Key Takeaways
• Green Card holders must renew every 10 years or 2 years for conditional cards using USCIS Form I-90 or I-751.
• New April 11, 2025 immigration registry requires undocumented immigrants to register with USCIS to avoid penalties.
• Selective Service registration is mandatory for male Green Card holders aged 18 to 25 within 30 days.
Receiving a Green Card is a life-changing event for many immigrants. It means you are now a lawful permanent resident of the United States 🇺🇸, with the right to live and work here. But this new status also comes with important rules and steps you must follow to keep Your Green Card and enjoy all the benefits it offers. This guide will walk you through the entire process after getting your Green Card, from understanding your rights to preparing for U.S. citizenship. Each step includes what you need to do, what to expect from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and how long each part might take. By following these steps, you can protect your status and plan for your future in the United States 🇺🇸.
Understanding Your New Status: Rights and Responsibilities
After you receive your Green Card, you gain many new rights, but you also take on new responsibilities. It’s important to know both so you can avoid problems and make the most of your new life in the United States 🇺🇸.
Your Rights as a Green Card Holder:
– Live and work permanently in the United States 🇺🇸. You can choose where to live and what job to take, just like a U.S. citizen.
– Be protected by all U.S. laws. This means you have the same legal rights as citizens in most situations.
– Travel in and out of the United States 🇺🇸. You can leave and return, but there are some limits (explained later).
Your Responsibilities as a Green Card Holder:
– Obey all U.S. laws. Breaking the law can put your Green Card at risk.
– File federal and state tax returns every year. You must report your income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and your state’s tax office, even if you live outside the United States 🇺🇸 for part of the year.
– Support the democratic government. This means you should respect the U.S. system of government and not try to change it by force.
– Register with the Selective Service if you are a male between 18 and 25. This is a U.S. government requirement for possible military service. You can register online at the Selective Service System.
Estimated Timeframe: You should start following these rules as soon as you receive your Green Card. There is no waiting period.
Maintaining Your Green Card: Keeping It Valid
Your Green Card is proof of your legal status. If it expires, is lost, or gets damaged, you could face problems with work, travel, or even risk losing your status.
Key Actions:
– Check the expiration date on your Green Card. Most cards are valid for 10 years (or 2 years if you have a conditional Green Card).
– Renew or replace your Green Card if needed. Use Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card to renew or replace your card. If you have a conditional Green Card, you must use Form I-751 to remove conditions.
What to Expect from USCIS:
– Processing times: As of 2025, USCIS processing times are increasing but are still close to pre-pandemic levels. Receipt notices for standard cases are usually sent within three business days.
– Concurrent medical exam filing: If you are applying for a new Green Card, you must now file your medical exam (Form I-693) at the same time as your main application.
Estimated Timeframe: Renewing or replacing your Green Card can take several months, so start the process at least six months before your card expires.
Complying with the New Immigration Registry
A new rule from April 11, 2025, requires all immigrants in the United States 🇺🇸 to be listed in a government registry. This is part of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which sets the main rules for U.S. immigration.
Who Must Register:
– Most immigrants already registered when they applied for their visa or Green Card.
– Undocumented immigrants (those without legal status) must now submit their personal information to USCIS to avoid penalties.
What to Do:
– If you are undocumented, contact USCIS or an immigration lawyer to find out how to register.
– If you already have a Green Card, you do not need to take extra steps unless USCIS contacts you.
What to Expect from Authorities:
– USCIS may send notices or requests for more information.
– Failing to register can lead to fines or other penalties.
Estimated Timeframe: Registration should be completed as soon as possible if you are required to do so.
Filing Tax Returns: Meeting Your Financial Duties
As a Green Card holder, you must file tax returns every year, even if you live outside the United States 🇺🇸 for part of the year or do not earn much money.
Key Actions:
– File federal tax returns with the IRS. You can do this online or with the help of a tax professional.
– File state tax returns if required. Each state has its own rules, so check with your state’s tax office.
What to Expect:
– The IRS may send you notices if you do not file or if there are problems with your return.
– Not filing taxes can lead to fines and may affect your ability to become a U.S. citizen later.
Estimated Timeframe: Tax returns are due every year by April 15. Start preparing your taxes early to avoid last-minute problems.
Registering with the Selective Service (If Required)
If you are a male Green Card holder between 18 and 25 years old, you must register with the Selective Service. This is a U.S. government list of people who could be called for military service if needed.
How to Register:
– Go to the Selective Service System website and fill out the online form.
– You can also register at a U.S. post office.
What to Expect:
– You will get a confirmation letter after registering.
– Not registering can cause problems if you want to become a U.S. citizen or get certain government benefits.
Estimated Timeframe: You must register within 30 days of your 18th birthday or within 30 days of becoming a Green Card holder if you are already between 18 and 25.
Accessing Public Benefits: What You Can and Cannot Get
Green Card holders may be able to get some public benefits, but the rules are different in each state and for each type of benefit. Some benefits are only for U.S. citizens, while others are open to permanent residents.
Possible Benefits:
– Health insurance programs (like Medicaid) in some states
– Food assistance (like SNAP) in some cases
– Unemployment benefits if you lose your job
What to Do:
– Check with your state’s social services office to see what you qualify for.
– Be honest on all applications. Lying to get benefits can lead to losing your Green Card.
What to Expect:
– You may need to show your Green Card and other documents.
– Some programs have waiting periods for new Green Card holders.
Estimated Timeframe: Applying for benefits can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the program.
Considering Naturalization: The Path to U.S. Citizenship
After five years as a Green Card holder (or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen), you may be able to apply for U.S. citizenship. This process is called naturalization.
Eligibility Requirements:
– Be at least 18 years old
– Have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 as a Green Card holder for at least five years
– Show good moral character (no serious crimes or lying to immigration officials)
– Pass English and civics tests
– Take the Oath of Allegiance
Steps to Apply:
1. Check your eligibility. Review the requirements on the USCIS Naturalization page.
2. Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. You can find the form and instructions on the USCIS website.
3. Gather required documents. This includes your Green Card, tax returns, and proof of residence.
4. Attend a biometrics appointment. USCIS will take your fingerprints and photo.
5. Go to your interview. You will answer questions about your application and take the English and civics tests.
6. Take the Oath of Allegiance. If approved, you will attend a ceremony to become a U.S. citizen.
What to Expect from USCIS:
– Processing times for naturalization can vary, but it often takes 6 to 12 months.
– You will receive notices for each step by mail or email.
Estimated Timeframe: Start preparing for naturalization about six months before you reach five years as a Green Card holder.
Staying Informed About Policy Changes
U.S. immigration laws and rules can change quickly. It’s important to stay up to date so you don’t miss new requirements or deadlines.
How to Stay Informed:
– Check the USCIS website regularly. This is the official source for all immigration news and updates.
– Sign up for email alerts from USCIS.
– Talk to an immigration lawyer if you have questions.
– Read trusted immigration news sources. As reported by VisaVerge.com, staying informed helps you avoid mistakes that could put your Green Card at risk.
What to Expect:
– USCIS may send you notices about changes that affect your status.
– Ignoring new rules can lead to problems, so always read official letters and emails carefully.
Estimated Timeframe: Make it a habit to check for updates every few months or whenever you hear about possible changes in the news.
Practical Implications: What These Steps Mean for You
Following these steps is not just about following the law—it’s about protecting your future in the United States 🇺🇸. Missing a deadline, failing to file taxes, or not renewing your Green Card can lead to serious problems, including losing your status or being unable to become a U.S. citizen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
– Letting your Green Card expire
– Not filing taxes on time
– Ignoring USCIS letters or emails
– Failing to register with the Selective Service (if required)
– Lying on benefit applications
Tips for Success:
– Keep all your immigration documents in a safe place.
– Set reminders for important dates, like Green Card renewal or tax deadlines.
– Ask for help if you don’t understand something—many community organizations and lawyers can help.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Green Card Holders
U.S. immigration policy is always changing. The new immigration registry and longer USCIS processing times show that the government is paying closer attention to compliance. Green Card holders should expect more checks and possibly new rules in the future.
What This Means for You:
– Be ready to show proof of your status and compliance with all rules.
– Keep copies of all forms and receipts from USCIS.
– Plan ahead for renewals and applications, as wait times may increase.
Where to Find Help and More Information
- USCIS Official Website: The best place for up-to-date information on Green Card rules, forms, and news is the USCIS website.
- Immigration and Nationality Act: This law sets the main rules for immigration in the United States 🇺🇸. You can read the full text on the U.S. Government Publishing Office site.
- Community Organizations: Many local groups offer free or low-cost help with immigration questions.
- Trusted News Sources: VisaVerge.com reports that staying informed about policy changes is one of the best ways to protect your status.
Actionable Takeaways: What You Should Do Now
- Review your Green Card and make sure it’s valid. If it’s close to expiring, start the renewal process now.
- Register with the Selective Service if you are a male between 18 and 25.
- File your taxes every year and keep copies of your returns.
- Check if you need to register under the new immigration registry rules.
- Look into public benefits you may qualify for, but always tell the truth on applications.
- Start preparing for naturalization if you are close to five years as a Green Card holder.
- Stay informed by checking the USCIS website and signing up for alerts.
- Keep all your documents organized and in a safe place.
By following these steps and staying alert to new rules, you can enjoy your life as a Green Card holder and prepare for the possibility of becoming a U.S. citizen. The journey doesn’t end when you get your Green Card—it’s just the beginning of your new life in the United States 🇺🇸.
Learn Today
Green Card → A card proving lawful permanent residence in the U.S., allowing work and lived rights.
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the government agency managing immigration processes.
Selective Service → A registration system for men age 18-25 that can require military service if needed.
Form I-90 → Application to renew or replace a Green Card for permanent residents.
Naturalization → The legal process for a Green Card holder to become a U.S. citizen.
This Article in a Nutshell
Receiving a Green Card grants permanent U.S. residence with rights and responsibilities. Follow USCIS rules, renew on time, file taxes annually, register if required, and prepare for naturalization to secure your status and future citizenship opportunities in the United States.
— By VisaVerge.com
