Visto n' Visa
Blog
Notícias e artigos
Destinations
Careers
Immigrants

What is the difference between the H-2A visa and a green card?

The H-2A visa is temporary for agricultural workers, while the green card guarantees permanent residency in the US, each with distinct criteria and durations.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on December 25, 2025
1 min read
Share

Both are immigration mechanisms in the United States, but they have different purposes, requirements, and durations.

The H-2A visa is for temporary agricultural workers, granted for seasonal or harvest activities, subject to the absence of available American labor and tied to a specific employer for a determined period.

The green card offers permanent residency, allowing one to live and work in the US without time limitations or employment ties. Its acquisition is more complex, involving various criteria such as family ties, job offers, or asylum.

It is essential to respect immigration laws, seek updated information, and obtain proper guidance to avoid fraud and conduct the process safely.

Learn more about H-2A Visa

Type
Agricultural work
Duration
Up to 3 years
Cap
No fixed limit
Processing
3-6 months
All about H-2A Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

What is the difference between the H-2A visa and a green card?

The H-2A visa is temporary for agricultural workers, while the green card guarantees permanent residency in the US, each with distinct criteria and durations.

Recommended reading about H-2A

More content about H-2A