In a previous article (What Do I Need to Do After Receiving My Green Card) we discussed what actions you need to take after receiving your green card to preserve your legal permanent status. We advised that it is necessary that you follow through in taking all applicable actions, or risk losing your Green Card and the many benefits that come with it.
What are the main benefits of having a Green Card?
- Live 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;
- Apply for a Social Security Card;
- Apply for a state issued driver’s license;
- Be protected by all laws of the United States, your state of residence and local jurisdictions;
- Obtain readmission to the U.S. after a trip abroad if you do not leave for longer than one year; *
- Apply for in-state tuition in colleges and universities;
- Apply for government sponsored financial aid for education;
- Sponsor your immediate relatives (spouse and unmarried children under 21) to obtain a Green Card;
- Apply for social security retirement benefits after working in the U.S. for ten years;
* If your trip will last longer than one year, a re-entry permit will be needed.
If you have any questions about your Green Card benefits or any other immigration matter, contact our attorneys at the Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. Our experienced immigration attorneys can address your concerns and advise you of the proper course of action.