Immigration Terminology

Home / Resources & Support / Immigration Terminology
Understanding common immigration terms can help navigate the complex U.S. immigration system:

1. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

A legal document in which a U.S. citizen or permanent resident agrees to financially support an intending immigrant to ensure they do not become a public charge.

2. Conditional Permanent Resident

An individual granted a two-year Green Card through marriage or investment-based immigration. They must apply to remove conditions before the expiration of the two-year period to maintain permanent residency.

3. Consular Processing

The process by which an applicant outside the U.S. applies for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country before entering the U.S. as a permanent resident.

4. Dual Intent Visa

A type of visa that allows a foreign national to enter the U.S. temporarily while simultaneously intending to apply for permanent residence in the future. Examples include H-1B and L-1 visas.

5. Immigration Petition (Form I-130/I-140)

A petition filed by a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or employer to sponsor an immigrant for lawful permanent residence in the U.S.

6. Notice of Action (Form I-797)

An official document from USCIS that provides updates on the status of an immigration application or petition. It may serve as a receipt, approval, or denial notice.

7. Priority Date

The date an immigrant petition (I-130, I-140) is filed, used to determine when an applicant can proceed with their Green Card application based on visa availability.

8. Public Charge Rule

A policy that determines whether an applicant for a visa or Green Card is likely to become dependent on government assistance and, therefore, ineligible for admission.

9. Reentry Permit (Form I-131)

A travel document allowing a U.S. permanent resident to stay outside the U.S. for extended periods without abandoning their Green Card status.

10. Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)

A visa for certain foreign nationals who have worked with the U.S. government, particularly translators and interpreters from Afghanistan and Iraq.

11. Visa Bulletin

A monthly publication by the U.S. Department of State that provides information on the availability of immigrant visas based on priority dates.

For a more comprehensive glossary of immigration terms, you can refer to the USCIS Glossary.

Let me know if you need additional terms included!

Scroll to Top