immigrant visa
An immigrant visa is a document issued by a U.S. consular officer abroad that allows a foreign citizen to travel to the United States and apply for admission as a legal permanent resident.
In general, in order to be eligible to apply for an immigrant visa, a foreign citizen must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative or by a prospective employer. Additionally the Diversity Visa provides a certain number of permanent resident visas annually.
Definition from Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary
A type of U.S. visa that a U.S. consulate or embassy issues to people who have just qualified for U.S. permanent residence (a "green card"). The immigrant visa enables the holder to enter the United States, take up permanent residence, and receive his or her green card.
Definition provided by Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary.
August 19, 2010, 5:17 pm
