Definition
REAL ID
A federal identification standard for state-issued IDs used to board domestic flights.
REAL ID is a federal law requiring states to verify identity and lawful status before issuing compliant driver's licenses and ID cards. Beginning in May 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license, U.S. passport, or other federally accepted ID is required for domestic flights and federal building entry.
See also
More immigration terms
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Reentry Permit
A travel document allowing an LPR to remain abroad for up to 2 years without losing status.
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Refugee
A person granted protection from outside the U.S. before entering.
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Removal Proceedings
Immigration court hearings to determine whether a noncitizen must leave the U.S.
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RFE
Request for Evidence — USCIS letter asking for more documents before deciding.
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Social Security Administration
The federal agency that issues Social Security numbers to eligible noncitizens.
Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.