Nonimmigrant generally refers to an individual or groups of people who come to another country for a specific purpose or period of time. These individuals typically maintain legal residency in their native country and are not planning to stay in the foreign country indefinitely. The nonimmigrant’s visa will generally indicate the length of time they are staying in the foreign country and for what purpose.
Visa Types for Nonimmigrant
Nonimmigrants may come to the United States for a wide range of reasons. Some of the most commonly issued visas are student visas, tourist visas, business visas, or employment-based visas. Nonimmigrants cannot apply for a green card or permanent residence status while in the United States and must complete their nonimmigrant status by leaving the country or applying for a Change of Status with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before the expiration of the visa.
Changing From Nonimmigrant to Immigrant Status
Individuals who come to the United States on a nonimmigrant visa may be eligible to apply for a status change to become an immigrant, depending on their situation. For example, those who are admitted to U.S. colleges or universities, marry a U.S. citizen, or are sponsored by an employer in the United States may be eligible to apply for a Change of Status. The Change of Status process requires the individual to submit several documents and can be a long process.
Conclusion
Nonimmigrant is a term commonly used when referring to individuals who come to the United States (or other countries) for a period of time, and who maintain legal residence in their native country. Nonimmigrants may come to the United States for a wide range of reasons such as student, tourism, business, or employment, and they must apply for a Change of Status if they intend to stay in the United States permanently.