A U.S. green card (Form I-551) grants lawful permanent resident status to foreign nationals, allowing them to live and work in the United States indefinitely. Green card holders enjoy many of the same benefits as U.S. citizens and can eventually apply for naturalization.
More than 12.8 million green card holders reside in the United States. This guide outlines the benefits, responsibilities, and key limitations of holding a U.S. green card and what to consider as you start your immigration journey.
Check Also: Fastest Way to Get a Green Card – Guide to U.S.
Green Card:
A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows you to:
- Legally live and work in the United States
- Travel internationally and return to the U.S.
- Begin the process of becoming a naturalized citizen
Green cards are typically issued in these situations:
- Family-based sponsorship (e.g., spouses or children of U.S. citizens or residents)
- Employment-based sponsorship
- Diversity visa lottery
- Humanitarian grounds (e.g., asylum or refugee status)
- Adjustment or replacement of an existing green card
Benefits of Having a Green Card:
Holding a green card gives you access to a wide range of legal and practical advantages:
Immigration & Citizenship
- Path to U.S. Citizenship: Apply for naturalization after five years of permanent residency, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
- Protection from Deportation: You generally cannot be deported due to changes in immigration law. However, deportation is still possible if you violate certain laws.
Work & Education
- Freedom to Work: You can work for almost any U.S. employer, including federal jobs requiring security clearance (if eligible).
- In-State Tuition & Financial Aid: You may qualify for reduced college tuition and certain federal student aid programs.
Travel & Residency
- Ease of Reentry: Green card holders can travel internationally and return to the U.S. without needing a visa (short trips under 6 months).
- Live Anywhere: You can move freely between states without notifying immigration authorities.
Legal & Government Benefits
- Access to Social Security: Eligible after 10 years of qualifying work in the U.S.
- Sponsor Family Members: Sponsor spouses and unmarried children for their own green cards.
- Legal Protections: Receive the same legal rights under federal and state law as U.S. citizens.
Responsibilities of GC Holder:
Green card holders must comply with U.S. laws and immigration regulations to maintain their status.
- File Income Taxes: Must report income and file federal and state tax returns each year.
- Carry Proof of Status: By law, you must carry your green card at all times (INA Section 264(e)).
- Register for Selective Service: Male green card holders aged 18–25 must register.
- Obey All Laws: Violations may result in loss of permanent resident status or deportation.
- Renew Every 10 Years: Green cards must be renewed using Form I-90 before expiration.
Limitations:
While green cards offer many benefits, they do not grant full rights of U.S. citizenship:
| Limitation | Description |
|---|---|
| No Voting Rights | Green card holders cannot vote in federal, state, or local elections. |
| Cannot Run for Office | You cannot hold most elected or high-level government positions. |
| No U.S. Passport | You must travel using a passport from your country of citizenship. |
| Limited Family Sponsorship | Cannot sponsor as many family categories as U.S. citizens. |
| Extended Absences Risk Status | Staying outside the U.S. for more than 12 months may trigger abandonment of residency. Apply for a reentry permit (Form I-131) for long trips. |
Conclusion:
A U.S. green card opens the door to long-term residency, economic opportunity, and eventual citizenship. It also comes with important obligations and legal responsibilities.
If you’re considering applying for a green card, it’s essential to understand your rights, responsibilities, and long-term options. Working with an experienced immigration service or attorney can help you avoid delays and maintain compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can green card holders be deported?
Yes, green card holders may be deported for reasons such as criminal convictions, immigration fraud, or national security concerns.
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How long is a green card valid?
Most green cards are valid for 10 years and must be renewed before expiration. Conditional green cards (e.g., marriage-based) are valid for 2 years and require Form I-751 to remove conditions.
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What legal rights do U.S. green card holders have?
Green card holders have most of the same legal rights as U.S. citizens, including protection under federal, state, and local laws. They can live and work anywhere in the U.S., own property, and access the court system for civil and criminal matters.
