U.S. residence |
| Issued By | U.S. consulate or embassy | USCIS (within U.S.) or consulate (abroad) |
| Work Rights | Limited, based on visa type | Full employment rights in U.S. |
| Validity | A few months to several years | Usually valid for 10 years (renewable) |
| Residency | Not required | U.S. must be primary residence |
| Leads to Citizenship | No (except immigrant visas) | Yes, after 3–5 years of residency |
What Are Conditional Green Cards?
Some immigrants receive conditional permanent residence, valid for two years. This typically applies to:
- Spouses in marriages less than 2 years old at the time of green card issuance
- Investors in the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
These holders must file to remove conditions before the two-year expiration. Failing to do so can result in loss of permanent resident status.
Do Green Cards Expire?
Yes, green cards themselves expire every 10 years, but your permanent resident status does not expire. You must renew the physical card using Form I-90. In contrast, many non-immigrant visas expire within 1–3 years and must be renewed or extended depending on eligibility.
Travel Rules for Green Card Holders
A green card cannot be used like a tourist visa. You must live primarily in the U.S. to maintain your status. If you live abroad for extended periods or treat another country as your home, U.S. immigration authorities may consider your green card abandoned.
To avoid issues:
- Do not stay outside the U.S. for more than 6 months continuously without a Re-entry Permit.
- Show strong ties to the U.S. (bank accounts, property, job, taxes, etc.).
What Is a Visa Number and Why It Matters
A visa number is issued by the U.S. Department of State when a green card becomes available in your category. It’s particularly relevant for:
- Family-sponsored immigrants
- Employment-based immigrants
- Countries with high demand for U.S. immigration
This number helps determine your place in line, especially in oversubscribed categories, but it doesn’t appear on any document. It’s an administrative tracking tool.
Conclusion: Choosing Between a Green Card and Visa
Whether you should apply for a visa or a green card depends on your goals:
- If you plan to visit, study, or work temporarily: apply for the appropriate visa.
- If you want to live permanently in the U.S.: aim for green card eligibility, either directly or through a change of status.
Understanding the legal differences between visas and green cards helps you make informed choices and stay compliant with U.S. immigration law. For long-term security, a green card is the gateway to permanent residence and eventually U.S. citizenship.