Detailed information about the differences between H-1B visa and the US Green card is given below
|
Feature |
H‑1B Visa |
Green Card (Permanent Residency) |
|
Type |
Non-immigrant, temporary work visa |
Immigrant, permanent resident status |
|
Validity |
Initially 3 years, extendable up to 6 years |
Valid indefinitely (with 10-year renewal periods) |
|
Job Requirement |
Tied to a specific U.S. employer and job role |
Not tied to a specific job; allows job changes freely |
|
Status Maintenance |
Requires on-going employment and visa compliance |
Fewer restrictions; can stay unemployed temporarily |
|
Application |
Employer-sponsored only |
Can be employer-sponsored or through family, asylum, or investment |
|
Path to Citizenship |
Must convert to Green Card first |
Eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years of permanent residency |