
Understanding Different Immigration Statuses
Understanding the many immigration statuses in the United States is essential for building informed and inclusive communities. This glossary was created to clarify the different types of immigration status and help promote respectful and fact based conversations. It is not an exhaustive list, and some immigration statuses may be missing. The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin encourages all residents, regardless of immigration status, to stay informed, support policies that protect human rights, and advocate for fair and accessible pathways to citizenship.
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals):
A temporary protection from deportation for certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children. DACA recipients can work legally but do not have a pathway to permanent residency.
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Immediate Relatives – No annual cap; includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens (the citizen must be at least 21).
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Family Preference Categories – Subject to annual limits; includes:
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Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
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Spouses and children of permanent residents
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Married children of U.S. citizens
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Siblings of adult U.S. citizens
Green Card Holders (Lawful Permanent Residents):
Non-citizens who are authorized to live and work permanently in the U.S. They can eventually apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency and other requirements.
Naturalized Citizens:
Individuals who were born outside the U.S. but have legally obtained U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process, which includes residency, testing, and an oath of allegiance.
Student Visa (F-1/M-1):
Allows foreign nationals to study in the U.S. at approved institutions. F-1 is for academic studies, while M-1 is for vocational programs. These visas have restrictions on employment.
Tourist Visa (B-2):
Allows individuals to visit the U.S. temporarily for tourism, visiting family, or medical treatment. Employment is not permitted under this visa.
Worker Visa (e.g., H-1B, L-1, O-1):
Permits foreign nationals to work in the U.S. temporarily under specific job categories. Most require employer sponsorship and are limited in duration.