Navigating U.S. immigration terminology can be confusing, especially when multiple documents govern different aspects of your legal presence in the United States. Three critical concepts that every nonimmigrant visa holder must understand are visa validity, I-94 arrival/departure records, and duration of status (D/S). While these terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, they serve distinct purposes and have different legal implications.

  Introduction   The myth exists that the only way to obtain a green card or lawful permanent residence (LPR) status in the U.S. is through marriage.   Certainly, this method of immigrating to the U.S. is well-publicized and is also the plotline of many entertaining movies and television shows.  The truth is, however, there

Under Executive Order 14161 (January 20, 2025), USCIS has implemented stricter vetting and anti-fraud measures for marriage-based green card applicants, increasing scrutiny and procedural requirements. Changes include mandatory use of…

Green card holders or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) have the right to live permanently in the U.S., provided they do not commit any actions that make them removable under immigration law, such as breaking laws or not filing taxes…

So, you have an approved I-130, I-140, or other basis to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident (LPR), and now it has come time for the green card interview. This momentous interview can be seen as an obstacle on the path to becoming an LPR or it can…