Define: Green Card

A Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is an identification document that proves an individual’s permanent residency status in the United States.

There are several ways to obtain a Green Card, including through family sponsorship, employment sponsorship, refugee or asylum status, or through the Diversity Visa Lottery program.

The processing time for a Green Card can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the category under which you are applying. It can range from several months to several years.

Yes, a Green Card allows you to work and live permanently in the United States. You have the right to work for any employer and in any occupation, except for certain government jobs that require U.S. citizenship.

Yes, as a Green Card holder, you can travel outside the United States and re-enter freely. However, if you plan to stay outside the country for an extended period, you may need to obtain a re-entry permit to maintain your permanent residency status.

Yes, there are certain circumstances that can lead to the loss of your Green Card, such as committing certain crimes, abandoning your permanent residency, or failing to meet the residency requirements. It is important to comply with the rules and regulations to maintain your Green Card status.

Yes, after holding a Green Card for a certain period of time (usually five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process.

Yes, as a Green Card holder, you may be eligible to sponsor certain family members for a Green Card. The eligibility and process may vary depending on the relationship and the specific immigration category.

In most cases, individuals who entered the United States illegally are not eligible to apply for a Green Card. However, there may be certain exceptions or options available, such as through marriage to a U.S. citizen or through asylum or refugee status.

Yes, you can apply to renew your Green Card if it is about to expire or has already expired. It is important to file the renewal application well in advance to avoid any gaps in your permanent residency status.