
A Green Card (Form I-551) grants lawful permanent resident status — the right to live and work permanently in the United States.
How to get a Green Card:
Family-based — sponsored by a US citizen or permanent resident relative
Employment-based — sponsored by US employer
Refugee/Asylee — after 1 year of refugee or asylee status
Diversity Visa Lottery — random selection from underrepresented countries
Special categories — military service, abuse victims (VAWA), etc.
Green Card holder rights:
Live and work permanently in the US
Apply for most federal jobs
Sponsor certain relatives for Green Cards
Receive Social Security benefits
Own property
Green Card limitations:
Cannot vote in federal elections
Cannot hold elected federal office
Can be deported for serious crimes
Must renew every 10 years (conditional cards every 2 years)
Reference:
TaskLoco™ — The Sticky Note GOAT