The intricacies of immigration law can be overwhelming. There are many visa types, procedures, and eligibility criteria to comprehend. Sometimes the legal jargon clouds the meaning of common terms Therefore, the purpose of this article is to simplify immigration law terms and provide clarity on fundamental concepts.

Breaking Down the Legal Jargon: Common Terms in Immigration Law

We will demystify the pathways available, from non-immigrant to immigrant visas. We can also help you understand precedent, by citing key cases in immigration. Additionally, we’ll explore the significance of citizenship, whether through naturalization or dual citizenship. By shedding light on these intricate topics, we will equip you with the details necessary to approach immigration with confidence.

Non-Immigrant Visa

Non-immigrant visas exist for individuals who intend to visit the country temporarily for specific purposes. Common examples include business, tourism, education, or work assignments.

Non-immigrant visas do not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship. Instead, they grant temporary entry for a predetermined period. The U.S. offers many non-immigrant visa types, each tailored to various purposes.

Immigrant Visa

Immigrant visas allow individuals to enter the country with the intent of becoming Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). These typically depend on family relationships, employment opportunities, or humanitarian reasons. Additionally, they signify a commitment to welcoming individuals to establish permanent ties. Once granted, immigrants with these visas can reside and work in the United States indefinitely.

Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident)

A Green Card grants non-U.S. citizens the legal right to reside and work in the country indefinitely. It signifies an entitlement to numerous benefits, including access to employment, public education, and social services.

Green Card holders can also travel in and out of the country without a visa. For many, acquiring it is a significant milestone toward U.S. citizenship. It represents an opportunity to pursue the American dream of building a stable and prosperous life.

Citizenship

Citizenship entities individuals to the same rights and privileges as native-born citizens. As a result, obtaining it grants immigrants the opportunity to participate in civic and political life. It provides the right to vote in elections, serve on juries, and run for public office. Achieving this goal represents a deep commitment to the United States and its values. You can learn how to become a citizen of the U.S. today. It’s also possible to achieve dual citizenship.

Naturalization

Naturalization is the legal process to become a full-fledged citizen. It is a fundamental pathway for individuals who are Green Card holders to attain the rights and privileges of U.S. citizenship.

Immigrants must meet requirements to begin the naturalization process, including the following:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Having resided in the U.S. continuously for a specified period
• Demonstrating good moral character
• Passing a comprehensive English language and civics examination

Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship refers to the legal status of an individual who holds citizenship in two different countries. While the U.S. generally recognizes and permits dual citizenship, not all countries have the same approach. They may require individuals to renounce or revoke their citizenship when acquiring another.

There are various ways to achieve dual citizenship, such as the following:

• Being born in the U.S. to parents from different countries
• Naturalizing as a U.S. citizen while maintaining citizenship in one’s country of origin
• Acquiring U.S. citizenship through marriage to a U.S. citizen while retaining citizenship in another country

Dual citizens enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of both nationalities. However, dual citizens should understand the potential complexities and legal obligations. For example, military service in a foreign nation may impact one’s U.S. citizenship status.

Asylum

Asylum is a form of protection granted to individuals who have fled their home country. Generally, they take this action due to a well-founded fear of persecution.

Asylum seekers must apply for asylum within one year of their arrival in the U.S. But there are exceptions for extraordinary circumstances. The application is a complex legal process to present evidence and testimony to support your claims. Those granted asylum are asylees and get to live and work in the country.

Refugee Status

Refugee status refers to the resettlement opportunities granted to individuals forced to flee their homes. The U.S. government offers refuge to those who meet the criteria. It uses similar grounds as asylum, such as persecution due to race, religion, nationality, or political opinion. Unlike asylum seekers, the government typically screens and selects individuals while they are outside the country. The process involves thorough security checks, medical evaluations, and interviews.

Hire a Local Immigration Lawyer

It’s important to remember that immigration law is intricate and ever-changing. Hopefully, by reading this, you’ve been able to decipher and bust open myths and common misconceptions about immigration. Each individual’s situation is unique, and hiring an immigration attorney can ensure a successful process. An immigration lawyer can provide personalized advice, assess your eligibility, and help you get through the legal system unscathed.

We strongly encourage you to seek a referral to a local attorney specializing in immigration law. You can request legal help through our website or call (866) 345-6784!