Immigration Document Glossary

U.S. Immigration Terms, Documents, & Agencies Glossary

The webpage lists frequently used immigration-related terms, documents, and U.S. government agencies that appear throughout the ISO website, resources, and U.S. government materials. Individuals are strongly encouraged to review these definitions to understand U.S. immigration procedures and requirements better.

U.S. IMMIGRATION TERMS & DEFINITIONS

Nonimmigrant vs. Immigrant Category

Every individual entering the United States who is not a U.S. citizen is classified under one of two immigration categories: “Nonimmigrant” or “Immigrant”. Understanding the difference between these classifications is essential for maintaining lawful U.S. immigration status.

  • Nonimmigrant Category: This category applies to individuals who enter the U.S. for a specific, temporary purpose, such as tourism, business, study, or short-term work/employment.
    • F and J Categories at MIT: All MIT international students and their dependents in F or J status are considered nonimmigrants. These individuals MUST demonstrate their intent to return to their home country upon completion of their authorized stay in the U.S.
    • Temporary Intent Requirement: To qualify for a “nonimmigrant” visa/status, applicants MUST clearly establish temporary intent. If a consular officer determines that an applicant appears to have both temporary and permanent intentions, the visa application will be denied for showing “dual” or “immigrant” intent.
    • A nonimmigrant visa applicant MUST clearly demonstrate that their visit is temporary and aligns with the purpose of their immigration category (i.e., Study/Academic).
  • Immigrant Category: This category applies to individuals who intend to reside permanently in the U.S. Common terms for this classification include Permanent Resident, Green Card Holder, Immigrant, or Resident Alien.
  • Dual Intent: The dual intent concept applies ONLY to specific U.S. immigration categories, such as H, L, or O status. Individuals in these categories may temporarily live and work in the U.S. while pursuing status under an immigrant category.

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U.S. Visa Sticker/Stamp vs. U.S. Immigration Status

Many individuals mistakenly believe that a U.S. entry visa sticker/stamp determines their U.S. immigration status. In fact, a visa sticker/stamp serves ONLY as an “entry document” into the U.S.

  • Once Admitted into the U.S.: Individuals in F or J status MUST always keep the following documents valid, as they determine their U.S. immigration status:
    • Passport: Individuals in F or J status MUST have an unexpired passport, valid for at least six (6) months into the future, at all times.
    • Certificate of Eligibility Document: The Form I-20 (for F-1) or Form DS-2019 (for J-1) MUST remain valid and reflect correct and up-to-date information.
  • Key Points:
    • A U.S. visa sticker/stamp functions like a house key; it is REQUIRED to enter the U.S., but is not needed to remain lawfully in the country.
    • Once inside the U.S., the visa sticker/stamp may expire without affecting the individual’s legal status or eligibility for certain benefits, such as transferring schools or applying for work/employment authorization (e.g., F-1 CPT/OPT or J-1 Academic Training).
    • However, if a person in F or J status leaves the U.S. after their visa sticker/stamp has expired, they MUST obtain a new one BEFORE returning to continue their studies or authorized work/employment activities.

IMPORTANT: Citizens of Canada and Bermuda are EXEMPT from the U.S. entry visa sticker/stamp requirement. However, they MUST possess all other required documentation when entering the U.S. through a U.S. Port of Entry (POE).

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U.S. Student Immigration Statuses (F-1/J-1)

MIT Student Classifications: Individuals studying or planning to study at MIT under F-1 or J-1 immigration status are classified into one of the following three categories:

  • 1) New/Incoming Student: Applies to all “New/Incoming”, “Return from Leave of Absence (RLOA)”, and “Transfer-In” students.
  • 2) Current/Continuing Student: An individual who has already made their initial entry to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status, been registered in SEVIS, and who has begun their MIT academic program.
  • 3) Alumni Student: A student who has finished their academic program at MIT and is in a period of work/employment authorization (e.g., F-1 OPT or J-1 Academic Training).

U.S. Immigration Status Requirements: Individuals studying or planning to study at MIT MUST hold a U.S. immigration status that permits academic study in the U.S., typically F-1 or J-1 status:

  • F-1 Student Status: A nonimmigrant student enrolled in a full course of study at an SEVP-approved academic institution or accredited language program, whose Form I-20 documents are approved by the Designated School Official (DSO).
    • F-2 Dependent: The spouse or unmarried child under age 21 of an F-1 student.
      • NOTE: F-2 dependents are NOT permitted to work in the U.S. and can ONLY study under certain conditions.
    • Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Authorization for off-campus work/employment that is an integral part of an F-1 student’s curriculum.
    • Optional Practical Training (OPT): Authorization for off-campus work/employment allowing F-1 students to engage in training related to their field of study, either before (Pre-Completion OPT) or after (Post-Completion OPT) degree completion.
  • J-1 Exchange Visitor (Student) Status: A foreign national sponsored by a U.S. Department of State–designated program to participate in educational or cultural exchange activities.
    • Academic Training (AT): Authorization for off-campus work/employment for J-1 students to gain practical experience related to their field of study during or after completion of the educational program.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Other Immigration Classifications: For a comprehensive list of all non-immigrant U.S. immigration status categories, individuals should refer directly to the U.S. Department of State (DOS) website [here].

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Duration of Status (D/S)

The term “Duration of Status” or “D/S” means the amount of time a person is allowed to stay in the U.S., provided they continue to maintain their lawful immigration status.

  • When entering the U.S., a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer issues an I-94 Record that lists the individual’s immigration status (e.g., F-1/F-2 or J-1/J-2) and the notation “D/S” (Duration of Status).
    • This designation means the individual may legally remain in the U.S. as long as they continue to meet ALL immigration requirements and their required documents remain valid and accurate.

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Grace Period

A “Grace Period” is an authorized period of stay in the U.S. following the completion of an academic program or authorized practical training, where Individuals may remain in the U.S.

A “Grace Period” is an authorized period of stay in the U.S. following the completion of an academic program or authorized practical training, where Individuals may remain in the U.S.

  • During the Grace Period: No study or work/employment of any kind is permitted. BEFORE the Grace Period ends, the individual MUST take one (1) of the following actions:
    • 1) Apply for U.S. work/employment authorization (i.e., F-1 OPT/J-1 AT).
    • 2) Apply for a change of immigration status within the U.S.
    • 3) Transfer to another academic program/institution in the U.S.
    • 5) Depart the U.S.
  • Length of the Grace Period:
  • Leaving the U.S. During the F-1 or J-1 Grace Period: Individuals in F-1 or J-1 status who leave the U.S. during their grace period automatically end their F or J status on the day they depart.
    • This applies to BOTH the F-1/J-1 student and any F-2/J-2 dependents. Once they leave the U.S., they CANNOT return in F or J status, as their departure FORFEITS the remaining grace period and any eligibility for U.S. off-campus work/employment benefits (i.e., F-1 OPT/J-1 AT).
      • Example: If an F-1 student’s 60-day grace period is from June 1 to July 29, and the student departs the U.S. on July 2, then July 2 becomes the final day of the student’s F-1 status (and any dependent F-2 status).
        • After July 2, the student and dependents CANNOT re-enter the U.S. using F status. To return, they MUST use another U.S. immigration status (such as B-1/B-2, ESTA, or another eligible category).

ATTENTION: Individuals should review their travel plans carefully to avoid unintentionally losing status.

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Travel Signature

IMPORTANT REMINDER: A valid travel signature on a Form I-20/Form DS-2019 is NOT required to exit/depart the U.S. It is ONLY needed for entry into the U.S.

MIT-sponsored international students MUST follow the instructions on the ISO website to obtain a travel signature. A travel signature confirms that an F-1 or J-1 student is maintaining lawful immigration status and is eligible to enter the U.S. after travel abroad.

  • Travel Signature Location:
    • For F-1/F-2 status, on page 2 of the Form I-20.
    • For J-1/J-2 status, on page 1 of the Form DS-2019.
  • Travel Signature Validity: The validity period of a travel signature depends on the individual’s current student category:
    • New/Incoming Students: A travel signature is NOT required before entering the U.S. Refer to the ISO website [here] for detailed information.
    • Current F-1 or J-1 Students (Active in an MIT Program): A travel signature is valid for twelve (12) months from the date it was signed.
      • Example: A travel signature issued on September 14 [current year] remains valid for multiple entries to the U.S. until September 13 [following year], or until the program end date, whichever comes first.
    • Alumni F-1 or J-1 Students (on OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training): A travel signature is valid for six (6) months from the date it was signed.
      • Example: A travel signature issued on January 14 [current year] remains valid for multiple entries to the U.S. until July 13 [current year], or until the authorized practical training ends, whichever comes first.

CRITICAL REMINDER: Individuals are responsible for ensuring their travel signature is valid upon entry to the U.S. Requests for updated travel signatures should be submitted well in advance of travel through the procedures outlined on the ISO website [here].

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Designated School Official (DSO)

A Designated School Official (DSO) is an individual authorized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to serve as the main point of contact between MIT-sponsored F-1 international students, the Institute, and the U.S. government. At MIT, all ISO staff members are designated as DSOs. However, individuals should always contact their assigned ISO Advisor for guidance.

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Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO)

An Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) is an individual authorized by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to serve as the main point of contact between MIT-sponsored J-1 international students, the Institute, and the U.S. government. At MIT, all ISO staff members are designated as AROs. However, individuals should always contact their assigned ISO Advisor for guidance.

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Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor

An Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor is an organization designated by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to administer a DOS-approved J Exchange Visitor Program.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Only designated sponsors are authorized to issue a Form DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility document. To determine who an individual’s J program sponsor is, they MUST review Box #7 of their Form DS-2019.

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U.S. Port of Entry (POE)

A POE is a specific location where an individual enters the U.S. This may include a U.S. airport, seaport, or land border crossing where Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers inspect and admit travelers into the country.

IMPORTANT NOTE: A POE can also be located outside the U.S.

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212(e)

A 212e is the “Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement,” requiring individuals in J status (J-1 and J-2) to return to their home country for two years before becoming eligible for specific U.S. immigration benefits/statuses (e.g., H-1B, L-1, or permanent residency). More information can be found on the ISO website [here].

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Unlawful Presence (ULP)

Unlawful Presence (ULP) is when an individual is in the U.S. without a valid immigration status. This happens if they did not enter legally or stayed longer than allowed.

COMPLIANCE ALERT: Accumulating more than 180 days of unlawful presence during a single stay can result in a three-year or ten-year ban from entering the U.S.

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Adjudication

Adjudication refers to the official review and decision process used by a U.S. government agency to determine the outcome of a request for an immigration benefit (such as a visa sticker/stamp, work/employment authorization, or change of status approval).

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U.S. IMMIGRATION DOCUMENTS & FORMS

Passport

An official document issued by a government that verifies a person’s identity and citizenship, permitting international travel under that government’s protection.

  • Passport Biographical Page (Bio Page): The main page of a passport contains the holder’s name, date of birth, nationality, and identifying details. This page MUST be valid and readable for all travel.

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“Certificate of Eligibility” Documents

It is a document used to verify an individual’s U.S. Nonimmigrant Status. This document may vary depending on immigration status. However, the most commonly used “Certificate of Eligibility” immigration documents at MIT are the Form I-20 (for F status) and the Form DS-2019 (for J status).

Form I-20:

  • A Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status,” confirms an individual’s eligibility for and provides proof of F status. A Form I-20:
  • Is issued by a SEVP-certified institution, where an individual is enrolling/enrolled.
  • Outlines key details, including personal, academic, financial, and duration information, as well as relevant immigration regulations.
  • Is REQUIRED to apply for a visa sticker/stamp, maintain status, and request certain F-1 benefits such as OPT or CPT.
    • A sample Form I-20 can be found [here] on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Study in the States website.

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Form DS-2019:

  • A Form DS-2019, “Certificate of Eligibility for J-1 Exchange Visitor Status,” confirms an individual’s eligibility for and provides proof of J status. A Form DS-2019:
  • Is issued by a U.S. Department of State (DOS) designated Exchange Visitor Program (i.e., Fulbright) – OR – a SEVP-certified institution, where an individual is enrolling/enrolled (i.e., MIT).
  • Outlines key details, including personal, academic, financial, and duration information, as well as relevant immigration regulations.
  • Is REQUIRED to apply for a visa sticker/stamp, maintain status, and request certain J-1 benefits such as Academic Training (AT).
    • A sample Form DS-2019 can be found [here] on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Study in the States website.

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I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

The Form I-94 serves as proof of legal entry and authorized stay in the U.S. An I-94 record:

  • Lists the individual’s name, date of birth, country of citizenship, immigration class of admission (e.g., F-1/J-1), and an “admitted until” date/authorized period of stay (e.g., “D/S”).
    • NOTE: The I-94 system retains ONLY the most recent five (5) years of an individual’s travel history. Therefore, all individuals MUST verify the accuracy of their I-94 record after EVERY entry into the U.S. and save a copy as part of their personal immigration documentation history.
  • The electronic record can be accessed at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website [here].
    • NOTE: If errors are found, individuals MUST review the ISO website [here] for instructions.

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U.S. Visa Sticker/Stamp

A visa sticker/stamp is placed in an individual’s passport by a U.S. Embassy/Consulate. It serves as a travel document and permits authorization to request entry into the U.S. at a USCIS Port of Entry (POE), for a specific immigration status (e.g., F-1/F-2 or J-1/J-2).

  • NOTE: A valid visa sticker/stamp is required ONLY for entry to the U.S. and is allowed to expire while the individual remains in a valid U.S. immigration status.
    • An example of a U.S. F-1/F-2 or J-1/J-2 visa sticker/stamp can be found on the ISO website [here].

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Form I-901 SEVIS Fee Payment

Proof of payment of the I-901 SEVIS Fee (also referred to as the SEVIS fee) is REQUIRED before an individual may apply for an F or J visa sticker/stamp.

  • The I-901 SEVIS Fee MUST be paid online through the official U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website [here] at https://fmjfee.com.

ATTENTION: The I-901 SEVIS Fee is separate from the Form DS-160 visa sticker/stamp application fee.

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Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)

The Form DS-160 is an online electronic application form submitted through the U.S. Department of State (DOS) website for individuals applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa sticker/stamp.

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Form I-515A (Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor)

The Form I-515A is a temporary 30-calendar-day entry document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when an individual in F or J status lacks the required documentation for entry into the U.S.

  • NOTE: Individuals who have been issued an I-515A MUST resolve the issue within 30 calendar days to maintain lawful status.
    • Failure to comply with the requirement could result in the termination of the individual’s F or J status/SEVIS record.
    • If received, contact an ISO Advisor immediately for guidance.

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Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification)

U.S. employers use this form to verify an individual’s identity and eligibility to work in the U.S.

  • NOTE: Individuals in F-1 or J-1 status at MIT who receive a Research Assistantship (RA), Teaching Assistantship (TA), or Fellowship Award from MIT that requires service components will need to complete the Form I-9 with MIT.
    • Refer to The I-9 Process at MIT webpage and also the ISO Social Security Number (SSN) webpage for additional information.  

ATTENTION: Some fellowship awards without service components may not be classified as on-campus work/employment. Individuals who are uncertain about their fellowship’s classification should confirm with their MIT academic department.

COMPLIANCE REMINDER: When a Research Assistantship (RA), Teaching Assistantship (TA), or Fellowship Award is classified as on-campus work/employment, it counts as the full 20-hour-per-week work/employment limit allowed under U.S. immigration regulations for F-1 and J-1 students.

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Form I-797 (Notice of Action)

An official notice issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to confirm the receipt, approval, denial, withdrawal, or other action taken on an application or petition submitted to USCIS.

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Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)

The Form I-765 is used by eligible nonimmigrants, such as individuals in F-1 status seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT), to request U.S. work/employment authorization.

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EAD Card (Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD card), also known as Form I-766, is issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

  • An EAD card serves as official evidence that a non-citizen can engage in authorized work/employment in the U.S.
    • A sample Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card is available on the USCIS website [here].
  • For F-1 students, this card is issued following OPT or STEM OPT approval.
  • For J-2 dependents, this card is issued after J-2 work/employment authorization is approved.

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Request for Evidence (RFE)

  • A Request for Evidence (RFE) is a formal notice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requesting additional documentation or information to support a decision on an immigration application or petition.
    • NOTE: Receiving an RFE DOES NOT mean an application is denied, but it does stop the processing of the application or petition case until the individual responds with the requested information by the given deadline.

CRITICAL WARNING: Failure to respond on time to the RFE will result in USCIS DENYING the application or petition.

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KEY U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES & OFFICES

U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)

  • DOL is a federal executive department that promotes and protects workers’ welfare and is responsible for enforcing labor standards, such as wage and hour regulations, ensuring workplace safety, and administering programs related to wages, employment, unemployment benefits, and labor statistics.

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U.S. Department of State (DOS)

  • DOS is a federal executive department responsible for foreign policy and relations. This includes all U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad, as well as the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, which oversees all individuals in the J Exchange Visitor Program.
    • NOTE: DOS designates and partners with government agencies, academic institutions, educational and cultural organizations, and corporations as sponsors for the J Exchange Visitor Program.

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U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

  • DHS is a federal executive department responsible for protecting the U.S. and overseeing immigration, border security, and public safety through several key agencies across various domains, including CBP, ICE, USCIS, and SEVP.
    • Its functions are comparable to those of interior or public security ministries in other countries.

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U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP)

  • CBP is the federal agency responsible for enforcing U.S. immigration and customs laws, safeguarding national security, and protecting U.S. agriculture at all Ports of Entry (air, land, and sea).
  • When individuals enter the U.S., CBP officers review each traveler’s documents to determine eligibility for admission and ensure compliance with U.S. entry regulations. Additional information on entering the U.S. can be found in the Additional Resources section of this webpage.

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U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE)

  • ICE is the federal agency responsible for enforcing U.S. laws related to immigration, customs, and border security.
    • ICE also oversees the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which manages compliance, reporting, and oversight for individuals in F and M statuses.

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U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS)

  • USCIS is the federal agency that administers lawful immigration in the U.S. Its responsibilities include processing petitions and applications for citizenship, immigration benefits, and work/employment authorization, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students and other related U.S. work/employment authorizations.

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Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)

  • SEVP is a federal agency within the DHS and ICE divisions that regulates and monitors U.S. schools and programs authorized to enroll F, M, and J nonimmigrant students.
    • SEVP ensures institutional compliance with federal regulations, including reporting and recordkeeping requirements for nonimmigrant student enrollment and status maintenance.

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Student & Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)

  • SEVIS is a web-based database maintained by the DHS. It manages information about international students, exchange visitors, and the U.S. schools and programs authorized to host them.
  • Additional information regarding entry into the U.S. can be found on the DHS Study in the States website [here].

IMPORTANT: At MIT, the International Students Office (ISO) ensures SEVIS compliance for the Institute and provides advising and support to all MIT-sponsored F and J international students and exchange visitors, helping them maintain lawful status in the U.S.

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

MIT Resources

  • Special Topics in Immigration and International Travel (OGC) webpage
  • MIT Global Support Resources – Travel and Safety Abroad website
  • Technology Tips For Travelers (IS&T) webpage
    • International Travel Considerations section

ISO Resources

U.S. Government Resources

  • The U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) Guidelines For Travel Re-Entry For F-1 Nonimmigrants webpage
  • The U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) Travel for International Visitors webpage
  • The U.S. Department of State (DOS) J-1 Exchange Visitor Entering the United States information
  • The U.S. Department of State (DOS) J-1 Exchange Visitor webpage

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Disclaimer: The information on this webpage is only for MIT-sponsored students.

For additional questions, students should first review the ISO website thoroughly. They are encouraged to use the ISO search tool (located at the top of the ISO website) or consult the comprehensive FAQ section in the ISO Knowledge Base. MIT students may also contact their designated ISO Advisor directly for assistance.

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MIT Division of Graduate and Undergraduate Education