As a lawyer, I can explain the difference between a non-immigrant visa and an immigrant visa.
A non-immigrant visa allows a person to enter the United States temporarily for a specific purpose such as study, work, or tourism. The person must have a permanent residence outside the U.S. and intend to return after their temporary stay. Examples of non-immigrant visas include F-1 student visas and H-1B work visas.
On the other hand, an immigrant visa allows a person to permanently live and work in the United States. The individual must have an approved immigrant petition and qualify for one of the immigrant visa categories such as family-based, employment-based, or through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program.
Which one should someone apply for depends on their individual circumstances and immigration goals. If someone wants to come to the U.S. for a temporary purpose, they would apply for a non-immigrant visa. If they want to permanently live in the U.S., they would apply for an immigrant visa.
It's important to note that obtaining an immigrant visa can be a lengthy and complex process. Also, there are limitations and exceptions to both non-immigrant and immigrant visas that may affect eligibility. For example, certain non-immigrant visas have limits on the amount of time a person can stay in the U.S. and some immigrant visa categories have numerical limitations.
Therefore, before deciding which type of visa to apply for, it's recommended to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who can assess an individual's situation and advise them on their best options.
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