Definition
Immediate Relative
Spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent of a U.S. citizen — uncapped and not subject to Visa Bulletin.
Immediate relatives are exempt from annual numerical caps, meaning a visa is always immediately available. Their cases move as fast as USCIS and DOS can adjudicate them, typically 8 to 14 months for adjustment of status.
See also
More immigration terms
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INA
Immigration and Nationality Act — the main federal immigration law.
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INA §245(i)
A grandfathered provision letting certain people adjust status despite unlawful entry.
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INA §245(k)
A provision letting certain employment-based applicants forgive short status violations.
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Inadmissibility
Legal grounds that prevent a noncitizen from entering or obtaining status in the U.S.
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Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
A 9-digit IRS-issued number used by noncitizens who cannot obtain an SSN.
Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.