nonimmigrant

Nonimmigrant is a term used in immigration law to describe a person who enters a country on a temporary basis for a specific purpose, such as tourism, study, or work, and who does not intend to settle permanently. The concept is typically contrasted with immigrant status, which is associated with the intention to reside permanently.

In the United States, the term is defined in the Immigration and Nationality Act as a classification for visitors and temporary workers. Nonimmigrant visas specify the purpose and length of stay and generally require the applicant to demonstrate ties to their home country and sufficient funds. Common nonimmigrant categories include B-1/B-2 for business or pleasure, F-1 for academic students, J-1 for exchange visitors, M-1 for vocational students, H-1B for temporary skilled workers, H-2A/H-2B for seasonal or temporary workers, L-1 for intracompany transferees, TN/USMCA for certain professionals, and O-1 for individuals with extraordinary ability. Some nonimmigrant visas allow work authorization, others do not, and some allow limited on-campus or authorized employment.

Nonimmigrant status generally requires departure when the authorized period ends, though certain visas permit extensions or changes of status within the country. A few nonimmigrant categories acknowledge dual intent, allowing pursuit of permanent residency (for example, H-1B and L-1) without losing nonimmigrant status; many others require a demonstrated intent to return home.

Compliance is enforced through status maintenance and adherence to visa terms; violations such as overstay or misrepresentation can lead to removal and entry bars. The term nonimmigrant is also used in other jurisdictions to describe temporary residents or visitors, reflecting a broader distinction between temporary and permanent residence.