resident alien

noun

, Law.

1. an alien who has legally established residence in the United States.
2. an alien who has legally entered the United States as an immigrant with the intention of becoming a citizen.

Word History and Origins

Origin of resident alien¹

First recorded in 1800–05

Example Sentences

The rest of eligible Americans and resident aliens will receive their checks by mail.

From Fortune

Cephalus, at whose house the conversation of Platos Republic is placed, was a resident alien.

From Project Gutenberg

But these natural blessings may be added to: in the first place, by a careful handling of our resident alien population.

From Project Gutenberg