The Green Card Journey: A Guide to Rights, Duties, and Renewals
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. | Oct 17, 2023 | Immigration
The US green card—a golden ticket to the American dream and much more than an identity piece. It is an undertaking that entails living an entirely new life of opportunities and responsibilities. This guide aims to shed light on the privileges and obligations and the essential process of keeping this status current.
The Privileges of Holding a Green Card
Being a permanent resident comes with significant advantages:
Live and Work Freely: You can settle down anywhere within the U.S. boundaries and take up employment without seeking additional permissions.
Protection and Rights: Just like any U.S. citizen, you’re safeguarded by all federal, state, and local laws.
Family Reunification: You can sponsor certain family members, helping them join you on American soil.
The Duties that Come With the Status
Every privilege has its set of responsibilities:
Uphold the Law: All U.S. laws, federal, state, and local, are to be respected and followed.
Tax Responsibilities: If you are a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you should be filing your income taxes with the IRS every year, including your worldwide income.
Champion the Democratic System: While voting in federal elections isn’t permissible, you’re expected to respect and uphold the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
Stay Connected: Prolonged absences from the U.S. can risk your Green Card status. It’s crucial to maintain a consistent presence.
Keeping Your Green Card Current
A Green Card isn’t an eternal document. It generally requires a renewal every decade. Here’s a snapshot of the process:
Initiate Early: It’s wise to kickstart the renewal about 6 months before the expiration. Utilize Form I-90 for this purpose.
Attend the Biometrics Session: After applying, you may be called in for biometrics, which includes fingerprinting and photography.
Patiently Wait: Once your renewal application is in the system, await the final decision. If all goes well, your renewed card will be dispatched to you.
Possessing a U.S. Green Card is both a privilege and a pledge. It offers a chance to thrive in the land of opportunities while emphasizing the importance of duties. With the trusted guidance of Coughlon Law in AZ, staying informed and proactive becomes even more accessible as you secure your Green Card and maximize its advantages.
