Visa
What does "Visa" mean in law?
A visa is an official authorization, typically stamped or affixed to a passport, that permits a foreign national to seek entry into the United States for a specific purpose and duration. Visas are broadly divided into immigrant visas (for those intending to reside permanently) and nonimmigrant visas (for temporary stays such as tourism, work, or study). The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) establishes numerous visa categories, each with distinct eligibility criteria, numerical limitations, and conditions of stay. Visa classification determines the scope of activities permitted, duration of authorized stay, and the path (if any) toward permanent residency.
Definition
A visa is an official authorization, typically stamped or affixed to a passport, that permits a foreign national to seek entry into the United States for a specific purpose and duration. Visas are broadly divided into immigrant visas (for those intending to reside permanently) and nonimmigrant visas (for temporary stays such as tourism, work, or study). The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) establishes numerous visa categories, each with distinct eligibility criteria, numerical limitations, and conditions of stay. Visa classification determines the scope of activities permitted, duration of authorized stay, and the path (if any) toward permanent residency.
Example
A software engineer from India applies for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, which authorizes temporary employment in a specialty occupation, subject to annual numerical caps set by Congress.