Visa Glossary

A visa glossary is a collection of key terms and definitions related to visas, immigration, and travel permits. It helps individuals understand different visa categories, application processes, legal terms, and policies. From Adjustment of Status (AOS) to Visa Waiver Program (VWP), a visa glossary provides clarity on essential terms like Green Card, H-1B, J-1, Naturalization, and more. Whether you’re applying for a work, student, tourist, or family-based visa, a glossary serves as a useful reference for navigating immigration procedures.

A to Z Visa Glossary

A – Adjustment of Status (AOS)

The process of applying for a Green Card (permanent residence) while staying in the U.S.

B – B-1/B-2 Visa

Non-immigrant visas for business (B-1) and tourism/medical treatment (B-2).

C – Consular Processing

Applying for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

D – Dual Intent

A visa category allowing a person to apply for permanent residence while holding a temporary visa (e.g., H-1B, L-1).

E – E-2 Visa

Investor visa for individuals from treaty countries who invest in a U.S. business.

F – F-1 Visa

Student visa for academic studies in the U.S.

G – Green Card

A document granting permanent residency in the U.S.

H – H-1B Visa

Work visa for skilled professionals in specialty occupations.

I – I-94 Form

Arrival/Departure record issued to travelers entering the U.S.

J – J-1 Visa

Exchange visitor visa for students, researchers, and cultural exchange participants.

K – K-1 Visa

Fiancé(e) visa for foreign nationals marrying U.S. citizens.

L – L-1 Visa

Work visa for intra-company transfers.

M – M-1 Visa

Student visa for vocational or non-academic studies.

N – Naturalization

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen.

O – O-1 Visa

Visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in arts, sciences, athletics, or business.

P – P Visa

Visa for athletes, entertainers, and cultural performers.

Q – Q Visa

Cultural exchange visa for international participants in designated U.S. programs.

R – R-1 Visa

Religious worker visa.

S – Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)

Visa for individuals who assisted U.S. forces abroad, such as translators and allies.

T – T Visa

Visa for victims of human trafficking.

U – U Visa

Visa for crime victims who assist law enforcement.

V – Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Allows citizens of specific countries to travel to the U.S. for short visits without a visa.

W – Waiver of Ineligibility

A request to overcome visa denials due to inadmissibility.

X – Expedited Processing

Fast-tracking visa applications for urgent cases.

Y – Youth Visa Programs

Visas for young professionals and students, such as J-1 and F-1.

Z – Zero-Tolerance Policy

A strict immigration enforcement approach that affects visa approvals and entries.