Having a Green Card is a great privilege, as it grants you the right to live and work in the United States permanently. It also comes with certain rights and responsibilities that all green card holders should be aware of.
In this guide, we will discuss the rights and responsibilities of green card holders. We will also discuss the rights and responsibilities of foreign nationals who have been granted permanent residency in the United States.
Exploring the Benefits of Having a Green Card
Having a Green Card is often referred to as the “golden ticket”, as it grants you access to many of the benefits that are available in the United States. Here are some of the rights and benefits afforded to green card holders:
- The right to work legally in the United States– Green card holders have the right to work in any job they choose, provided they are legally qualified to do so.
- The right to attend college and universities– Green card holders can apply for admission into U.S. colleges and universities and may qualify for financial aid if they meet certain qualifications.
- The right to own property– As a green card holder, you can own property in the United States and enjoy the same legal rights as U.S. citizens when it comes to buying, selling, or transferring property.
- The right to vote– After five years of continuous residence, green card holders may be eligible for naturalization—which grants them the right to vote in federal and state elections.
- The right to sponsor family members– Green card holders can petition for their spouse, children, and parents to become permanent residents as well.
These are just a few of the benefits that come with being a green card holder. It’s important to note, however, that there are also certain responsibilities associated with being a green card holder.
Responsibilities of a Green Card Holder
In addition to enjoying all the rights that come with having a green card, there are also certain responsibilities that green card holders must be aware of. Here are the most important responsibilities:
- Paying taxes– All green card holders must file their taxes each year and pay any taxes due to the IRS. This includes income, sales, and property taxes. Tax obligations for green card holders are generally the same as those for U.S. citizens. So, it is essential to consult with a green card attorney if you have any specific questions about your tax obligations.
- Obeying the law– As a permanent resident of the United States, you must abide by all federal, state, and local laws. This includes respecting other people’s property rights and following all traffic laws while driving. Every green card holder must stay informed about the law and seek legal help if necessary.
- Taking part in jury duty– All permanent residents of the United States are subject to being called for jury duty. It is a civic responsibility that all permanent residents must fulfill whenever requested. This is a critical part of the American judicial system and it’s important to take your civic responsibilities seriously.
If you are unsure about your rights and responsibilities as a green card holder, it is best to speak with a reputable green card attorney. They can provide the best advice and guidance on your specific situation.
Having a Green Card is an incredible privilege and comes with certain rights and responsibilities that must be taken seriously. To ensure that you are always abiding by the necessary regulations, it is essential to take the time to gain an understanding of your rights and obligations as a green card holder. This can help to ensure that you can make the most of your Green Card status and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.
Now that you know more about what it means to be a green card holder, you can start taking advantage of the rights and benefits that come with it while making sure that you are fulfilling all your necessary responsibilities.