With a green card, which is a legal permit for permanent residency, you are eligible for a number of benefits. However, not everyone is a candidate for it.
If you have a green card, you can live anywhere in the United States and work anywhere you want. Moving from one state to another is not restricted, and you can change jobs (or not have one at all). Obtaining a green card is also the last step before becoming an American citizen. Here’s a guide on the pros and cons of obtaining a green card in the U.S. to help you decide if you’re making the right choice for your future.
United States Green Card Process
Many immigrants can become citizens of the United States with the help of a green card. The green card can allow its holder to stay permanently in the country.
They are not citizens, but green card holders are allowed to live and work in the United States indefinitely. You can make an informed decision if you know more about the advantages and disadvantages of a USA green card.
There Are Many Benefits To Having A Green Card
Green card holders, also called permanent residents, are entitled to a variety of benefits not available to visa holders.
- If you have had a green card for five years (or three years if you are married to a citizen), then you can apply for citizenship.
- You can sponsor visa or green card applications for certain relatives if you have your own green card.
- With a green card, it is easier to enter and exit the United States.
- Tuition for college, university, and vocational schools will be cheaper if you qualify for local tuition.
- Ten years is the maximum period for renewing a green card.
By getting a green card, you can donate to U.S. elections, so that you can vote for politicians whose policies will benefit you.
Additionally to their rights, green card holders must fulfill certain responsibilities, which include:
Green Cards Aren’t Without Drawbacks
The rights and responsibilities you receive as a green card holder are not the same as those of a United States citizen.
- It is a right to vote.
- Green card applications from family members are given priority.Green card applications from family members are given priority.
- An American citizen can become a citizen if he or she was born overseas.
- You can get involved in politics through elections.
- Americans must have passports in order to travel abroad.
- Deportation is not an option for you.
If you become a naturalized citizen, you’ll be able to participate in these benefits. This is not available with a green card.
What Is Required To Qualify For A Green Card
Green cards can only be obtained if you meet certain eligibility requirements. Green cards are typically given to immigrants based on their family or their employment. In addition to obtaining a green card, immigrants can also apply as victims of abuse, special immigrants, through registration, or refugees or asylum seekers.
The following requirements must be met in order to apply for a green card:
- You can be a spouse, child, or grandparent of a U.S. citizen at least 21 years of age, or you can be a parent or grandparent.
- Families of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can apply for the family-based preference categories.