What are the Types of Immigration Statuses?
Individuals in the United States are generally classified into one of four different statuses, which describe their rights as citizens or non-citizens, including lawful U.S. citizens, conditional and permanent residents, non-immigrants, and undocumented immigrants. Each separate status gives different citizenship privileges and opportunities under U.S. law.
For more than 20 years, individuals throughout the United States seeking to upgrade their residency status have looked to the immigration attorneys at Bassey Immigration Law Center in Tampa and Clearwater, Florida, for the highest level of professional legal assistance. If you have questions about your status or how to change it, an immigration lawyer from our firm is your best resource.
Lawful U.S. Citizens
Persons born in the U.S. or its territories or who proceed through a naturalization process have the full rights and benefits of United States citizenship, including the right to vote, work, earn income, and receive public benefits from federal, state, and local governments. For most non-U.S. citizens, the path to lawful U.S. citizenship through naturalization is typically three to five years long.
Conditional and Permanent Residents
Permanent residents have received a green card through sponsorship by an employer or family member or, in some cases, through an asylum application. Conditional residents are generally non-citizen spouses where the couple has been married for more than two years. Specific rules and regulations govern conditional residency status. Talk to an experienced immigration lawyer if you have any questions or concerns.
Non-Immigrants
Non-immigrants temporarily reside in the United States for work, travel, or other short-term purposes. Most non-immigrants hold visas, which determine how long they may legally remain in the United States. Overstaying the term of a visa can have adverse consequences if they later seek permanent residency or lawful U.S. citizenship status.
Undocumented Immigrants
Persons who enter the U.S. without a visa or other legitimate travel purpose are subject to deportation and possible criminal charges, depending on how and where they crossed a U.S. border. U.S. immigration laws and policies on undocumented immigrants are in a constant state of flux. If authorities determine that you are an undocumented immigrant, contact an Immigration appeals lawyer immediately to challenge that status through all available legal means.
Call the Immigration Attorneys at the Bassey Immigration Law Center
The immigration attorneys at Bassey Immigration Law Center help non-U.S. citizens across the United States manage their immigration matters, including status changes, visa applications, appeals, and petitions for naturalization.
Understanding your immigration status and verifying that you are on a clear path to permanent residency and naturalization are crucial steps at every stage of your entry and residency in the United States. We aim to ease that process and confirm that your status is correct and the relevant laws are working entirely in your favor. Schedule an affordable consultation today.
About Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A.
Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A., led by attorney Aniefiok Bassey, provides comprehensive immigration services to individuals, families, and businesses in Florida and beyond. With over 20 years of experience, the firm assists clients with a wide range of immigration matters, from family reunification and green cards to business visas and deportation defense. The diverse, multilingual team is dedicated to supporting clients through the complex immigration process, with a special focus on citizenship, asylum, and LGBTQ+ immigration needs. They offer affordable initial consultations and are committed to delivering personalized, strategic guidance for achieving clients’ immigration goals.
