ADJUDICATE
To make a decision or determination, typically concerning a legal matter or dispute. When an immigration case is "adjudicated," it implies that an official has concluded to either approve or deny the requested immigration benefit.
ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS
The procedure of seeking a green card while within the United States, in contrast to applying from abroad using consular processing. The term "adjustment of status" is used because the applicant transitions from one status (original visa) to another (permanent U.S. residency).
ADMISSIBILITY
Qualification for entry into the United States. If an individual is deemed admissible, they are permitted to enter the country following an examination by an immigration officer.
ADMIT-UNTIL DATE
The specified date when an individual's immigration status in the United States expires, as indicated on their I-94 travel record. Also, refer to "duration of status" (D/S).
ADVANCE PAROLE
Authorization to reenter the United States after international travel without applying for a new visa. Applicants for green cards can apply for advance parole using Form I-131, allowing them to travel abroad without abandoning their application.
AFFIDAVIT
A formally sworn statement presented in writing, often witnessed by a notary public.
AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT
A document in which an individual commits to providing financial support to an immigrant and reimbursing the U.S. government for any public assistance the immigrant might receive. This document is typically included as part of a green card application.
ALIEN
An individual who is not a U.S. citizen. Under U.S. tax law, individuals with green cards and those who spend substantial time in the United States are classified as "resident aliens." In contrast, other foreign nationals, like temporary visa holders who have not met the residency criteria, are termed "nonresident aliens." Also, see the term foreign national.
ALIEN REGISTRATION NUMBER (A-NUMBER)
An identification number assigned by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to each person submitting a visa or immigration application. The A-number, sometimes referred to as "USCIS number," remains constant throughout an individual's lifetime, even if they submit multiple visa or immigration petitions. Also, refer to the case number.
APPEAL
A request made to an external authority to overturn an official decision or ruling. Certain immigration determinations can be appealed to the USCIS Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), an entity within the Department of Justice. While other decisions may not be subject to formal appeals, they can be reconsidered by the issuing office. Also, refer to motions for reopening or reconsideration.
ASYLUM
Protection and immigration benefits granted to an individual already in the United States or at a U.S. port of entry due to their fear of persecution in their home country. A refugee is designated as an asylee once they arrive in the U.S. or at a U.S. port of entry. Asylees can request a green card after residing in the U.S. for one year.
AUTOMATIC VISA REVALIDATION
A process permitting certain nonimmigrants to make brief trips to Mexico, Canada, or select Caribbean islands and return to the United States with an expired visa without needing to apply for a new one.
BENEFICIARY
A beneficiary is an individual for whom an immigration advantage has been sought, either by the beneficiary or a family member or employer. The primary beneficiary is the person for whom the benefit is sought, while immediate family members who qualify for such advantages are considered derivative beneficiaries.
BIOMETRICS
Biometrics refer to distinct physical traits that establish a person's identity. When applying for a visa or other immigration benefits, you will usually be required to attend a biometrics appointment, during which your fingerprints will be collected and your photograph will be taken.
BIRTH CERTIFICATE
A government-issued document that officially records a person's birth, containing vital details like full name, birthplace, and parents' names. For immigration purposes, the U.S. government typically demands a certified copy of the long-form birth certificate, a duplicate of the original record.
B-VISA
A nonimmigrant visa granted for temporary stays in the United States. The B-visa encompasses the B-1 visa (for business purposes) and the B-2 visa (for tourism and leisure). As many individuals combine business and leisure activities during their U.S. trips, the visa is frequently issued as a single multipurpose B-1/B-2 visa.
CASE NUMBER
A unique identifier assigned by USCIS to monitor individual immigration and visa applications. An individual may have multiple case numbers (also known as "receipt numbers") for different immigration and visa requests. Also referred to as an alien registration number.
CERTIFICATE OF CITIZENSHIP
An official document confirming the holder's status as a U.S. citizen. It is issued to individuals born abroad who acquired citizenship either at birth or later, such as through their parents' naturalization. Also synonymous with a Certificate of Naturalization.
CERTIFICATE OF NATURALIZATION
An official document identifying the bearer as a U.S. citizen. Following the Oath of Allegiance, it is granted to those who attain citizenship through the naturalization application. For more information, see Certificate of Naturalization.
CITIZENSHIP
The state of being a national of a specific country. U.S. citizenship can be obtained at birth, through parents, or naturalization.
CITIZENSHIP TEST
An assessment conducted during an in-person interview as part of the naturalization procedure. Applicants for citizenship must demonstrate proficiency in English speaking, reading, and writing, as well as a fundamental understanding of American civics, including the nation's history and political system.
CITIZENSHIP STATUS
STATUS Refers to an individual's immigration status.
CONDITIONAL RESIDENCE
A provisional status of having a green card given to an immigrant investor (EB-5) or foreign individuals who marry green card holders or U.S. residents. After two years of conditional residence, they must apply for removal of conditions to obtain a permanent green card.
CONTINUOUS RESIDENCE
The time a green card holder spends residing in the United States after obtaining U.S. residency. Permanent residents must maintain continuous residence for 3 to 5 years to be eligible for U.S. citizenship. Prolonged periods abroad exceeding 6 months can disrupt continuous residence. It is also related to physical presence.
CONSULAR ELECTRONIC APPLICATION CENTER
An online platform for submitting most visa applications from abroad. This portal allows applicants to submit forms, documents, pay fees, and track application status.
CONSULAR PROCESSING
The procedure for applying for a green card from outside the United States contrasts with the "adjustment of status" process applied within the country. Most of this process is managed by officials at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to the applicant's residence.
CONSULATE
A diplomatic office located in a foreign country. In numerous nations, the United States maintains a primary embassy in the capital city and smaller consulates (overseen by consuls) in significant towns and cities. Both embassies and consulates offer a range of immigration services.
CORRESPONDENCE USCIS
Occasionally employs this term to refer to forms, letters, notices, or receipts submitted by applicants or issued in response.
CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION (CBP)
A U.S. government agency operating under the Department of Homeland Security. CBP officials are responsible for safeguarding the U.S. border, enforcing customs and immigration regulations, and inspecting incoming individuals before entry into the United States.
DATE FOR FILING
The specified date, indicated in the visa bulletin, on which certain applicants for green cards are permitted to submit their applications even before their final action date is reached. This provision predominantly pertains to applicants residing outside the United States. The USCIS provides monthly updates regarding the applicable dates for such submissions.
DEFERRED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS (DACA)
An initiative introduced in 2012 under the administration of President Barack Obama to grant undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children (commonly referred to as "Dreamers") the legal ability to reside, study, and work without the fear of deportation. Current legal proceedings primarily focus on attempts to phase out the program and deport many Dreamers.
DENIAL
The formal decision issued by USCIS informing an aspiring immigrant or visa applicant that their petition for an immigration benefit cannot be approved.
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (DHS)
The U.S. governmental agency responsible for domestic security matters, including a substantial portion of immigration-related functions. Within the DHS, both the USCIS and the CBP operate.
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (DOJ)
The U.S. governmental agency overseeing criminal justice and law enforcement matters. The DOJ manages immigration courts and certain immigration appeals.
DEPARTMENT OF STATE (DOS)
The U.S. governmental agency in charge of foreign affairs and diplomacy, as well as the administration of U.S. consulates and embassies worldwide.
DERIVATIVE
In the context of immigration, an individual is considered "derivative" when their immigration status hinges on the status of a spouse or parent. For instance, the child of a green card holder is often eligible for their own green card. The recipient of such a benefit is referred to as a "derivative beneficiary," and the visa or benefit they receive is sometimes termed a "derivative benefit" or "derivative classification."
DISCRETION
The ability to form conclusions using individual judgment. Immigration officials possess varying degrees of discretion, ranging from making specific rulings in certain scenarios to exercising broader decision-making authority when approving or denying an immigration benefit.
DOMICILE
For immigration and taxation purposes, "domicile" generally signifies one's place of residence and country of residence. This is frequently termed as their "country of domicile" or being "domiciled in" a specific country.
DUAL INTENT
A concept describing an individual's intentions upon entering the United States. Dual intent involves utilizing a temporary or nonimmigrant visa while simultaneously harboring plans to permanently immigrate to the U.S. Most temporary visas prohibit dual intent, and seeking a green card while on such a visa can lead to significant complications. However, a few visas, like the H-1B and L-1 visas, allow for dual intent, facilitating a transition to a green card.
DUPLICATE
An exact replica or the act of creating an exact copy. In the immigration context, numerous forms and documents necessitate submission in duplicate form, i.e., a photocopy instead of the original.
DURATION OF STATUS (D/S)
A notation or stamp affixed to a temporary visitor's I-94 electronically record (in the admit-until-date section) upon entry to the United States. The D/S mark (also occasionally referred to as "Duration of Stay") permits visitors to remain in the U.S. for the duration of their immigration status. For instance, student visa holders can often stay in the U.S. until they complete their educational program; however, their status ceases once they are no longer enrolled in classes.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEM FOR TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION (ESTA)
An online tool located used by people traveling under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) to request authorization to come to the United States, for business or pleasure, for a period of 90 days or less.
EMBASSY
A diplomatic office, usually located in a foreign country's capital city and headed by an ambassador. In many countries, the United States also maintains smaller diplomatic offices called consulates in significant towns and cities. Both consulates and embassies offer a wide range of immigration services.
EMIGRATE
To leave one's home country to live permanently in a new country. Sometimes confused with immigrate, which means moving permanently to a new country. You emigrate from one place to immigrate to somewhere else.
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
The right to work in the United States. Green card holders automatically have employment authorization, but many other non-citizens must request a work permit called an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Employment authorization can be restricted to a specified employer or allow a person to work for any employer during their time in the United States.
EMPLOYMENT GREEN CARD
A green card is obtained in one of several employment-based (EB) categories. Employer-sponsored green cards, investor green cards, and green cards for immigrants with exceptional skills and abilities are all considered employment green cards. See also family preference and immediate relative.
ESCALATE
To rapidly accelerate or increase the priority level of a given issue. In the immigration context, issues may be escalated when they need special attention. These issues may be moved ahead for faster processing or review by an immigration officer or manager.
EXCLUDE
To keep out or not include. In the immigration context, "exclusion" typically refers to a foreign national being denied entry into the United States through a removal procedure.
EXPEDITE
To speed up the progress of something, "expeditious" means speedy or quick. Under immigration law, certain cases can be expedited, meaning a decision is reached faster than the average processing time.
EXPIRE
To become invalid. Most visas carry an "expiration date" that shows the latest date by which the visas can be used to request entry into the United States. Note that it is possible to have an expired visa without losing one's immigration status. Your visa's expiration date is the last date you can use to travel to the United States, but once admitted to the United States, you will receive a D/S mark or admit-until date that tells you how long you are allowed to remain in the country.
FAMILY PREFERENCE IMMIGRANT
Foreign individuals who qualify for green cards due to their familial relationship with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, excluding immediate relatives (spouse, unmarried minor child, or parent) of a U.S. citizen. This category encompasses adult or married children of U.S. citizens and green card holders, spouses and unmarried minor children of green card holders, as well as siblings of adult U.S. citizens.
FIELD OFFICE A USCIS
Regional office responsible for providing services to individuals within a specific geographic district.
FIANCÉ(E) VISA
Refer to the K-1 visa.
FILING FEE
A required payment when submitting specific immigration petitions or visa applications, including green cards and naturalization applications. In certain situations, fees may be waived if the applicant is facing financial difficulties.
FINAL ACTION DATE
Commonly known as a cut-off date; this indicates the waiting period for visa numbers within specific oversubscribed green card categories. Applicants must wait until their priority date is earlier than the final action date before applying for a green card.
FOREIGN NATIONAL
An individual who is not a U.S. citizen, often referred to as an "alien."
F-VISA
A widely utilized student visa category. F-1 visas are intended for full-time students, F-2 visas are designed for their dependents, and F-3 visas are available to Mexican or Canadian nationals who reside in their home countries but commute to the U.S. for educational purposes. F-1 visa holders typically qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT), permitting them to work for U.S. employers during and after their studies.
GENDER
In the context of immigration, the term "gender" commonly pertains to an individual's biological sex assigned at birth. Transgender immigrants can petition the USCIS for a modification of the gender specified on their official immigration documents, which encompass green cards. This alteration can be accomplished by providing supporting court records, a letter from a medical professional, or an official government document (such as a passport or driver's license) validating the requested gender identity.
GREEN CARD
The physical document bestowed upon permanent residents of the United States, often known as green card holders, is referred to as a green card.
H-1B VISA
An employment-based visa employers utilize to support proficient foreign employees. The H-1B visa stands out as one of the limited dual-purpose visas, enabling visa holders to pursue permanent residency by applying for green cards after arriving on an H-1B visa.
HOME RESIDENCE REQUIREMENT (HRR)
A stipulation mandating J-visa holders to return to their country of origin and stay there for two years before pursuing a nonimmigrant visa or a green card. This stipulation is also called the 212(e) or "two-year" rule. In certain situations, the possibility of obtaining a waiver for the Home Residence Requirement exists.
I-130 ("PETITION FOR ALIEN RELATIVE")
The I-130 form establishes a familial connection between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and an individual seeking green card status. It is the initial step in applying for a marriage-based green card.
I-485 ("APPLICATION FOR ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS")
The I-485 form is employed to apply for a green card while residing within the United States, either in conjunction with an immigrant petition or once an immigrant petition has been approved, and a visa number becomes available.
I-797 ("NOTICE OF ACTION")
An official correspondence sent by USCIS to applicants or petitioners. The I-797 may be utilized to inform the applicant of the approval or denial of a requested immigration benefit, to verify receipt of payment, to arrange or reschedule appointments and interviews, or to request additional evidence pertaining to an application.
I-94 ("ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE RECORD")
This document tracks the arrivals and departures of foreign individuals to the United States. It serves as proof of legal entry and status. Foreign individuals can access your online I-94 record and travel history on the CBP website.
IMMEDIATE RELATIVE
Immediate relatives encompass spouses of U.S. citizens, unmarried children (under 21 years old) of U.S. citizens, and parents of U.S. citizens (provided the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old). Also see "family preference."
IMMIGRATE
To immigrate signifies a permanent move to another country. This is often confused with emigrate, which denotes a permanent departure from a country. Emigration involves leaving one country to immigrate to another.
IMMIGRATION
The process of permanently relocating to another country.
IMMIGRATION BENEFIT
Any visa, legal status, or other entitlement a foreign national seeks from the U.S. government. Examples of immigration benefits encompass green cards, temporary visas, and work authorizations.
IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT (ICE)
The U.S. law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws and identifying/deporting undocumented immigrants. Part of the Department of Homeland Security.
IMMIGRATION AND NATIONALITY ACT (INA)
The federal legislation enacted in 1952 establishes the legal framework for the current U.S. immigration system.
IMMIGRATION LAW
Immigration law encompasses legislative acts, regulations, or legal precedents governing the administration and enforcement of immigration. The term can also refer broadly to the legal field focused on immigration issues; for instance, an attorney may specialize in immigration law.
IMMIGRATION STATUS
The legal category under which an individual is admitted into the United States. Maintaining immigration status entails adherence to specific rules, responsibilities, and benefits associated with that status.
INADMISSIBILITY
In immigration contexts, an individual deemed inadmissible is prohibited from entering the U.S. or obtaining a visa, often due to their behavior or circumstances.
INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS)
The U.S. government agency responsible for collecting taxes from individuals and businesses. Records of an individual's IRS payments frequently form essential supporting documents for subsequent immigration applications.
INTERVIEW
Many visas and immigration benefits, including green cards and naturalization, require applicants to attend an interview where they furnish personal details about their application and themselves.
J-VISA
A non-immigrant visa granted to students, scholars, and participants in cultural exchange programs. Many J-visas entail a condition that requires the visa holder to return to their home country for two years before they are eligible to apply for other visas, including permanent resident status (green cards) if they wish to do so.
JOINT SPONSOR
An individual other than the principal sponsor who commits to providing financial support for an applicant seeking a green card. A joint sponsor becomes relevant when the primary sponsor lacks the financial capability to support the applicant and their household adequately.
JURISDICTION
In the context of immigration, "jurisdiction" generally denotes the particular legal entity responsible for rendering decisions on specific matters. For instance, the U.S. federal court system holds jurisdiction over most immigration cases within the confines of the United States.
K-1 VISA
A visa for an intended spouse (fiancé or fiancée) from a foreign country to enter the United States to marry a U.S. citizen. The visa holder must complete the marriage ceremony within 90 days of their arrival in the U.S. After marriage, they can apply to change their status and obtain a green card. Dependent family members of the fiancé(e) can also receive K-2 visas, which provide similar privileges.
K-3 VISA
A visa designed for the spouse of a U.S. citizen to come to the United States and initiate the process of adjusting their immigration status from within the country. The K-3 visa is infrequently utilized because, in most instances, it is more straightforward and quicker to pursue a green card application through consular processing.
LABOR CERTIFICATION
The procedure by which an employer demonstrates the unavailability of qualified U.S. workers for a specific job. To sponsor a foreign national for an employment-based green card, obtaining labor certification is often a preliminary requirement.
LAWFUL PERMANENT RESIDENCE
The legal status granted to individuals allowing them to reside and work indefinitely in the United States.
L-1 VISA
A nonimmigrant visa for multinational corporations to transfer foreign employees to U.S. offices. The L-1 visa permits dual intent, which can be a pathway toward obtaining a green card.
LOCKBOX
A centralized facility used by USCIS for receiving and processing certain types of applications. Lockbox personnel handles fee processing, organizes applications, and forwards complete application packages to the appropriate USCIS service center for a thorough review. Presently, there are three lockbox locations: Chicago, IL; Phoenix, AZ; and Dallas, TX.
MAIDEN NAME
Also known as a "pre-marriage name," refers to a woman's surname before getting married.
MARRIAGE-BASED GREEN CARD
Also called a spousal visa, is an immigration document obtained through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
MEDICAL WAIVER
Is a special permission allowing an immigrant to enter the United States or receive a visa or other immigration benefit, even if they have a medical condition that would normally disqualify them.
MOTION TO REOPEN OR RECONSIDER
Is a formal request from a government body, such as a USCIS office, asking them to review and reconsider an adverse decision. In some immigration cases, there may not be a formal appeals process, but individuals can still file a motion to have officials take another look at the decision.
M-1 VISA
Is a student visa primarily used for pursuing education or training at a vocational school or technical college.
NATIONAL VISA CENTER
Is a facility overseen by the Department of State responsible for processing visa applications and dispatching green card application packets to relevant embassies and consulates globally for consular processing.
NATIONALITY
Signifies a person's country of citizenship, whether obtained through birth or naturalization.
NATURALIZATION
Denotes the procedure of acquiring U.S. citizenship, which is typically accessible to permanent residents after residing in the country for 3 to 5 years.
NATURALIZED CITIZEN
Refers to an individual who has obtained U.S. citizenship through naturalization, granting them identical rights and responsibilities as U.S. citizens.
NONIMMIGRANT
Pertains to an individual with no intention of permanently relocating to the United States, instead seeking temporary entry as a visitor or guest worker. A nonimmigrant visa is temporary and cannot be used for permanent immigration.
NONRESIDENT ALIEN
Is a term utilized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to describe individuals who are neither U.S. citizens nor green card holders and do not meet the criteria for being "substantially present" in the U.S. For tax purposes, many students and other nonimmigrants who initially qualify as nonresident aliens soon transition to resident aliens.
NOTARIZED
Signifies that a document has been validated by a "notary public," an authorized individual responsible for confirming the document signer's identity. They are simply licensed to witness signatures.
OATH OF ALLEGIANCE
Is a solemn commitment taken during a naturalization ceremony, where a newly inducted citizen pledges their support to the United States and its Constitution while renouncing any previous allegiances to other governments or nations.
O-VISA
Is a nonimmigrant visa granted to individuals demonstrating exceptional talent in various fields such as sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING (OPT)
Is a designated period of employment available to F-1 student visa holders, either during or after their educational program. Graduates with STEM degrees can extend their OPT, making it a valuable route to employment in the U.S. while pursuing H-1B visas, green cards, or other permanent solutions.
OVERSTAY
Involves remaining in the United States beyond the designated admit-until date stated on the I-94 travel record, leading to a loss of legal status. Overstaying can result in significant issues for future visa applications and potential bans of up to 10 years, preventing the visa-holder from returning to the U.S. Also refer to Duration of Status.
PAROLE
Signifies a temporary authorization to enter or stay in the United States. Parole may be granted to permit an otherwise inadmissible individual to enter or remain in the U.S., often for reasons such as receiving medical treatment or providing evidence in a legal proceeding.
PERMANENT RESIDENCE
Also known as lawful permanent residence, refers to the legal status of an individual who has been granted permission to live and work in the United States permanently.
PETITION
In the context of immigration, a petition is a formal document submitted to the U.S. government seeking an immigration benefit either for the petitioner (the individual filing the document) or another person (the beneficiary).
PETITIONER
An individual who formally requests something from the government. In the realm of immigration, a petitioner is someone who submits an immigration form (referred to as a "petition") to seek immigration benefits on behalf of another individual (the "beneficiary").
PHYSICAL PRESENCE
The actual existence of a person in a specific location or country (as opposed to residence, which involves establishing one's domicile there). To qualify for U.S. citizenship, a holder of a green card must spend 3 to 5 consecutive years residing in the United States and be physically present in the country for at least half of that duration.
PROCESS
A sequence of actions or steps undertaken to accomplish a specific outcome. In the context of immigration, these entail activities (including paperwork, submissions, and interviews) necessary when applying for immigration benefits like visas or citizenship.
PROVINCE
A distinct geographical area, administrative division, or district within a nation.
PORT OF ENTRY
Any point of crossing a border, seaport, or airport through which individuals enter the United States. USCIS field offices and service centers are also categorized as ports of entry since they facilitate granting immigrant status.
POVERTY GUIDELINES
The income threshold below which an individual or household is considered to be living in poverty. These guidelines, established by the U.S. government, differ based on household size and are higher for residents of Hawaii or Alaska. For immigration purposes, poverty guidelines are employed to ascertain whether applicants are eligible for fee waivers and to establish minimum income criteria for specific immigration benefits.
PRIORITY DATE
The date on which USCIS received an individual's immigrant petition. It signifies the individual's position in the queue of applicants awaiting available green cards, as indicated in the monthly visa bulletin. The priority date is displayed on the I-797 form sent by USCIS upon approval of the immigrant petition.
PROCESSING TIME
The duration U.S. government takes to assess an application and grant an immigration benefit. This timeframe can vary from a few days to several years or even decades, contingent on the specific benefit sought and the prevailing backlog within the government.
PUBLIC ASSISTANCE
Any form of governmental aid, encompassing monetary disbursements, food vouchers, healthcare support, and specific tax credits and subsidies. Receipt of certain types of public assistance could result in rejecting immigration benefits under the public charge rule.
PUBLIC CHARGE RULE
A regulation enabling the U.S. government to decline immigration benefits to individuals who have utilized, or are projected to use, particular forms of public assistance.
RECEIPT
In the context of immigration, USCIS issues a "receipt notice" as evidence of successfully receiving a specific document or payment. This notice includes a receipt number or case number for tracking purposes.
RECEIPT NUMBER
Synonymous with case number.
RECIPROCITY FEE
Also known as the "visa issuance fee." When a foreign government charges U.S. citizens a fee for certain visas, the United States reciprocates by imposing a fee on citizens of that country. The reciprocity schedule outlines current fees, permitted entries into the U.S., visa validity, and required supporting documents for visa applications.
REENTRY PERMIT
A document, also referred to as a "Permit to Re-Enter," that allows green card holders to travel abroad for over 1 year but under 2 years without jeopardizing their U.S. residency status. It indicates the intention to return and maintain U.S. residency, serving as an alternative to a passport for those unable to obtain one from their home country.
REFUGEE
As per United States law, a refugee is an individual situated outside the boundaries of the United States, holding special humanitarian significance to the country, demonstrating persecution or apprehension of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political viewpoint, or association with a specific social group, lacking firm resettlement in another nation, and meeting the requirements for admission into the United States. It is important to note that the refugee definition excludes those who played a role in inciting, aiding, or participating in the victimization of others based on race, religion, nationality, affiliation with a particular social group, or political beliefs.
REGULATION
An official rule established by a governmental agency or similar authority. Immigration regulations and legislation shape immigration law and determine the application process, benefits, and enforcement procedures in the United States.
REJECT
A determination by USCIS that an immigration submission cannot be accepted due to incompleteness. A rejection does not indicate an applicant's ineligibility for an immigration benefit but reflects incorrect or incomplete application submission.
REMOVAL
The expulsion of an individual from the United States through deportation or inadmissibility determination. Those subject to removal is often returned to their home country.
RESIDENCE
An individual's location establishes their primary and permanent home. For immigration and tax purposes, residence refers to a person's primary dwelling country.
RESIDENT ALIEN
Any non-U.S. citizen residing in the United States. This term encompasses green card holders, though tax classification may include other non-citizens as resident aliens.
RETROGRESS
In immigration, "retrogression" occurs when a green card applicant's position in the waiting line moves backward, resulting in an extended waiting period due to high demand or limited visas.
RETURNING RESIDENT
A green card holder returning to the United States after international travel. If abroad for over 1 year, a returning resident visa may be required.
RETURNING RESIDENT VISA (SB-1)
A visa issued to green card holders who have been abroad for over 2 years or more than 1 year without a reentry permit. Eligibility hinges on showing circumstances beyond their control and no intention to abandon U.S. residency.
REQUEST FOR EVIDENCE (RFE)
A USCIS notice requesting additional information or evidence to support an application. An RFE does not necessarily imply a higher likelihood of denial if responded to accurately and promptly.
REVOKE / REVOKED
To cancel or reverse a previously granted status, such as a visa.
SERVICE CENTER
A USCIS office processing mail or electronic applications, distinct from field offices offering in-person services.
SPONSOR
To file a petition for immigration benefits on someone else's behalf. The person initiating the petition is the sponsor.
SPOUSAL VISA
A green card acquired through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
STAMP
A mark in a passport allowing entry to the United States under a specific category, e.g., student, temporary worker, or permanent resident.
STANDALONE
A form or application filed individually without being combined with another submission.
STATUS
The condition or state of a specific immigration case or an individual's immigration situation.
STEM
Acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Some student visa holders in STEM fields can work in the U.S. for extended periods under Optional Practical Training (OPT).
STUDENT AND EXCHANGE VISITOR INFORMATION SYSTEM (SEVIS)
DHS database tracking student visa holders.
STUDENT VISA
A visa category for education purposes, including F-visas, J-visas, and M-visas.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Evidence submitted with a petition, application, or request for an immigration benefit.
TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS (TPS)
A program allowing individuals from conflict or disaster-affected countries to live and work in the U.S.
U.S. CITIZENSHIP AND IMMIGRATION SERVICES (USCIS)
Agency overseeing lawful immigration, including visa and green card applications.
USCIS NUMBER (OR USCIS#)
Alias for Alien Registration Number (USCIS Number).
VISA
Permission to apply for entry into the United States. A visa may be marked on a passport, granting entry.
VISA BULLETIN
Monthly update on waiting periods for family preference and employment-based green cards.
VISA NUMBER
An identifying serial number on U.S. visas.
VISA STATUS
No formal term in immigration law; refers to an individual's immigration status.
VISA WAIVER PROGRAM (VWP)
Allows citizens of 38 countries to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.
WAIVE
To forgo or overlook a requirement or fee.
WITHDRAWAL
To retract an immigration petition or application voluntarily.
WORK PERMIT
Officially known as Employment Authorization Document (EAD), it grants foreign nationals the right to work in the U.S.
