What Happens After Your Green Card Is Approved? Understanding Lawful Permanent Residency
Once your green card application is approved, you officially become a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) of the United States. This status grants you important legal rights and benefits, marking a major milestone on your path to full U.S. citizenship. In this article, we will explain what it means to be an LPR, the rights it confers, and the important responsibilities you need to know after receiving your green card.
Receiving Your Physical Green Card
After USCIS approves your green card application, you will receive your physical green card by mail. This card is your official proof of lawful permanent residency in the U.S. It contains your name, photo, Alien Registration Number (A-number), and the card’s expiration date.
- Regular green cards are typically valid for 10 years.
- If your residency is conditional, such as through marriage to a U.S. citizen less than two years before approval, your green card will be valid for 2 years and must be removed through a separate petition.
Rights and Benefits of Being a Lawful Permanent Resident
Becoming an LPR comes with several key rights:
1. Legal Right to Live and Work in the U.S.
As a green card holder, you can legally reside anywhere in the U.S. without restrictions and accept employment without needing a separate work permit. This makes it easier to pursue job opportunities and live freely.
2. Access to Social Security and Other Benefits
LPRs are eligible to apply for a Social Security number and may access certain government benefits, depending on eligibility and residency duration. This can include healthcare programs, education benefits, and more.
3. Pathway to U.S. Citizenship
After maintaining permanent residency for a certain period, you can apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization:
- Typically, after 5 years of continuous residency.
- If married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible after 3 years.
Naturalization grants you voting rights and the ability to obtain a U.S. passport.
Keeping Your Green Card Status Active
Renewing Your Green Card
Green cards expire, so it’s crucial to renew yours before expiration by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. USCIS recommends renewing 6 months before your card’s expiration date.
Updating Your Address
You must keep USCIS informed of any change of address within 10 days of moving by filing Form AR-11 online. Failure to update your address may cause delays or missed communications, including renewal notices.
Conditional Residents Must Remove Conditions
If you received a conditional green card, you need to file Form I-751 to remove conditions within the 90-day period before your card expires, or you risk losing permanent residency.
Maintaining Your Permanent Resident Status
To maintain your LPR status, you must:
- Reside primarily in the U.S. Avoid long trips abroad that could suggest abandonment of residency.
- File taxes as a resident.
- Avoid certain criminal activities that can jeopardize your status.
Final Thoughts
Receiving your green card is a life-changing achievement that provides legal rights and benefits. However, it also carries responsibilities like renewing your card on time and keeping your address current. By understanding these obligations, you can enjoy the privileges of lawful permanent residency and take confident steps toward U.S. citizenship.