Green Card vs Visa: An Expert Breakdown for US Employers

If you’re planning to hire foreign workers, understanding the difference between a green card and a visa is one of the most important parts of the process. The question of green card vs visa comes up often from employers wanting to stay compliant, and knowing how each option works helps you make the best choice for your business.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the fundamentals of green cards vs visas so you can move forward with confidence. 

Understanding the Basics of Green Card vs Visa

A visa is a temporary permission allowing a foreign national to enter the United States for a specific purpose. Some visas allow employment, while others do not. Employment visas let workers stay in the US for a set period, though this can sometimes be extended.

A green card, also called a Permanent Resident Card, allows a person to live and work in the United States permanently. Workers with green cards can change employers more freely and usually build long-term careers in the US.

Both visas and green cards support employment, but the timeframes, requirements, and employer obligations are very different.

Types of Visas US Employers Use

Employment visas come in several categories, each with a unique business need. Here are some of the most common options for US employers. Keep in mind that each of these visa types comes with its own time limits, renewal options, and specific filing requirements, so consulting with an immigration attorney can help determine which visa program is right for your needs.

H-2B Visa for Seasonal and Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers

The H-2B visa program is designed for employers who need seasonal or temporary help. It’s widely used in industries including:

• Landscaping

• Construction

• Tourism

• Hospitality

Employers must prove there aren’t enough US workers available to help and that the job is truly temporary in nature.

H-2A Visa for Agricultural Employers

The H-2A visa program is for agricultural businesses that require temporary or seasonal labor for:

• Planting

• Harvesting

• Cultivating crops

• Livestock-related work

To qualify, the job must be seasonal or tied to a recurring period of the year. H-2A is one of the most widely used visa programs for farms, orchards, nurseries, and other agricultural operations.

TN Visa for Canadian and Mexican Professionals

The TN visa program allows qualified professionals from Canada and Mexico to work in the United States under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This visa is often used by employers who need professionals such as:

• Accountants

• Engineers

• Scientists

• Teachers

The TN visa is attractive to employers because it can be processed quickly and renewed easily as long as the worker continues to meet the requirements.

What Employers Need to Know About Employment-Based Green Cards

Employment-based green cards allow foreign workers to live and work in the US permanently. For employers, this option takes longer, but it helps create long-term workforce stability.

Most employment-based green card cases begin with a process called PERM labor certification. This process confirms that there are no qualified US workers available for the role, and that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively affect US wages or working conditions.

Once PERM is approved, employers can help the workers apply through the appropriate category. Common categories include:

• EB-1: Priority workers who have extraordinary abilities, such as outstanding professors, researchers, or multinational executives.

• EB-2: Used for positions that require advanced education or exceptional expertise in the arts, science, or business.

• EB-3: A flexible category that works for professionals in many industries, including long-term staffing needs in construction, technical roles, hospitality, and manufacturing.

Green Card vs Visa: Key Differences for Employers

When choosing between a green card and a visa for your foreign worker, consider the practical differences. 

Visas

• Faster to obtain than green cards.

• Designed for temporary work, such as seasonal needs.

• Often more affordable for employers.

• Eligible for a wider range of positions. 

• Tied to employment with a specific employer.

Green Cards

• Take longer to obtain than visas and require more steps.

• Support long-term employment through permanent roles.

• Require more financial investment.

• Only eligible for specific, qualified positions.

• Workers can leave and go work for any US company.

Common Employer Challenges When Choosing Green Card vs Visa

Choosing the right option isn’t always simple. Some of the most common issues employers face with this choice include:

• Limited visa availability

• Strict filing deadlines

• Long processing times for certain green card categories

• Complex compliance requirements

• Difficulty determining which option fits the role best

Mistakes in paperwork or timing can cause delays, so many employers seek legal guidance early in the process.

How an Immigration Attorney Supports US Employers

An experienced immigration attorney can help employers choose the right option, prepare accurate filings, and stay compliant with federal regulations. They can also help businesses avoid costly errors and keep cases moving forward.

Legal guidance is especially helpful for employers filing H-2B applications, PERM recruitment, or complex business immigration cases that require careful planning. 

Final Thoughts: How to Choose Green Card vs Visa

Understanding the difference between a green card vs visa is only the first step to making confident decisions about your workforce. The answer to this choice ultimately lies in your business goals, staffing needs, and the type of workers you hope to bring on board.

If your business is ready to explore employment visas or long-term immigration options, Youngblood & Associates is here to help. Contact our team today to learn how we can support your staffing strategy and guide you through every step of the immigration process.