A permanent resident is someone who has been granted authorization to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. As proof of that status, a person is granted a permanent resident card, commonly called a "Green Card." As a permanent resident (Green Card holder), you have the right to:
• Live, work or retire permanently in the United States provided you do not commit any actions that would make you removable under immigration law.
• Work in the United States at any legal work of your qualification and choosing.
• Travel outside the United States and return without a visa.
• Apply to public colleges and universities under same costs and admissions tests of U.S. citizen.
• Send children at no cost to any public elementary, middle and high school.
• Open U.S. bank accounts, buy property, and obtain a driver’s license.
• Be protected by all laws of the United States, your state of residence and local jurisdictions.
• Eligible to obtain U.S. citizenship (U.S. passport) in only five years.
