People immigrating to the US for work have two visa options: work-related temporary visas that are time-bound, and employment-based immigrant visas (typically called “green cards,” which can also be issued for non-work related reasons) that offer permanent residence in the United States.
The government permits immigration for multiple reasons: to reunite families, provide safety for refugees, and expand labor pools for seasonal work, among others. In 2022, most authorized immigrants — 42% — were admitted on work-related visas. Qualifying for either a temporary work visa or a green card depends on a range of factors, including offers of employment and measures of personal and professional achievement.
