Confused by immigration jargon? This glossary defines visas, residency, citizenship, and more in plain English.
A
Asylum Seeker
A person fleeing persecution who has applied for protection in another country but hasn’t yet received approval.
B
Beneficiary
The person receiving immigration benefits through sponsorship, such as a spouse being sponsored for permanent residency.
C
Citizenship
Full legal membership in a country with rights like voting and passports. It may also include responsibilities like paying taxes or military service.
Citizenship by Descent
Acquiring citizenship through citizen parents or grandparents.
Citizenship by Investment
Obtaining citizenship through qualifying investments like real estate or business ventures.
D
Digital Nomad
A person who works remotely while traveling internationally, often using tourist visas or special digital nomad visas.
Dual Citizenship
Legally holding citizenship in two countries simultaneously.
E
Emigrant
A person leaving their home country to settle elsewhere.
Expat (Expatriate)
Someone living temporarily or permanently outside their native country, often for work.
F
Family Office
Private advisory firms assisting high-net-worth family with wealth strategies.
Family Sponsorship
Process where citizens or permanent residents sponsor relatives for immigration.
I
Immigrant
A person arriving in a new country to settle permanently.
N
Naturalization
The legal process of becoming a citizen after meeting residency requirements.
P
Permanent Residency (PR)
Status allowing indefinite living and working rights in a country without full citizenship.
R
Residency
Legal permission to live in a country, either temporary or permanent.
S
Status (Legal Immigration Status)
A person’s official immigration category.
Common Status Types:
- Visitor Status
- Student Status
- Worker Status
- Permanent Resident
- Protected Person
Spousal Sponsorship
Family sponsorship specifically for spouses or common-law partners.
T
Tax Residency
The country where you’re legally obligated to pay taxes.
V
Visa
Official authorization to enter a country for specific purposes.
Common Visa Types:
- Work Visa
- Business Visa
- Working Holiday Visa
- Student Visa
- Investor Visa
W
Work Permit
Temporary authorization to work in a country.