What is the difference between a visa and a green card?

The difference between a visa and a green card in West Virginia is an important distinction for those wishing to move to the United States or those already living in the United States as foreign nationals. A visa is a document that is granted to a foreign national to enter the United States for a specific purpose, such as vacation, education, or employment. A visa is usually temporary and does not grant a person legal status within the United States. A green card, on the other hand, is an identification card issued to a foreign national, providing them with permanent legal status to live and work in the United States. This status is known as "lawful permanent resident" status. With this status, the foreign national may apply for US citizenship after satisfying the requirements. The status also allows them to re-enter the US following travel abroad, and to receive certain benefits. In West Virginia, an individual may be eligible to apply for a green card through family members, such as a spouse, parent, or child; through a job offer with an employer in the US; or through a special visa lottery. However, in order to receive a green card, the individual must first obtain a visa. The visa is the first step in the process of obtaining a green card, and it must be obtained before any application to become a permanent resident can be processed.

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