If you plan to live in the U.S. for a long time, exploring the deets of Green card and citizenship is wise. You might have to apply for either to continue your residence there. Although both give you legal status and certain rights, they’re not the same. A Green card lets you stay permanently, while citizenship comes with more benefits and responsibilities. Let’s explore a bit about Green card vs citizenship.
What is a Green card?
A Green card, also known as a Permanent Resident card, lets non-citizens live and work in the U.S. permanently. It gives legal status and protection under U.S. laws. Green card holders can apply for citizenship later if they meet the requirements. However, it’s important to note that the eligibility for Green card is not simple.
What is US citizenship?
U.S. citizenship is the highest legal status in the country. It gives you full rights, like voting, running for office and getting a U.S. passport. One can become a citizen by birth or through naturalisation after living there for a certain period and meeting the requirements.
Unlike Green card holders, U.S. citizens don’t lose their status due to long trips abroad or legal issues (except in rare cases).
Difference between Green card and citizenship
While both citizens and Green card holders enjoy legal residence in the U.S., there are difference between a Green card and citizenship. While knowing the differences, let’s also explore some benefits of Green card vs citizenship:
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Rights
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Green card
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U.S. citizenship
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Voting rights
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No voting in federal elections
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Can vote in all elections
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Work rights
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Can work in most jobs
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Can work in all government jobs
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Deportation
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Can be deported under certain circumstances
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Cannot be deported
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Travel restrictions
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Must maintain US residence and follow re-entry rules
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No travel restrictions
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Sponsorship
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Can sponsor limited family members
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Can sponsor more family members with priority
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Passport
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Cannot obtain a US passport
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Can obtain a US passport
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Rights and benefits of US lawful permanent residence
Having a Green card lets you live and work in the U.S. permanently. It provides you with the following benefits:
- Legal status
- Better job opportunities
- Some government benefits, like Social Security and Medicare
- Path to citizenship
A Green card must be renewed every 10 years, and you need to maintain continuous residence to avoid losing your status.
Rights and benefits of US citizenship
Becoming a U.S. citizen gives you more security and rights, including:
- Full political rights.
- Stronger legal protection
- More government benefits
- Easier family sponsorship
- S. passport
Green card eligibility in the USA for Indians
Indians can apply for a Green card through different routes. The main options are:
- Family-based Green card: Sponsored by a U.S. citizen or Green card holder family member, this is available for immediate family like spouse, children or parents.
- Employment-based Green card USA Eligibility: This is offered based on skills and abilities and brings in EB-1, EB-2 and EB-3 visa categories.
- Asylum or refugee status: If a person faces serious persecution in their home country, they can apply for one.
- Investment-based Green card (EB-5 Visa): This visa requires a minimum $1,050,000 investment in specific areas.
- Special categories: This EB-4 is open to a wide range of special category people from religious workers to victims of abuse or crime.
FAQs
- Can Green card holders apply for citizenship?
Yes. If you’ve had a Green card for at least five years (or three years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen), you can apply for citizenship.
- Can a Green card holder be deported?
Unfortunately, yes. If a Green card holder commits heinous crimes, doesn’t maintain their residency or breaks immigration laws, they can be deported.
- Do Green card holders pay taxes?
Yes, they do. Just like U.S. citizens, they have to pay taxes on their worldwide income.
- How long does it take to get a Green card for Indians?
It depends. Employment-based Green cards might take a few years, but family-based applications can take over a decade.
Conclusion
While getting a Green card or U.S. citizenship is a long-drawn process, you can surely visit the U.S. to explore its national parks, vibrant cities and innovative gastronomy. Don’t forget international travel insurance, which provides financial protection against various unexpected issues, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost baggage. You can also opt for single trip travel insurance to provide security during a specific trip.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.