Immigrant Visa – English Version
Green Card Holders (Lawful Permanent Residents – LPR)
A Green Card grants individuals the legal right to reside and work in the United States indefinitely. While not equivalent to U.S. citizenship, permanent residence provides a range of benefits and responsibilities, making it a vital step for many individuals seeking long-term stability and opportunity in the United States.
Obtaining a Green Card
There are several pathways through which individuals can become permanent residents of the United States. Each path is designed to accommodate different personal, family, or professional circumstances.
The most common route to obtaining a Green Card is through family sponsorship. U.S. citizens can petition for immediate relatives, including spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents, without being subject to annual limits. They can also sponsor married children and siblings under the family preference system, which though is subject to annual limits (visa caps), therefore waiting time can be extensive.
Employment-based Green Cards are available to individuals who possess job offers in the United States or demonstrate exceptional abilities in fields such as science, arts, or business. These Green Cards are often sponsored by U.S.-based employers, although certain categories permit self-petitioning.
Refugees and asylum seekers who have been admitted to the United States may apply for a Green Card after residing in the country for at least one year. Victims of human trafficking, abuse, or other specific crimes may also qualify for Green Cards under humanitarian provisions.
The Diversity Visa Program, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, offers individuals from underrepresented countries the opportunity to apply for permanent residency. Applicants are selected randomly through an annual process aimed at promoting cultural diversity within the U.S. population.
Special immigrant categories are designed for individuals with unique qualifications or circumstances, including religious workers, international broadcasters, and Afghan or Iraqi nationals who have supported U.S. operations abroad. These applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify.
Rights and Benefits of Green Card Holders
Green Card holders have numerous rights and privileges that significantly enhance the quality of life.
Green Card holders have the unrestricted right to live and work anywhere in the United States. They can pursue employment opportunities without the need for additional work authorization, allowing them to fully participate in the economy.
Green Card Holders are eligible to sponsor certain family members, such as spouses and unmarried children, for their own Green Cards. This family reunification process strengthens familial ties and offers relatives a chance to benefit from U.S. residency.
Green Card Holders may access public education and certain federal and state benefits, including healthcare programs, housing assistance, and, in some cases, financial aid for higher education. These benefits provide a safety net and open doors to personal development.
Permanent residency is also a pathway to U.S. citizenship. After meeting specific requirements, such as continuous residence and good moral character, Green Card holders may apply for naturalization, allowing them to fully participate in American civic life.
Green Card holders are protected under all U.S. laws, including labor laws and civil rights protections. This ensures they can work and live in a fair and equitable environment.
