Immigration Terminology
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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.
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