What do you call someone who is not a US citizen? Navigating the Terms for Non-Americans

What do you call someone who is not a US citizen? Navigating the Terms for Non-Americans

When you encounter someone who isn't an American citizen, what's the right term to use? It might seem straightforward, but there are nuances and preferred terminology depending on the context. For the average American reader, understanding these terms can help foster clearer communication and avoid misunderstandings.

The Broadest Term: Foreigner

The most general and widely understood term is foreigner. This term simply refers to a person who belongs to a foreign country, meaning a country other than your own. If you are in the United States, a foreigner is anyone who is not an American citizen.

While universally understood, "foreigner" can sometimes feel a bit informal or even slightly dismissive to some, depending on the tone and context. However, it remains the most common and accessible term.

More Specific Legal and Official Terms

In legal and official contexts, more precise terms are used to describe individuals who are not U.S. citizens. These terms often relate to their immigration status and how they are permitted to be in the United States.

Non-Citizen

A non-citizen is a person who is not a citizen of the United States. This is a very direct and accurate term, often used in official documents and discussions about immigration law.

Alien

The term alien is a legal term used in U.S. immigration law to refer to any person who is not a citizen or a national of the United States. While it might sound harsh in everyday conversation, it's the official designation in many government regulations and forms.

It's important to remember that "alien" in this legal context does not carry the same connotations as it does in science fiction. It simply denotes a non-citizen status under U.S. law.

Immigrant

An immigrant is a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country. In the context of the United States, an immigrant is someone who is not a U.S. citizen but has moved to the U.S. with the intention of residing here, often seeking permanent residency or citizenship.

Non-Immigrant

A non-immigrant is a foreign national who is admitted to the U.S. temporarily for a specific purpose. This category includes a wide range of individuals, such as:

• Students (F-1 visa holders)
• Temporary workers (H-1B, L-1 visa holders)
• Tourists (B-2 visa holders)
• Diplomats (A visa holders)

Their stay in the U.S. is contingent on adhering to the terms of their visa.

Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)

A permanent resident, often colloquially referred to as a "green card holder," is a foreign national who has been granted the right to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. While they are not U.S. citizens, they have many of the same rights and responsibilities as citizens, with a few exceptions (like the right to vote in federal elections or hold certain government jobs).

National

In U.S. immigration law, a national refers to a person who owes allegiance to the United States. This includes U.S. citizens and also individuals born in American Samoa or Swains Island, who are considered U.S. nationals but not necessarily citizens.

Context is Key

The best term to use often depends on who you are talking to and the specific situation. In casual conversation, "foreigner" is generally understood. However, if you're discussing immigration or legal matters, using terms like "non-citizen," "immigrant," or "non-immigrant" is more precise.

For someone who has chosen to make the U.S. their home and is on the path to citizenship, terms like "immigrant" or "permanent resident" are often more respectful and accurate than the broad term "foreigner."

Summary of Common Terms:

1. Foreigner: The most general term for someone from another country.
2. Non-Citizen: A broad legal term for anyone not a U.S. citizen.
3. Alien: A legal term for a non-citizen under U.S. immigration law.
4. Immigrant: Someone who has come to the U.S. to live permanently.
5. Non-Immigrant: Someone in the U.S. temporarily for a specific purpose.
6. Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder): Someone with legal authorization to live and work in the U.S. permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does one become a non-citizen in the U.S.?

A person is considered a non-citizen in the U.S. by default if they were not born in the United States or its territories and did not acquire citizenship through naturalization or other legal means. Essentially, if you are not a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization, you are a non-citizen.

Why are there different terms for people who are not U.S. citizens?

The different terms exist to accurately describe the legal status and intentions of foreign nationals within the United States. Terms like "immigrant" and "non-immigrant" specify their reason for being in the country and their long-term plans, which are crucial for immigration law and policy. The legal term "alien" is used for administrative and regulatory purposes.

Is it offensive to call someone a "foreigner"?

Whether "foreigner" is offensive depends heavily on the context, tone, and the individual's perception. In many casual settings, it's understood neutrally. However, if used with a negative or dismissive tone, or when a more specific term like "immigrant" or "permanent resident" would be more appropriate and respectful, it can be perceived as impolite or even prejudiced.

What is the difference between an immigrant and a non-immigrant?

An immigrant intends to reside permanently in the U.S. and often seeks permanent residency or citizenship. A non-immigrant is admitted to the U.S. for a temporary period and a specific purpose, such as studying, working temporarily, or tourism, and is expected to depart when their authorized stay ends.