What Happens After a Green Card is Issued-and the Path to U.S. Citizenship
Obtaining a green card is a major legal milestone. LPR status allows the holder the ability to live and work in the United States on a long-term basis.
However, permanent residence carries certain ongoing legal obligations on the path towards naturalization.
Below, we outline what happens after a green card is issued, how to protect permanent resident status, and the steps involved in naturalization.
After a Green Card Is Issued
Once the application is approved, the applicant becomes a lawful permanent resident of the United States. This status allows long-term residence, provided the individual complies with U.S. immigration law.
The Rights of Lawful Permanent Residents
Green card holders are generally permitted to:
Live anywhere in the United States
Work without employer sponsorship
Travel internationally (subject to certain limitations)
Petition certain qualifying family members for permanent residence
Access federal, state, and local benefits
The physical green card serves as evidence of lawful status and employment authorization, and should be carried at all times.
Legal Obligations
Permanent residents are required to:
Comply with all federal, state, and local laws
File U.S. tax returns as residents
Notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of address changes (VERY important)
Carry proof of lawful permanent resident status
Register for the Selective Service if required by age
Failure to meet these obligations may lead to serious immigration consequences, which can include removal proceedings.
How to Protect Permanent Resident Status
While a green card may provide some protection from loss of status, there are some limitations. Certain actions are likely to place permanent residence at risk.
International Travel and Residence Abroad
Extended travel outside the United States can jeopardize permanent resident status:
Absences of more than six months may disrupt continuous residence
Absences of one year or more may result in abandonment of status
Individuals who anticipate extended time abroad should seek legal guidance in advance of travel.
Criminal and Immigration Violations
Certain criminal convictions, immigration fraud, or misrepresentation may lead to removal proceedings — even for long-term residents. Any arrest or charge should be reviewed with an immigration attorney before further action is taken.
When Is a Green Card Holder Eligible for Naturalization?
General Eligibility Requirements
Most applicants may apply after:
Five years of lawful permanent residence, or
Three years if married to and residing with a U.S. citizen
Applicants may file up to 90 days before meeting the applicable residency requirement.
Additional requirements include:
Ongoing and continuous residence and physical presence in the United States
Good moral character
Basic English proficiency
Knowledge of U.S. history and government
The Naturalization Process
Step 1: Filing Form N-400
Applicants submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, along with the required filing fee or fee-waiver request and supporting documentation.
Step 2: Biometrics Appointment
USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment for background checks and identity verification.
Step 3: Naturalization Interview and Examination
During the interview, a USCIS officer will:
Review the applicant’s immigration history
Confirm all information provided is complete and accurate, including work, address, and marriage history
Test English language proficiency
Administer the civics examination
Step 4: USCIS Decision
USCIS may approve the application, request additional evidence, or deny the case. Denials may be appealable, depending on the circumstances of the applicant’s case and the reason for denial.
Step 5: Oath of Allegiance
Approved applicants then attend a naturalization ceremony, take the Oath of Allegiance, and receive a Certificate of Naturalization. Citizenship is granted when the oath is administered.
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
U.S. citizenship provides benefits that are not available to permanent residents, including:
The right to vote
Eligibility for federal government employment
Protection from deportation
Expanded family-based immigration options
Eligibility for a U.S. passport
How an Immigration Attorney Can Help
While some permanent residents choose to apply for naturalization on their own, legal representation can be particularly valuable for applicants with:
Extended travel history
Prior arrests or convictions
Previous immigration violations
Complex marriage or employment histories
An experienced immigration attorney can help determine eligibility, identify potential risks if there are any, and guide clients through the process of becoming a U.S. Citizen.