The BCC IS a visa, and it is also known as a laser visa. The BCC is not printed in your passport, it is a separate document that you must carry with you in addition to other travel documents. Mexican nationals who travel to the US for tourism or short term business purposes (B-1 or B-2 visas), often receive a combination of a BCC and a visa.

A BCC does not allow you to work or live in the United States, it is a temporary visitor authorization, usually given to short-term travelers.