This archive report was first published on 25 August 2019.
Every year, over one million people receive US permanent resident status, also known as green cards. This right allows individuals to live and work permanently in the United States, but it comes with certain conditions.
According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), green card holders must not commit any actions that would make them removable from the country under immigration law. Failure to follow these guidelines can put green card holders at risk of deportation or make them ineligible for US citizenship.
Here are some key guidelines to maintain permanent resident status:
- Reside in the US: The US government considers you to have abandoned your permanent resident status if you remain outside the country for more than one year. If you plan to be away for an extended period, obtain a re-entry permit before leaving the US.
- Comply with the law: Committing serious crimes, such as murder, rape, or fraud, can lead to the loss of your lawful permanent resident status and make you ineligible for naturalization.
- File taxes: As a green card holder, you must file taxes, including the US resident tax return (Federal Form 1040), even if all your income was earned outside the US.
- Be honest about your status: Claiming to be a US citizen when you are not is a serious crime and can result in deportation or ineligibility for naturalization.
- Exercise your right to vote responsibly: Voting in national, state, or local elections that require voters to be US citizens can lead to the loss of your green card and result in criminal penalties.
- Lead a responsible life: A permanent resident who is deemed to be a habitual drunkard or uses illegal drugs most of the time is ineligible to become a US citizen.
- Support your family: Failing to support your family or pay child or spousal support can result in the loss of your green card or ineligibility for naturalization.
- Register for the Selective Service: Males between the ages of 18 and 25 are required by US law to register for the Selective Service.
