Legal Definitions - green card

A green card is the common term for what is officially known as a Permanent Resident Card. This document serves as proof that an individual has been granted permanent resident status in the United States. Holding a green card allows a person to live and work permanently anywhere in the U.S., travel internationally and return, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship if they meet the eligibility requirements. While the physical card itself has an expiration date and must be renewed, the underlying status of permanent residency typically does not expire.

Here are a few examples illustrating how a green card functions:

• Example 1: Family-Based Immigration
  Maria, a citizen of Brazil, marries John, a U.S. citizen. After John successfully petitions for Maria through the family-based immigration process, Maria is issued a Permanent Resident Card. This green card allows Maria to live permanently with John in the United States, pursue any job she qualifies for without needing a separate work visa, and travel back to Brazil to visit her family, knowing she can re-enter the U.S. as a permanent resident.

• Example 2: Employment-Based Immigration
  Dr. Chen, a highly skilled software engineer from Taiwan, is offered a senior position at a technology company in California. The company sponsors Dr. Chen for an employment-based green card due to his specialized expertise. Once approved and issued, Dr. Chen's green card enables him to establish his life and career in the U.S. indefinitely, providing stability for his family and allowing him to contribute to the U.S. economy without the limitations of temporary work visas.

• Example 3: Diversity Visa Program
  Fatima, a teacher from Morocco, applies for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (often called the "green card lottery"). She is selected and successfully completes the necessary interviews and background checks. Upon receiving her Permanent Resident Card, Fatima is able to move to the United States, find a teaching job, and reside permanently, enjoying the rights and responsibilities of a legal permanent resident, all because her green card proves her authorized status.