Immigration to the US is highly competitive and, depending on an individual’s situation, can be a lengthy and complicated process. Immigration procedures and requirements are broadly divided into three categories: those attempting to immigrate on the basis of a family relationship, those attempting to immigrate for employment, and those entering the US for the purposes of study.
The US government considers an immigrant to be someone who is not a US citizen, but who has received clearance to permanently reside in the US. Immigrants must receive immigrant numbers. A potential immigrate may not enter the US until an immigrant number becomes available, even if their application is successful and they meet all requirements. Immigrant numbers are issued on an annual basis, with a set amount of numbers for each country. It is possible for the application process to stretch into years while successful applicants wait for an immigrant number. This is more likely for applicants from countries where immigration to the US is pursued amidst intense competition.
Employers or family members initiate the immigration process by filing a petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the petition is approved and there is an available immigrant visa number, then a number will be assigned. At that point the immigrant must complete the application process at a US consulate if they are abroad, or at a USCIS center if they are already in the United States.
Students are not considered immigrants because they are intending to remain in the US for a set time for a specific purpose. Even so, a visa may be required for those intending to study in the US. Students must apply to schools approved by USCIS. The entry procedure begins after the school has accepted the potential student. Work permits for those in the US as students are rather limited, with vocational students generally having more opportunities than academic students. Students are permitted to bring their spouses and children less than 21. A student’s family will enter with non-immigrant status. Students are usually allowed to remain in the US for the duration of their studies.