Temporary visas are often referred to as “non-immigrant” visas. The category covers a broad range of visas that are used to enter the United States for work, training, study or pleasure. Although some visas are considered to involve “dual intent,” which permits the holder to proceed to a green card, most nonimmigrant visas require continued ties to their country and plans to return home. The duration of time that the holder of a non-immigrant visa may spend in the United States can range from a few days to several years depending on the visa classification. In most situations, spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may accompany the principal visa holder as dependents.
