What is a green card?

A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, serves as proof that an individual has been granted authorization to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. This status allows the holder to reside in the country indefinitely, as long as they maintain their permanent resident status by adhering to certain regulations, such as not committing crimes that would affect their residency or remaining outside the U.S. for extended periods without proper documentation.

This understanding of a green card highlights its significance in the U.S. immigration system, as it symbolizes a step towards U.S. citizenship for many individuals. Those holding a green card can enjoy various benefits, such as the ability to apply for jobs, travel outside the U.S. with fewer restrictions than visas allow, and access to certain government benefits after a waiting period.

In contrast, a temporary work visa would provide individuals with authorization to work in the U.S. for a limited timeframe, which does not equate to permanent residency. A document for travel abroad typically relates to a passport or a travel document that does not confer residency rights. Similarly, a visitor's permit allows for temporary entry into the U.S. for tourism or business purposes, without any residency privilege. Therefore, the key distinction lies in the permanent residency