Two of the most confused terms in US immigration, explained simply.
People often use 'visa' and 'green card' interchangeably, but they mean very different things in US immigration law.
A visa is temporary permission
A visa lets you enter the US for a specific purpose and period — tourism, study, or work. It does not, by itself, give you the right to stay permanently.
A green card is permanent residence
A green card grants lawful permanent residence: the right to live and work in the US indefinitely, and a path toward citizenship through naturalization. Many people move from a temporary visa to a green card through an employer or family member.