### Question
How is the "permanent" defined?


### Answer
The term **permanent** is defined in *8 U.S.C. § 1101* as follows -

> a relationship of continuing or lasting nature, as distinguished from temporary, but a relationship may be permanent even though it is one that may be dissolved eventually at the instance either of the United States or of the individual, in accordance with law

#### Citation:
  - *8 U.S.C. § 1101*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 12-IMMIGRATION AND NATIONALITY > SUBCHAPTER I-GENERAL PROVISIONS**

