Navigating the U.S. immigration process can feel overwhelming, especially with all the unfamiliar terms and forms involved. This glossary is here to support you by providing clear, simple explanations of the words and phrases you're likely to come across—particularly if you're going through the K1 or CR1 visa process. Whether you're just starting out or in the final stages, this guide is meant to help you feel more informed and confident every step of the way. You're not alone in this journey, and understanding the language is a great place to start.
Affidavit – a written statement confirmed by oath.
Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) – A written promise by the US sponsor to financially support a foreign fiancé(e), showing they will not become a public charge. Used during the K1 visa process.
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) – A legally binding contract where the sponsor commits to financially support the immigrant applying for a Green Card (CR1 process).
Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process that you can use to apply for lawful permanent resident status ) also known as applying for a green card) when you are present in the US.
Beneficiary – The person for whom an immigration petition is filed for.
Bona fide – A Latin term meaning genuine. In immigration, it refers to a legitimate and sincere relationship or marriage.
Conditional Green Card / Conditional Permanent Resident – A Green Card granted for two years, typically through marriage, with conditions that must later be removed (via Form I-751) to obtain permanent status.
Consulate – A branch of the U.S. Embassy, usually located in a major city, that handles visas, passports, and assistance for US citizens abroad.
Consular Officer / Visa Officer – A trained official working at a US Embassy or Consulate who reviews and decides visa applications.
DS-160 – The Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application used for visas like the K1. It is completed electronically and submitted before the interview.
DS-260 – The Immigrant Visa Application Form used for those applying for a Green Card from outside the US, such as CR1 applicants.
Filing Fee – A fee required when submitting immigration forms to USCIS or the Department of State.
Foreign Fiancé(e) – A person outside the U.S. who is engaged to marry a U.S. citizen and is applying for a K1 visa.
Foreign Spouse – A non-US citizen who is married to a US citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Form G-1145 – A form used to request email and text notifications from USCIS upon receipt of your petition.
Form G-1450 Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, is a document used to authorise USCIS to charge a credit card for the filing fees of various USCIS applications, petitions, or requests. It allows applicants to pay for USCIS fees using a credit card issued by a US bank.
Form I-129F – The petition used by a US citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the U.S. on a K1 visa.
Form I-130 – A petition used by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to bring a foreign spouse (or other relative) to the US permanently.
Form I-130A – A supplemental form submitted with the I-130, providing background information about the spouse applying for immigration.
Form I-94 – An Arrival/Departure Record issued by US Customs and Border Protection, serving as proof of lawful entry to the US.
Form I-751 – A petition to remove the conditions on a two-year Green Card obtained through marriage.
I-129F Filing Packet – The full set of documents submitted with Form I-129F to USCIS when applying for a K1 visa.
I-130 Filing Packet – The collection of documents submitted with Form I-130 to USCIS to begin the CR1 spousal visa process.
Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) – A non-citizen authorised to live and work permanently in the US (Green Card holder).
NOA1 (Notice of Action 1) – A receipt notice from USCIS confirming your petition has been received. Example here.
NOA2 (Notice of Action 2 or I-797) – A notice from USCIS confirming that your petition has been approved. Examples here.
National Visa Centre (NVC) – A US Department of State agency that processes approved immigrant visa petitions before forwarding them to the appropriate US embassy or consulate.
Permanent Resident Status – Legal authorisation to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. Typically granted through a Green Card.
Petitioner – The US citizen or permanent resident who files a petition (I-129F or I-130) for a foreign fiancé(e) or spouse.
Sponsor – The person (usually the US citizen petitioner) who takes financial responsibility for the immigrant beneficiary.
Social Security Number (SSN) – A 9-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration used to track earnings and eligibility for benefits.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – A federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement, border security, and national protection.
U.S. Embassy – The main diplomatic mission of the US in a foreign country, typically located in the capital city. It handles visa processing, diplomatic affairs, and services for US citizens.
Work/Travel Permit (EAD/AP) – A combined Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole (AP) card that allows someone with a pending Green Card application to work and travel while waiting for approval.