A Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card, grants individuals the legal right to live and work permanently in the United States. Issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a Green Card provides a pathway to long-term residency and, eventually, U.S. citizenship for eligible applicants. Green Card holders enjoy many of the same rights as U.S. citizens, including the ability to work without restrictions, travel internationally with fewer limitations, and access certain government benefits. However, maintaining permanent residency status requires compliance with specific rules, including residency obligations and renewal requirements.
Obtaining a Green Card can be done through various pathways, such as family sponsorship, employment-based applications, refugee or asylum status, and the Diversity Visa Lottery. Each category has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and processing times, which can vary based on individual circumstances. While a Green Card provides security and stability, it does not grant the same privileges as U.S. citizenship, such as voting rights. Understanding the requirements, benefits, and responsibilities associated with permanent residency is essential for those seeking to build a future in the United States.
