Recursos de Inmigración

Adjustment of Status

The process of applying for a green card while inside the United States.

Asylum

Protection granted to eligible individuals who have been persecuted or fear persecution in their home country.

BIA

Board of Immigration Appeals — the highest administrative tribunal for interpreting and applying immigration laws.

Consular Processing

Obtaining an immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.

DACA

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals — a program protecting certain childhood arrivals from deportation.

EAD

Employment Authorization Document — a work permit issued by USCIS.

Green Card

Permanent resident card allowing the holder to live and work permanently in the United States.

I-130

Petition for Alien Relative — the first step in family-based immigration petitions.

I-485

Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

NOID

Notice of Intent to Deny — a USCIS notice when required initial evidence was submitted but does not establish eligibility. Maximum response time: 30 days (plus 3 mailing days if served by mail). Additional time may not be granted.

NTA

Notice to Appear — a document initiating removal proceedings in immigration court.

RFE

Request for Evidence — a USCIS notice requesting additional evidence. Under Policy Alert PA-2026-05 (Aug. 5, 2026), USCIS may deny without first issuing an RFE if required initial evidence is missing. Maximum response period: 12 weeks (plus 3 mailing days if served by mail). Additional time may not be granted.

USCIS

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services — the government agency overseeing immigration benefits.

Visa Bulletin

Monthly publication by the State Department showing which immigrant visa numbers are available.