If you apply for a green card or permanent residency status while possessing a nonimmigrant visa, your visa may be taken away from you unless you can show that you did not intend to do so when you applied for your temporary visa. Since it can take at least 3-4 months to complete this process, there is mounting pressure by employee advocacy groups and tech industry groups to alleviate this restriction. See the Visa Updates section for ongoing developments in this area. If you are already within the U.S. you may apply for immigrant or nonimmigrant visas at the regional INS office nearest you or your employer but must travel outside the U.S. to actually receive your visa. If you do not intend to travel outside the U.S. during the duration of your visa, you may apply for a green card or nonimmigrant status without leaving the U.S. but a visa will not be issued to you.
Nonimmigrant visas can range widely in price depending on the particular visa.
Also, visa costs change from time to time. Visa extensions are best handled in the U.S. since visa stamps can be extended within U.S. borders. Because of the complexity of immigration law it is often difficult for laypersons to determine which visa might be best for their particular situation. A lawyer can actually save you time and money by looking at your needs and ensuring the visa you apply for is right for your situation. An attorney can also make sure your application is as complete and thorough as possible.