It is important to familiarize yourself with the following immigration terms and abbreviations. These are common immigration terms used at USCIS offices, United States Embassies, and United States Consulates. You will also find these terms in immigration forms and other legal documents.

Our Glossary of Immigration Terms is organized in alphabetical order and divided into sections due to its extensive size. Use the menu below to locate the term you are looking for.

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J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
J-1 visas are issued to individuals who take part in a wide range of exchange visitor programs sponsored by schools, businesses and a variety of organizations and institutions. The individual's Form I-94 should be marked "J-1" in addition to the letters "D/S" (Duration of Status). The duration of stay is the period of time that is noted on Form IAP-66/DS-2019.

Joint Sponsor
The description of a person who accepts legal responsibility for supporting an immigrant with an I-864 Affidavit of Support along with the sponsor. There are certain requirements for joint sponsors: he or she must be at least 18 years of age, an American citizen or lawful permanent resident and have a domicile in the United States.

Jurisdiction
The term used to describe the level of authority to apply the law in a given territory or region.

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► Click on the letters above for more U.S. Immigration Terms.