A lot of individuals aspire to settle in the United States, a nation that is renowned for education, employment opportunities, and standard of living. Before embarking on that huge undertaking, it is vital to understand the difference between green card and citizenship. The privileges, rights, and obligations for both are quite distinct. Here’s an easy explanation to enable you to make your choice, best suited to your ambitions.
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Rights and Privileges of a Green Card Holder
A green card is a permanent resident card, which grants the holder permanent resident stature to live and work forever in the United States, without having US citizenship. Green card holders do not receive US passports or voting rights, however, they remain citizens of their own country. You will also lose your permanent residency status and rights to live and work in the US if you are outside the US for too long or if you violate US immigration laws or your visa conditions. Overall, though, permanent residency is much better than visa tourist status.
Benefits of a Green Card Holder
- You may live anywhere in the US and work.
- You can sponsor immediate family members, like your spouse or children, for permanent residency.
- You’re eligible for Social Security, Medicare, and certain federal benefits.
- You can travel in and out of the US more freely than visa holders.
- You may apply for US citizenship after five years of lawful residence.
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Who Qualifies as a US Citizen?
You have full constitutional rights as a US citizen. You can be one by birth or through US parents, or through naturalization after being a green card holder for a couple of years. Being naturalized, you have all federal rights, such as the right to vote, hold public office, and travel without any restriction with your US passport. You also have full protection from deportation.
Advantages of US Citizenship
- Full civic rights, including voting
- A US passport for global travel without visa limitations.
- Sponsorship of more relatives to immigrate.
- Government employment and greater federal benefits access.
- Permanent exemption from deportation.
Difference Between a Green Card and Citizenship
The difference between a green card and citizenship mainly lies in the rights and protection provided.
- Green card holders possess fewer rights and risk losing status over specific offences.
- US citizens have permanent status, complete constitutional rights, and the right to vote.
If you are still confused what is the difference between green card and citizenship, just keep this in mind. A green card provides the right to reside, but citizenship provides the right to belong.
Difference Between a Green Card and Visa
One of the most common questions asked is the difference between a visa and a green card. A visa permits you to enter the US temporarily to work, study, or visit. A green card permits you to reside and work here permanently. Think of a visa as a short-term permission slip, while a green card is your long-term home key.
Whether you decide to remain in the US as a permanent resident or become a US citizen, both make opportunities knock. And whenever your heart beckons you to go back home, visit Indian Eagle to book affordable flights to India at your ease and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Green Card and citizenship?
A Green Card gives you permanent residence and permission to work and stay in the United States for life, while citizenship gives you complete legal rights, such as the power to vote and hold a US passport.
What is the difference between a Green Card and a visa?
A visa provides temporary entry into the US, and a Green Card provides permanent residence together with work and long-term residential rights.
Can a holder of a Green Card can be a US citizen?
Yes. You may apply for naturalization after five years of permanent residence in the US.
Do US citizens need to renew their status like Green Card holders?
No. US citizenship is permanent, while Green Cards must be renewed every 10 years.
