Legal Definitions - permanent resident

A permanent resident, also known as a "green card" holder, is a non-U.S. citizen who is legally allowed to live in the United States permanently. They can work, own property, receive financial assistance, and join the armed forces. However, they cannot vote in U.S. elections.

There are different ways for a person to become a permanent resident. Some examples include:

• Family reunification: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident can sponsor their spouse, children, parents, or siblings to become permanent residents.
• Economic: A person can become a permanent resident if they have a job offer in the U.S. or if they invest a certain amount of money in a U.S. business.
• Humanitarian: A person can become a permanent resident if they are a refugee, seeking asylum, or a victim of human trafficking.

If a permanent resident leaves the U.S. for more than a year, they may lose their status. Additionally, if they commit certain crimes, they may be deported.

For example, Maria is a permanent resident who came to the U.S. to join her husband, who is a U.S. citizen. She is allowed to work and has started her own business. However, she cannot vote in U.S. elections. If Maria were to leave the U.S. for more than a year, she would risk losing her permanent resident status.