What is the difference between a Visa and Status?

Status is the name for the privileges given when you receive immigration benefits, either as a nonimmigrant or permanent resident (i.e., a “green card” holder). Visas and green cards are things you can see and touch. A status is not.

While you must be given a status with each visa, the reverse is not true. If you want nonimmigrant privileges, you can get a nonimmigrant status by applying in the U.S. and keep that status for as long as you remain on U.S. soil. You will not, however, get a visa at the same time because visas can be issued only outside the U.S. This is important for nonimmigrants, because they can travel in and out of the U.S. on visas, but not with a status. If you have nonimmigrant status, but not a corresponding visa, you will lose it as soon as you leave the U.S. You can regain your privileges only by getting a proper nonimmigrant visa from a U.S. consulate or embassy before returning.