Words you may come across
Plain-language definitions with official sources.
EAD
Employment Authorization Document, a document that shows permission to work for the period stated.
Official source. Checked October 18, 2026.
USCIS
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the federal agency that handles many immigration benefit requests.
Official source. Checked October 18, 2026.
A-number
An identifying number used in some immigration records. Keep this number private.
Official source. Checked October 18, 2026.
Advance parole
A document used to request permission to return after travel. It does not guarantee admission. Get individual legal advice before travel.
Official source. Checked October 18, 2026.
ITIN
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, a federal tax-processing number. It does not give permission to work.
Official source. Checked October 18, 2026.
Public charge
A term used in some immigration decisions about whether a person is likely to depend mainly on government support. Which rule applies requires individual review.
Official source. Checked October 18, 2026.