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H-1B Immigration Legal Glossary

Immigration law uses specialized terminology. This glossary defines key terms in plain language to support your understanding of immigration law.

Notice to Appear (NTA)

A formal document from DHS initiating removal proceedings.

Request for Evidence (RFE)

A USCIS notice requesting additional documentation before a decision.

Labor Condition Application (LCA)

An employer attestation required before filing an H-1B petition.

USCIS

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency that adjudicates immigration benefits.

Form I-129

The petition form used by employers to sponsor H-1B workers.

Prevailing Wage

The minimum wage employers must pay H-1B workers, determined by the DOL.

Premium Processing

Expedited USCIS adjudication within 15 business days for an additional fee.

SOC Code

Standard Occupational Classification code used to classify occupations for wage purposes.

AC21

American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act, providing H-1B portability and extensions.

INA

Immigration and Nationality Act, the primary federal immigration statute.