An immigrant visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to live in the United States permanently. This type of visa grants foreign nationals the right to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis.
A nonimmigrant visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to visit the United States temporarily. This type of visa grants foreign nationals the right to enter the United States for a specific purpose, such as tourism, study, or business, and for a limited period of time.