What is a Temporary Resident? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A temporary resident is a person who is not a U.S. citizen and seeks to enter the United States for a limited time and for a specific purpose. This individual must have a permanent home in another country and meet the requirements for the nonimmigrant classification they are applying for.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A student from Brazil obtains a student visa to study at a U.S. university for four years. They are considered a temporary resident during their studies.

Example 2: A business professional from Germany enters the U.S. on a business visa to attend meetings for three months. They hold temporary resident status for the duration of their visit.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Temporary Resident A non-citizen with a limited duration of stay in the U.S. Must have a permanent residence abroad.
Permanent Resident A non-citizen who has been granted the right to live permanently in the U.S. Does not require a permanent residence abroad.
Visitor A person entering the U.S. for tourism or business for a short time. Typically a specific type of temporary resident with limited activities allowed.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are seeking temporary resident status, start by determining the appropriate nonimmigrant classification for your situation. Gather the necessary documentation and consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to simplify the process. If your case is complex, it may be beneficial to consult with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Duration of Stay Varies by visa type; typically limited to a few months to several years.
Accompanied Family Spouses and unmarried minor children can often accompany temporary residents.
Work Authorization Depends on the specific visa classification; not all temporary residents can work.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A temporary resident has a limited duration of stay and must maintain a permanent residence abroad, while a permanent resident has the right to live in the U.S. indefinitely.