U.S. Green Card: Advantages and Disadvantages

Many people have heard about the U.S. Green Card – the green card that grants the opportunity to permanently reside in America.

In this material, we will take a detailed look at the advantages and disadvantages of the Green Card and also clarify what obligations the Green Card holder has towards the U.S.

Please note, the Green Card does not make you a U.S. citizen, but it provides the right to live in the States and lead a full life.

Let’s start with the terminology.

The Green Card, or simply “green card” as commonly known, officially called the United States Permanent Resident Card, is essentially a document for U.S. residents.

Advantages you receive with a Green Card:

1. Green Card status lasts for life

You can renew its validity every 10 years for the same term. Many people aspire to change their status and become U.S. citizens. This can be done after 5 years of living in the U.S. with a Green Card.

If, for any reason, you don’t plan to pursue citizenship, for example, to retain citizenship in your home country (if dual citizenship is prohibited), you can simply renew the card. You can do this an unlimited number of times.

2. The Green Card allows you to travel to other countries from the U.S.

Yes, with a Green Card, you can visit your home country or travel the world.

The key here is to remember the time limit you have for visiting other countries. Generally, you can leave the U.S. for no more than 6 months a year. It’s better not to cut it too close and to plan trips abroad for 2-3 months.

3. You have the right to work in the U.S. and open your own business

You can work in the company you like and where you successfully passed the interview.

Keep in mind that certain jobs, particularly in government agencies, are only open to U.S. citizens.

You can also start a business and become a shareholder in other companies. This is completely legal and offers opportunities for good earnings.

4. You have the right to live wherever you want

The Green Card does not impose any restrictions on where you can live. You can choose the state and city that best suit you based on climate or economic factors.

You can move from place to place whenever you wish.

5. You have the right to American education

Yes, you can take exams and apply for free admission to educational institutions.

You can also apply for a government grant for education or request a discount on tuition fees.

6. Right to government assistance

This refers to a pension. You will have the right to receive a pension if you have worked legally in the U.S. for at least 10 years.

7. Family reunification

If you obtained your Green Card directly in the U.S., you can request entry permission for your spouse and unmarried children under 21.

If you won the Green Card while outside the U.S., your family (spouse and unmarried children under 21) automatically gains the right to enter along with you.

Both adults will be able to work legally, and minor children will be able to attend school.

8. You will also be able to make major purchases

For example, buying property, and in certain states — even firearms.

Many residents acquire their own housing before obtaining U.S. citizenship. And this is a common practice.

Now, let’s talk about the downsides — does the Green Card have any? With so many advantages, all the disadvantages may seem insignificant. But let’s figure it out.

Disadvantages of the Green Card

Let’s talk about the main and most significant ones.

1. A Green Card does not guarantee citizenship documents for your children if they were born outside of America.

Each case is considered individually, and we want to remind you that the legalization process goes smoother if you have a trusted immigration lawyer.

2. You cannot participate in U.S. political life.

Many people are not concerned about this, but Americans consider it sacred to vote the way they want, so it’s important to them.

You also won’t be able to participate in elections, meaning you can’t run for office.

3. You do not have full protection from deportation.

With a Green Card, you are a resident, but not a citizen. In the case of serious legal violations or financial fraud, you could be summoned to court, and the case may lead to imprisonment, fines to the government, and subsequent deportation.

Responsibilities of a Green Card holder

1. Pay taxes on par with U.S. citizens

The Green Card obligates you to pay taxes and file a tax return annually.

In case of tax evasion or deliberate non-payment, you could lose your Green Card status.

So, don’t mess with the tax authorities if you want to live in the U.S. In America, economic crimes are considered among the most serious.

2. Registering for military service

Many young men in the former Soviet Union countries often tried to avoid military service. If you have a Green Card, live in the U.S., and are between 18 and 25 years old, you are required to register for military service.

This doesn’t mean you will be 100% called to serve your new homeland, but the government needs to know whom they can count on in case of military actions.

There’s no need to be afraid; it’s better to go and register to avoid future problems with obtaining citizenship and to ensure you don’t lose your resident status.

3. Complying with federal laws

Like any other immigrant, tourist, or citizen, you are required to obey local laws and not break them.

If serious violations are found, your card may be revoked.

4. Residing in the U.S. most of the time

As we mentioned earlier, you can travel, but we do not recommend staying outside the U.S. for more than 180 days a year. If you frequently leave the U.S. for extended periods, immigration services may call you in for an interview to assess your “strong ties with America.” In such cases, you’ll need to work hard to prove your attachment with all available documents.

5. Reporting your place of residence

By law, Green Card holders are required to inform the authorities about any change of residence within 10 days after moving.

We hope we’ve helped you understand the advantages and disadvantages of the Green Card, and that this will help you navigate the details more effectively.