Which statement best describes the difference between an immigrant visa and a nonimmigrant visa?

• A. An immigrant visa leads to permanent residence; a nonimmigrant visa is for temporary stays for a specific purpose.
• B. An immigrant visa is for temporary stays; a nonimmigrant visa leads to permanent residence.
• C. Both visas lead to permanent residence.
• D. Nonimmigrant visas lead to permanent residence after a time.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that visa type hinges on intent and duration. An immigrant visa is issued to someone who intends to live in the United States permanently; when admitted, they become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). A nonimmigrant visa is for a temporary stay for a specific purpose—such as tourism, study, or temporary work—and you must maintain that temporary status. It does not by itself grant permanent residence, though some people may pursue a separate path to adjust status later. So the statement that best captures the difference is that an immigrant visa leads to permanent residence, while a nonimmigrant visa is for temporary stays for a specific purpose.