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Immigration Glossary

Plain-language definitions for the terms, forms, and acronyms you'll run into — no legal jargon, just what they actually mean.

A

Alien's Change of Address (AR-11)

Forms

The free form (or online form) used to notify USCIS whenever you move. You're legally required to file this within 10 days of a change of address.

Application for Certificate of Citizenship (N-600)

Forms

Used to get proof of citizenship for someone who became a U.S. citizen automatically, usually through a parent, rather than through naturalization.

Application for Employment Authorization (I-765)

Forms

The form used to request a work permit (EAD).

Full guide to Form I-765

Application for Naturalization (N-400)

Forms

The form used to apply to become a U.S. citizen, typically after holding a green card for the required number of years.

Full guide to Form N-400

Application for Travel Document (I-131)

Forms

The form used to request Advance Parole or a re-entry permit.

Full guide to Form I-131

Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (I-485)

Forms

The form used to apply for a green card from inside the United States, without having to leave for a visa interview abroad.

Full guide to Form I-485

Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (I-90)

Forms

Used to renew an expiring green card or replace one that's lost, stolen, or damaged.

I

Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (I-140)

Forms

Filed by (or on behalf of) an employer to petition for a foreign worker to get an employment-based green card.

P

Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (I-129)

Forms

Used by employers to petition for temporary foreign workers in categories like H-1B, L-1, and O-1.

Petition for Alien Relative (I-130)

Forms

The form a U.S. citizen or permanent resident files to establish a qualifying family relationship with a relative who wants to immigrate.

Full guide to Form I-130

Petition for Fiancé(e) (I-129F)

Forms

Filed by a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the U.S. on a K-1 visa so they can get married within 90 days of arrival.

Full guide to Form I-129F

Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence (I-751)

Forms

Filed by a conditional permanent resident (usually from a marriage under 2 years old at green card approval) to convert a 2-year conditional card into a full 10-year one.

Full guide to Form I-751
This is general information to help you understand common terms, not legal advice. Terminology and policy can change — for anything specific to your case, a licensed immigration attorney can advise you directly.