Adjustment of status
General
A process to change to a different status without leaving the country, when permitted.
Immigration Glossary
Clear definitions of common terms used in visa and immigration guidance.
Definitions are general and may vary by country or visa type. For official meaning, refer to the linked sources in each guide.
10 terms · plain-language definitions · updated as guides expand
Terms A–Z
Search by keyword or jump to a letter. Terms marked U.S. are common in United States guidance.
Showing 10 of 10 terms
Consular processing
General
Applying for a visa outside the country at an embassy or consulate.
Department of State (DOS)
U.S.
U.S. agency that oversees visa processing at embassies and consulates.
DS-160
U.S.Forms
The standard online application form for many U.S. nonimmigrant visas.
DS-260
U.S.Forms
The online immigrant visa application used for many U.S. immigrant visa cases.
ESTA
U.S.
An electronic travel authorization required for most VWP travelers before boarding.
Petition
General
A request submitted to a government agency asking for a specific immigration benefit.
Reciprocity schedule
U.S.
Country-specific guidance on visa fees, validity, and document requirements.
USCIS
U.S.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, responsible for immigration benefits and petitions.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
U.S.
A program that allows eligible travelers to enter without a visa for short stays, subject to rules.
More terms on the way
We add definitions as country guides expand. Definitions here are general — always confirm meaning in the official source cited in the relevant guide.
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