Know the laws your rights
immigrant visa
A type of U.S. visa issued to those who qualify for green cards. An immigrant visa enables the holder to enter the United States, take up permanent residence and receive his or her green card.
See Topic: Immigration & Green Cards
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immediate relative
Although the common meaning of this is a close family relation, it has a more specific meaning in immigration law. Immediate relatives are a category of prospective immigrants, who include a U.S. citizen’s spouse, minor children
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Department of State (DOS)
A U.S. department that operates U.S. embassies and consulates. Generally, the DOS determines who is entitled to a visa or green card when an application is filed outside the United States. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
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Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
A government agency created in 2003 to handle immigration and other security-related matters.
See Topic: Immigration & Green Cards
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
A branch of the agency formerly known as the INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service), now reorganized under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). USCIS is primarily responsible for handli
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Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
See border patrol.
See Topic: Immigration & Green Cards
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status
Although the nonlegal, dictionary definition of this word refers to a person’s position, rank, or circumstances, it has a more specific legal definition under immigration law. It means the name of the visa category you’re assigned and the g
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consulate
U.S. consulates are branch offices of U.S. embassies that are located all over the world. Most consulates accept and process green card and visa applications.
See Topic: Immigration & Green Cards
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sponsor
See petitioner (immigration).
See Topic: Immigration & Green Cards
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