A whole new set of laws becomes applicable when an individual receives their Green Card in the US after years of waiting and after doing a lot of paperwork. Many Green Card holders run into trouble as they claim themselves as US citizens and think they can vote but Green Card only makes an individual a legal permanent resident in the country and not a US citizen.
Immigration attorney Moumita Rahman explained what happens after one receives a Green Card in the US.
What a Green Card holder can do
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A Green Card holder becomes eligible for US citizenship. If you received your Green Card through marriage to a US citizen and continue to live with your spouse, you can apply for naturalization after three years, and it’s five years for other categories.
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A Green Card holder can petition for other family members, unmarried adult children etc. Unlike US citizens, the relatives of a Green Card holder are not considered as their family members and though a Green Card holder can petition for a relative, their approval will depend on the availability of a visa.
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As a Green Card holder, you are no longer tied to your employer. You can switch jobs, switch fields. But one should be careful about leaving their employer who sponsored the employment-based Green Card immediately after approval.
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A Green Card holder is allowed to start a company, hire employees, and buy commercial property.
What a Green Card holder can’t do
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A Green Card holder is not allowed to vote in any election. It does not matter how many years a Green Card holder has been living in the US. paying taxes etc.
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Green Card holders can’t do jury duty. If one receives any notice for jury duty, they must inform the authorities that they are not US citizens but Green Card holders.
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You cannot claim to be a US citizen in any form. Don’t ever check the box on any form as it will invite trouble.
What a Green Card holder must do
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File taxes every year like a US citizen. It should be filed as a US tax resident and not as a nonresident alien. A Green Card holder must report their worldwide income.
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You must keep your addresses updated with the USCIS within 10 days when you move, even if it’s just across the street.
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If your Green Card has any conditions, then you must remove the conditions.
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Renew your Green Card before it expires.
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Males between 18 and 25 must register for the Selective Service within 30 days after turning 18 or within 30 days after receiving a Green Card — whichever is earlier
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Must be physically present in the US for six months.
