Can You Stay in the US with a Green Card? Understanding Permanent Residency

Learn about your rights and responsibilities as a green card holder in the US.

480 views

Yes, you can stay in the US with a green card as it grants you the status of a lawful permanent resident. This means you have the right to live and work in the US indefinitely, as long as you do not commit any actions that would make you removable under immigration law. However, be aware that you must not abandon your residency and should maintain a physical presence in the US.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What rights do green card holders have in the US? Green card holders have the right to live and work in the US indefinitely. They can travel internationally, apply for a driver's license, and enroll in schools or colleges.
  2. How long can you leave the US with a green card? Green card holders should ideally not leave the US for more than six months at a time. Leaving for over a year without proper documentation may result in losing the green card.
  3. Can a green card holder apply for citizenship? Yes, green card holders can apply for US citizenship after living in the US for generally five years, or three years if they are married to a US citizen.
  4. What can cause a green card holder to lose their status? Green card holders can lose their status by committing certain crimes, abandoning their residency, or failing to maintain the required physical presence in the US, among other reasons.