Understanding the Legal Definition of Alien Son or Daughter

Definition & Meaning

An alien son or daughter is defined as a person who is not a U.S. citizen but has been granted lawful permanent residence in the United States due to their relationship as a child of an individual who is a lawful permanent resident through a qualifying marriage. This status is established under federal law, which allows for family reunification and immigration benefits for immediate family members.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A child born in Mexico to a U.S. lawful permanent resident can apply for permanent residency in the U.S. as an alien son or daughter.

Example 2: A legally adopted child from the Philippines of a U.S. citizen may qualify for permanent residency under the same provisions (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Alien A person who is not a citizen or national of the United States.
Lawful Permanent Resident A non-citizen who has been granted the right to live permanently in the U.S.
Qualifying Marriage A legally recognized marriage that meets specific immigration criteria.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you qualify as an alien son or daughter, you should gather necessary documentation, including proof of your relationship to the lawful permanent resident. Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates for immigration applications. If your situation is complex, consulting with an immigration attorney may be beneficial.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Eligibility Child of a lawful permanent resident through qualifying marriage
Application Process File with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Legal Reference 8 USCS § 1186a

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

An alien son or daughter is not a U.S. citizen and must apply for permanent residency, while a U.S. citizen child automatically has citizenship rights.