When traveling to a foreign land, you must know the regulations and laws of that place. Especially the rules that concern you and however things work there for immigrants. Your immigrant status might vary depending on your purpose for visiting another country. In addition, it also depends on the time you spend in a country, your career, or the personal choices you make along the way. For example, you want to pursue a degree or any education in America. In that case, you will most likely visit the country on a student visa, which will have a period similar to your university or course term.
No matter what type of immigrant you are, if you face any legal issues or are looking to upgrade your visa, you must contact an immigration lawyer in NY before participating in legal proceedings.
Primary immigration statuses that every immigrant must know about
- US Citizen
Most people born and brought up in America are considered US citizens. Even if you are not American, but your parents were US citizens when you were born, you might get the status and rights of an American citizen. In addition, people who live in different countries after their birth in America are also considered citizens of the country.
Being a United States citizen means you possess the right to live, work and create a life in America without any barriers. Once you are a US citizen, this country becomes your homeland, and you can stay here for as long as you wish.
In addition, US citizens do not have any restrictions in terms of living, working, or studying in the country as opposed to other immigrants who might face specific legal and systematic barriers. Nevertheless, a US citizen has several perks regarding federal rights, like getting student loans and participating in or getting assistance for mother social services.
- LPR or Lawful Permanent Residency
A lawful permanent residency is granted to immigrants who have completed a certain number of years in America and have been working there the whole time. Legal permanent residents have similar rights to US citizens. However, they will not have all the benefits that the original citizens have in the country.
For example, lawful permanent residents do not have permission to vote or get benefits from certain social services for which US citizens are eligible. Nevertheless, immigrants possessing LPR can also work and stay in the US for as long as they want. Lawful permanent residents hold a green card which is their certification that they have gained the permission of federal arthritis to create a life and family in the US.