Your immigration status is how the United States government sees you. It categorizes you as a foreign citizen under the law. It decides what you can and cannot do, like work, study, travel, or apply for benefits.
Here are the types of immigration statuses and what they mean:
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Naturalized Citizen
You become a naturalized citizen when you complete the immigration journey and join the American family. The process, called naturalization, is covered in the Immigration and Nationality Act.
To become one, you need to live as a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years, pass the Civics and English tests, and take an oath of allegiance.
If you are successful, you get the same benefits that apply to citizens by birth. You get to vote, own a U.S. passport, run for political office, and apply for federal jobs. And the best part is you no longer have to deal with visa renewals or immigration troubles.
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Lawful Permanent Resident
If you have a Green Card, you’re a lawful permanent resident. That means you can live and work in the U.S. without a time limit.
You can become an LPR through one of the following ways:
- Family-based LPR, which lets citizens or LPRs sponsor certain family members
- Employment-based LPR, which lets companies sponsor foreign workers. Some investors also qualify under this category
- Asylum, for people fleeing persecution due to race, religion, nationality, politics, or social group
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Conditional Permanent Resident
This is a Green Card with an expiration date.
Conditional permanent residency is for spouses of U.S. citizens or LPRs married for less than two years, or investors under the EB-5 program.
You have to remove the conditions before your card expires. If you miss that window, you could lose your status.
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Non-Immigrant
Those in the U.S. temporarily, such as for work, school, or travel, are non-immigrants.
Popular non-immigrant visas are:
- Work visas, like H-1B, L-1, and O visas
- Student visas, like F-1 or M visas
- Tourist and business visas (B-1/B-2) visas
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Special Immigrant Juvenile
This status is for children who’ve been abused, neglected, or abandoned by their parents. It allows them to apply for lawful permanent residency.
A requirement is that the child must already be in the U.S. and have a court order confirming they can’t safely return to a parent. It’s a lifeline for kids to hold on to for a better future.
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Undocumented Immigrant
Being undocumented means you don’t have a legal immigration status. This happens when an individual enters without permission or overstays a visa.
An undocumented person can’t work legally, travel freely, or access benefits. They are always at risk of deportation.
But, there’s still hope. Some undocumented immigrants are able to apply for legal status through family petitions, humanitarian relief, or other programs.
If you’re in this situation, reach out to a licensed immigration attorney on the ImmigrationQuestion.com network for help.
Pending/Approved Status on the USCIS website
You can check your case status on the USCIS website using your receipt number. If you check and see “pending,” it means your case is still under review. If it’s approved, your status will change to “approved.”
Make sure you monitor your case regularly so you don’t miss any updates or requests for more evidence.
Know Where You Stand: ImmigrationQuestion.com Can Help
Knowing your status allows you to plan and act accordingly. Your status determines where you can work, how you travel, and if you can sponsor a family member.
If you have any questions about your immigration status, you can get answers at ImmigrationQuestion.com. We connect you with licensed immigration attorneys who will review your case and help you decide on the next step.
Go to ImmigrationQuestion.com now to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does immigration status mean?
Your immigration status is your legal standing in the U.S. It determines where you can work, how long you can stay, and how you can travel.
How do I know my status?
You can check your case on the USCIS website using your receipt number. It’ll show if your application’s pending, approved, or needs more info. Your immigration papers will always indicate your current status throughout your immigration journey.
What’s the difference between “pending” and “approved’ status?
“Pending” means USCIS is still reviewing your case. “Approved” means you’re now an immigrant or non-immigrant.
What are the types of immigration status?
Immigrants fall under one of these statuses: naturalized citizens, lawful permanent residents, conditional permanent residents, non-immigrants, special immigrant juveniles, or undocumented individuals.
How can I change my status?
You can apply for an Adjustment of Status if you are in the U.S. You can go through Consular Processing if you’re abroad. It depends on your situation.
Can undocumented immigrants change their status?
Some may qualify for family-based petitions, humanitarian relief, or special programs. You should talk to an immigration attorney on the ImmigrationQuestion.com network to know the best option for you.
Why does it matter to know my immigration status?
Knowing your status determines your life in the U.S., so it helps you plan wisely.
Where can I get help?
Go to ImmigrationQuestion.com and connect with experienced immigration attorneys who can assess your situation and give you professional advice.
