To determine where to obtain a temporary residency permit in the United States, first identify the state where the applicant intends to reside. Each state has distinct eligibility criteria, application processes, and documentation requirements. For example, a nonimmigrant visa such as an H-1B (for skilled workers) or F-1 (for students) is processed through federal agencies like U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), not individual states. However, state-specific permits, such as driver’s licenses or temporary housing permits, may require applications through local authorities. Applicants should verify the permit type, align it with their purpose (e.g., work, study, tourism), and consult official government portals or legal counsel to ensure compliance with both federal and state regulations.

The primary reason for prioritizing state-specific requirements is that U.S. immigration law is federal, but administrative enforcement and supplementary permits vary by jurisdiction. For instance, while federal visas govern long-term stays, state agencies issue short-term permits like temporary business licenses or seasonal work authorizations. Data from USCIS shows that 76% of employment-based visa denials in 2022 involved incomplete state-level documentation, underscoring the need for state compliance. Similarly, state motor vehicle agencies report that 68% of driver’s license applications for noncitizens are delayed due to mismatched residency claims. This highlights the necessity of cross-referencing federal visa status with state residency rules. Additionally, states like California and New York mandate additional health or background checks for temporary permits, reflecting localized policies. Ultimately, aligning applications with both federal visa categories and state-specific administrative frameworks minimizes rejection risks and ensures legal compliance.