How Do a Green Card and U.S. Citizenship Differ? A Clear and Simple Explanation

The journey to finding a new life in the U.S. has never been easy, requiring immigrants to go through many stages and spend a considerable amount of time. Holding a Green Card or U.S. citizenship is a desire for many. However, these two documents share some similarities and often cause confusion.

Understanding the differences between a Green Card and U.S. citizenship will help you better navigate the path to U.S. residency, allowing you to complete legal processes more efficiently. Let’s explore the differences between a Green Card and U.S. citizenship in the following article with ImmiPath!

1. How Do a Green Card and U.S. Citizenship Differ?

A Green Card and U.S. citizenship are two documents that allow you to live and work legally in the U.S. However, the differences between a Green Card and U.S. citizenship are of great interest to many. ImmiPath simplifies the distinction between a Green Card and U.S. citizenship:

1.1 Conceptual Differences Between a Green Card and U.S. Citizenship

a. U.S. Green Card

A U.S. Green Card is a legal document issued by the U.S. government to permanent residents (not U.S. citizens) that confirms their right to live and work within the U.S.

There are two types of Green Cards: a 2-year Green Card and a 10-year Green Card, each with different benefits. U.S. permanent residents can apply to renew their Green Card if they meet the requirements set by the government.

b. U.S. Citizenship

U.S. citizenship is a legal status granted by the U.S. government to American citizens. Individuals who obtain U.S. citizenship will enjoy rights and responsibilities as defined by U.S. law.

1.2 Differences in Appearance Between a U.S. Green Card and U.S. Citizenship

a. U.S. Green Card

The U.S. Green Card is a green card that includes information such as a photo, full name, date of birth, place of birth, gender, Green Card expiration date, date of issuance, fingerprints, and a 9-digit USCIS number.

b. U.S. Citizenship

A U.S. citizen will receive a Certificate of Citizenship and may also be issued a dark blue U.S. passport.

1.3 Differences in Benefits Between a U.S. Green Card and U.S. Citizenship

a. For U.S. Citizens

• Duration: U.S. citizenship is permanent, whereas a Green Card is valid for 2 or 10 years (renewal required for extension).
• Voting Rights: U.S. citizens have the right to vote and run for office, which Green Card holders do not.
• Federal Employment: U.S. citizens can work for the federal government, whereas Green Card holders cannot.
• Travel Freedom: U.S. citizens can travel anywhere, at any time, and for any duration. In contrast, Green Card holders with a 2-year Green Card can be outside the U.S. for no more than 6 months and those with a 10-year Green Card for no more than 1 year.
• Passport: Only U.S. citizens can obtain a U.S. passport, which allows visa-free travel to 186 countries.

b. For Green Card Holders

• Risk of Deportation: Green Card holders can face deportation if they violate the law, while U.S. citizens are fully protected from deportation.
• Family Sponsorship: Green Card holders can only sponsor immediate family members, such as a spouse or unmarried children under 21. U.S. citizens can sponsor their entire family, including married children.
• Social Benefits: U.S. citizens have access to more benefits from social security and welfare programs compared to Green Card holders.

2. Holding a Green Card is a Prerequisite for Applying for U.S. Citizenship

A Green Card provides permanent residents with several basic benefits, including: the right to own property; the right to seek and work for private employers; the right to live and move legally across all 50 states in the U.S.; access to social security and education benefits; and the right to apply for U.S. citizenship.

When comparing the differences between a Green Card and U.S. citizenship, you’ll see the significant advantages of becoming a U.S. citizen. To become a U.S. citizen, you first need to be a Green Card holder.

The Green Card is the first and most important requirement to determine if an immigrant can apply for citizenship. Therefore, to achieve your dream of U.S. residency, obtaining this powerful card is essential.

Once you are a Green Card holder, the citizenship application process will depend on whether you meet the requirements for naturalization. Additionally, you will need to pass tests on English, U.S. government, and U.S. history to be considered for U.S. citizenship.

Through the analysis provided above, we can see the importance of both a Green Card and U.S. citizenship, as well as understand the differences between these two legal documents. Accessing legal information is extremely useful for those considering immigration to the U.S.

To ensure a smooth and efficient legal process, you may also seek assistance from Immigration and Settlement service providers.

ImmiPath has supported many clients in their journey to U.S. residency, helping them settle into their new life abroad. With years of experience in the field of immigration, ImmiPath’s services are highly recommended for your consideration and choice!