This archive report was first published on 25 August 2019.
Every year, approximately one million people receive US permanent resident status, also known as green cards. This status grants individuals the right to live and work permanently in the United States, but it comes with certain conditions.
According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), lawful permanent resident status can be revoked if the individual commits any actions that make them removable from the country under immigration law.
USCIS and immigration law experts provide the following guidelines to help maintain permanent resident status:
- Maintain your permanent residence in the US. Staying outside the country for more than a year can lead to the loss of your green card. If you plan to be away for an extended period, obtain a re-entry permit before leaving the US.
- Do not commit serious crimes, such as murder, rape, sexual assault on minors, fraud, terrorist activities, drugs and people trafficking. These offenses are considered immigration violations and can result in the loss of your lawful permanent resident status and ineligibility for naturalization.
- Always file taxes, including the US resident tax return (Federal Form 1040), even if all your income was earned outside the US.
- Never claim to be a US citizen when you are not, whether verbally or in writing. This includes claiming citizenship to a law enforcement officer, which is a serious crime and can lead to deportation or ineligibility for naturalization.
- Permanent residents are warned not to vote in national, state, or local elections that require voters to be US citizens, as this can lead to the loss of your green card and result in criminal penalties.
- Do not be a habitual drunkard, as this can make you ineligible to become a US citizen.
- Failing to support your family or pay child or spousal support can result in the loss of your green card or ineligibility for naturalization.
- Males between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register for the Selective Service.
