Immigration & Naturalization
- Immigration is the movement of a person or people from one country into another. In most common references, the word is used to identify people who have migrated from one country into another, whether or not they become citizens of their new country of residence.
- Most counties honor two types of visas: immigrant and non-immigrant--also known in some countries as a temporary immigrant visa. The United States offers both of these visas to people who intend to come to the United States for various reasons. Most non-immigrant visas are granted for tourism, schooling or seasonal work. Immigrant visas are mostly associated with permanent employment; movement to be with family; or special circumstances, such as having refugee status.
- Permanent residents are immigrants who are not citizens, but who qualify for privileges almost equal to those of citizens.
- In the United States, permanent immigrants are also known as Green Card holders. Green Card holders are allowed to travel in and out of the United States without a visa, and they are eligible for many federal benefits. Permanent residents still lack official citizenship.
- Naturalization is when a non-native who becomes a citizen of the country he has adopted as home. Usually, the naturalization process is intended for people who are already permanent residents. There are some exceptions for special circumstances.
- The United States naturalization process requires a test of English language skills and contains questions regarding U.S. civics, government and history.