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A Simple Guide to the U.S. Immigration System
1. Types of Immigration Status
- Nonimmigrant (Temporary): For tourists, students, and workers with a visa for a specific purpose and limited time (e.g., B-2, F-1, H-1B).
- Immigrant (Permanent Resident): Also known as green card holders, these individuals can live and work in the U.S. permanently.
- Undocumented: Individuals without legal status, either by entering unlawfully or overstaying a visa.
2. Main Immigration Agencies
- USCIS – Processes immigration applications like green cards, citizenship, and work permits.
- CBP – Handles entry into the U.S. at airports and borders.
- ICE – Enforces immigration laws inside the U.S., including arrests and detention.
- EOIR – Runs the immigration courts for removal (deportation) cases.
3. Common Immigration Pathways
- Family-Based: Sponsored by a U.S. citizen or green card-holding relative.
- Employment-Based: Sponsored by a U.S. employer or based on extraordinary talent.
- Humanitarian: Asylum, refugee status, TPS, or visas for victims of crimes or trafficking.
- Diversity Visa Lottery: For individuals from countries with low rates of U.S. immigration.
4. Removal (Deportation)
If someone violates immigration law, they may be placed in removal proceedings. Immigration
judges decide if a person must leave or can stay through available legal relief.
The system is complex. A qualified immigration attorney can help you navigate options, avoid
scams, and defend your rights.