The Green Card, or permanent residency, is essential for those who want to live and work legally in the United States. Obtaining it opens the door to new opportunities for stability and peace of mind—key elements for building a strong future.

Having this status grants access to better working conditions, healthcare services, education, and, in many cases, the possibility of reuniting with family. However, permanent residency also comes with responsibilities that should not be overlooked. Some of these include:

• Complying with all federal, state, and local laws.
• Filing tax returns by IRS regulations.
• Keeping immigration status updated and notifying authorities of any relevant changes.

Many myths surrounding the Green Card process can cause confusion. Misinformation can lead people to miss valuable opportunities or make mistakes that delay or even prevent their application from being approved. That’s why it is essential to understand the Green Card requirements and eligibility criteria before beginning the process.

Every immigration case is unique and subject to different variables. Depending on the path used to apply for residency, not having the proper guidance can result in administrative errors or a lack of knowledge about critical details that could affect the case outcome.

Navigating the immigration system without reliable information or the support of an experienced legal team is not the best decision. Having immigration attorneys on your side can make a significant difference in the speed and success of the process.

Our legal team understands this and is proud to offer dedicated assistance, no matter how complex your case may seem.

13 Myths About the Green Card

Although the term “Green Card” is widely recognized, the Green Card application process, its restrictions, and its benefits are often misunderstood. To clear up common misconceptions, here are 13 myths and the realities behind them:

• Myth: Getting a Green Card is easy.
• Reality: The Green Card process involves complex bureaucratic steps, eligibility requirements, and thorough documentation.
• Myth: Marrying a U.S. citizen guarantees approval.
• Reality: While marriage to a U.S. citizen can help, it does not automatically grant a Green Card. Applicants must prove the marriage is genuine through interviews, relationship evidence, and background checks.
• Myth: You cannot work while waiting for your Green Card.
• Reality: Those applying within the U.S. can obtain a work permit while their case is pending. However, applicants processing their Green Card from abroad must wait for final approval before working legally.
• Myth: A Green Card lasts forever.
• Reality: Most Green Cards are valid for 10 years. However, if obtained through a recent marriage or investment, they are conditional and valid for only 2 years before requiring adjustment to permanent status.
• Myth: Green Card holders cannot be deported.
• Reality: Permanent residency can be revoked if the holder commits serious crimes, violates immigration laws, or remains outside the U.S. for extended periods without proper authorization.
• Myth: A Green Card is the same as U.S. citizenship.
• Reality: Green Card holders are not U.S. citizens and must meet ongoing residency requirements to maintain their status. Citizenship offers additional rights and protections.
• Myth: Any business investment guarantees a Green Card.
• Reality: The EB-5 program allows confident investors to apply for a Green Card, but it requires a significant investment and job creation in the U.S.
• Myth: Family and employment are the only ways to get a Green Card.
• Reality: Other options include the Green Card lottery, refugee and asylum programs, and special programs for crime victims and immigrant minors under SIJS or DACA.
• Myth: Travel is not allowed during the Green Card process.
• Reality: Some applicants can apply for advance parole, which permits short international trips while their Green Card application is pending.
• Myth: You don’t need an attorney to apply for a Green Card.
• Reality: While legal representation is not mandatory, an experienced immigration attorney can prevent costly mistakes and improve your chances of approval.
• Myth: People with an undocumented status cannot apply for a Green Card.
• Reality: Although challenging, pathways such as adjustment of status or provisional waivers exist to help specific undocumented individuals obtain a Green Card.
• Myth: Green Card holders can vote in U.S. elections.
• Reality: U.S. law prohibits Green Card holders from voting in federal, state, or local elections.
• Myth: A Green Card denial is final and cannot be appealed.
• Reality: In some cases, legal remedies allow applicants to appeal or reapply after a denial.

Benefits of Permanent Residency

Obtaining a Green Card is a significant step in securing the life you have built in the U.S. Beyond just an immigration status, it offers stability and access to life-changing opportunities for you and your family.

As a permanent resident, you can live and work legally in the U.S., apply for a Social Security card, and obtain a state driver’s license. Most job opportunities are open to Green Card holders, except for positions reserved explicitly for U.S. citizens.

Another significant benefit is the ability to travel internationally. Short trips outside the U.S. usually will not affect your residency status. However, if you plan to be abroad for an extended period, you may need a reentry permit to avoid complications.

Additionally, Green Card holders enjoy protection under U.S. law, meaning they can:

• Access essential government services.
• Open bank accounts.
• Buy property without extra restrictions.

Maintaining permanent residency is crucial, and only those who wish to become U.S. citizens will need to apply for naturalization. Since every case differs, consulting with a professional legal team ensures you make informed decisions about your immigration future.

How to Obtain a Green Card

Starting the Green Card application process is a crucial step toward your future. However, understanding each phase requires effort. Having clear information is essential.

For most applicants, the first step is for a sponsor—such as a family member or employer—to file an immigration petition on their behalf. In some cases, individuals can submit a petition on their own.

Once the petition is approved and a visa is available in the requested category, the Green Card application follows one of two processes:

• Adjustment of Status: If you are already in the United States.
• Consular Processing: If you are applying from another country.

After applying, additional steps typically include biometric data collection and an interview. If the application is approved, the applicant receives a welcome notice and, shortly after, the Green Card.

Meanwhile, a temporary stamp may be placed on the applicant’s passport to confirm legal status and work authorization. If the application is denied, the applicant will receive a notice explaining the reasons and instructions on possible appeals or reconsideration.

If this process seems overwhelming, don’t be discouraged. With professional legal guidance, you can confidently navigate each step and achieve permanent residency.

Green Card Requirements

Not everyone is eligible for a Green Card. To apply, you must fall into a qualifying category under immigration law.

Here are the essential Green Card eligibility criteria:

Residency through Family

This may be an option if you have a relative in the U.S. Spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens can apply as immediate relatives. Other family members, such as siblings or married children, may qualify but face longer wait times.

Example: Maria, a U.S. citizen, wants to sponsor her husband. As an immediate relative, he qualifies without waiting for a visa to become available.

Residency through Employment

If you have specialized skills, an employer may sponsor you. There are three preference categories based on experience and job type. Notable cases include physicians with national interest waivers and investors creating jobs in the U.S.

Example: Carlos, a highly skilled engineer, receives a U.S. job offer. His employer sponsors him for a Green Card.

Other Eligibility Paths

Other options include asylum, religious worker programs, crime victim visas, and the Diversity Visa (Green Card) Lottery.

Example: Ana, a crime victim who cooperated with law enforcement, qualifies for a U visa and, later, a Green Card.

Consult an experienced immigration law team to confirm whether you qualify. Learn about all your options and requirements.

Get Your Green Card—Don’t Let Myths Hold You Back!

Misinformation can create doubts about applying for a Green Card or its benefits. Encountering false or unclear information might cause unnecessary delays or mistakes in your application.

To avoid these pitfalls, you need clear and reliable guidance. With proper support, you can increase the chances of completing each step correctly.

Now that you understand the unique challenges of each immigration case, you also realize that obtaining a Green Card is much more than just filling out forms—it requires specific documentation and attention to detail.

Making immigration decisions without reliable information can leave you vulnerable. The best way to move forward confidently is by working with a dedicated legal team that understands your story and helps you overcome challenges.

Your Green Card may be closer than you think. With the proper support and strategy, permanent residency is within reach. Don’t let myths or fear hold you back. Protect the life you’ve built and secure the future you want. You deserve peace of mind and a happy life with your loved ones.