Which of the following describes a nonimmigrant visa?

• A. A visa that leads to permanent residence.
• B. A visa that allows dual intent.
• C. A visa for temporary stays for a specific purpose.
• D. A visa that cannot be extended.

Answer: (C)

Nonimmigrant visas are issued to people who plan to stay in the United States temporarily for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, study, or medical treatment. They are meant for short-term visits with the intention to depart once the purpose is fulfilled. This is different from immigrant visas, which are for those who intend to live permanently in the U.S. and pursue permanent residence. While some nonimmigrant categories can allow dual intent, that isn’t the defining feature for all of them, and extension rules vary by visa type. Because of that, the description that best fits a nonimmigrant visa is a visa for temporary stays for a specific purpose, like a tourist, student, or exchange visitor visa.