Legal definition of Alien individual

In immigration law, the term “alien individual” refers to a foreigner as a physical individual. It emphasizes the rights, obligations, and status of the foreigner as a full-fledged person. This terminology thus underscores the individual’s physical identity and foreign status in the country of residence, thereby defining their role and place within the framework of immigration laws.

Each nation has its own immigration laws and policies, which may differ in interpreting the rights and obligations of foreigners in a given country. It is therefore important to familiarize oneself with the immigration system of a country before crossing its entry points. In this context, the assistance of an immigration lawyer specializing in immigration law is often recommended to prevent any issues with local authorities.

Protected by international law and multinational conventions, foreigners have rights and obligations when they arrive in a given country. Like all global citizens, they are entitled to security and access to social services. In return, they must adhere to the laws and regulations throughout the territory of the host country, cooperate with authorities, and respect local customs. These rights and obligations are essential for ensuring the smooth integration of foreigners into the host society.

According to international law, each alien individual entering a given country is subject to a specific legal status. Depending on their reasons, a foreigner may be :

• Permanent resident : This status grants the individual the right to live and work permanently in the host country.
• Work visa holder : Beneficiaries of this residence permit are allowed to reside temporarily in the host country to hold a specific job.
• Asylum seeker : This category is reserved for victims of persecution in their country of origin who seek refuge in another country.
• Asylum student : These individuals are allowed to study at an educational institution in the host country under a student visa.
• Tourist/temporary visitor : This status allows a foreigner to temporarily stay in the country for tourism, leisure, or professional purposes.
• Refugee : Refugees are individuals who have fled their country of origin due to persecution, war, or violence and have been recognized as requiring international protection.