Differences Between a Visa, Green Card and ESTA in the United States (Complete Guide 2026)

Although they are often used as if they were the same, Visa, Green Card and ESTA do not mean the same thing and do not grant the same rights in the United States. Each one corresponds to a different immigration status and serves a specific purpose.

If you are planning to travel to the U.S. for tourism, business, studies, or with the intention of residing long-term, understanding these differences is key to choosing the correct application process and avoiding mistakes that could affect your entry into the country.

Visa vs Green Card vs ESTA in 30 seconds

Visa: official authorization to enter the United States for a specific purpose. It is generally temporary.

Green Card: document that proves lawful permanent resident status in the U.S.

ESTA: electronic travel authorization to travel without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (maximum 90 days).

Important:

• A visa does not equal permanent residence.

• A Green Card does not equal U.S. citizenship.

• ESTA is not a visa.

What is the real difference between a Visa and a Green Card?

The main difference lies in duration and purpose.

A visa allows entry into the United States for a specific reason and, in most cases, for a limited period of time.

The Green Card, on the other hand, certifies that you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR) and allows you to live and work in the country on an ongoing basis.

While a visa is tied to a specific purpose (tourism, studies, employment, exchange, etc.), permanent residence is not dependent on a particular activity.

What exactly is ESTA and how is it different from a visa?

The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an electronic travel authorization linked to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

It allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for up to 90 days for:

• Tourism

• Business

• Transit

Key differences between ESTA and a visa

• ESTA is only available to citizens of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

• It allows a maximum stay of 90 days.

• It does not allow long-term study or employment.

• It is applied for entirely online.

• No consular interview is required.

In contrast, a visa:

• Is available to more nationalities.

• May allow stays longer than 90 days.

• Includes multiple categories (tourism, study, work, immigration, etc.).

• May require a consular interview.

• May allow, in some cases, extensions or change of status.

It is important to note that if you do not meet the requirements of the VWP, you will need to apply for a visa even if your trip is short.

What each status allows you to do

Nonimmigrant Visa

A nonimmigrant visa is designed for temporary stays. There are different categories depending on the purpose of travel.

For example:

• Tourism or business (B1/B2)

• Studies (F-1)

• Temporary work (H, L, O, among others)

It is important to understand that the validity of the visa does not always match the authorized period of stay.

The length of stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry into the United States.

Employment is only permitted if expressly authorized by the visa category.

Green Card (Permanent Residence)

The Green Card proves lawful permanent residence in the United States.

It allows you to:

• Live in the country indefinitely

• Work for most employers

• Enter and leave the country with certain limitations

• Apply for U.S. citizenship in the future (if eligibility requirements are met)

Although the physical card is typically valid for 10 years, permanent resident status does not expire as long as it is properly maintained.

Important: Spending extended periods outside the United States may put your permanent residence at risk. Before long absences, it is advisable to review the applicable regulations.

General requirements to apply for a U.S. visa (Reference 2026)

Requirements may vary depending on the category and consulate, but the standard process usually includes:

• Completing Form DS-160

• Having a valid passport

• Paying the corresponding consular fee (generally USD 185 for many nonimmigrant visas)

• Attending an interview if required

• Providing documentation that supports the purpose of the trip and financial capacity

Fees may vary depending on the category and reciprocity agreements, so it is always recommended to verify the latest official information before starting the application.

Practical summary: What do you need based on your situation?

• If you are traveling for tourism or business for less than 90 days and your country is part of the VWP → you will likely need ESTA.

• If your country is not in the VWP or you need to stay longer than 90 days → you will need a visa.

• If you wish to live permanently in the United States → you will need to obtain a Green Card.

Choosing the correct procedure from the beginning helps avoid refusals, delays, and issues at the border.

If you would like to simplify your application (visa or ESTA) and receive specialized assistance to reduce common errors, at Visagov we help you manage the process step by step.