Visa
Definition
An official document or stamp in a passport that grants permission to enter, stay in, or leave a country for a specified purpose and duration.
Explanation
Visas are issued by a country's government and specify the conditions of entry, such as the purpose of the visit (work, study, tourism, family reunification) and the length of stay permitted. Different visa categories have different requirements and restrictions. Temporary visas allow stays for a limited period, while permanent visas (or permanent residency) allow indefinite residence. The visa system is typically the first step in the immigration process, with many people progressing from temporary to permanent status before applying for citizenship.
Why this matters for your test
Understanding visa categories and the immigration pathway helps contextualise your citizenship journey.
Source: General immigration terminology