Green Card vs Citizenship: Key Differences Guide

Navigating the path to U.S. residency often leads to the critical comparison of a green card vs citizenship. They differ significantly in permanence and privileges, while both grant legal status.

Two major distinctions are the right to vote in federal elections, which is exclusive to citizens, and immunity from deportation, which green card holders do not possess. In this blog, we will discuss the difference between the two, the green card meaning and also learn how you can apply for both.

What are the Differences Between a Green Card vs Citizenship?

Did You Know: Green card is the unofficial name of Legal Permanent Residency (LPR). The card was green in colour for many decades, and the name became synonymous with permanent residency.

What are the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for a Green Card?

Now that you know the difference between a green card vs citizenship, you must be curious about the eligibility criteria. There are different streams through which you can apply for permanent residency. Let’s see below:

Green Card Through Family

You may apply if you meet one of the following criterias:

1. Immediate relative of a US citizen

2. Other relative of a US citizen or LPR

3. Fiancé of a US citizen or the fiancé’s child

4. Widow of a US citizen

Green Card Through Employment

Here are the different routes through which you can apply:

1. Immigrant worker

2. Physician of national interest

3. Immigrant investor

Green Card Through Special Immigrant

If you fall under the following categories, you can apply for a green card:

1. Afghanistan or Iraq national

2. Religious worker

3. International broadcaster

4. Employee of an international organisation or NATO

Apart from these, you can also apply through:

Refugee or asylee status

Human trafficking and crime victims

Registry

Victims of abuse

What are the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Citizenship of the USA?

Becoming a citizen of the United States of America is a complex and challenging process. However, it is not an impossible one. Here’s the criterias:

1. You must be a lawful permanent resident for 5 years

2. You must showcase good moral character

3. You must be at least 18 years old when applying

4. You should be able to read, write and speak basic English

Apart from this, you must fall into at least 1 category from:

1. You are a child of a US citizen

2. You are married to a US citizen and have held a lawful permanent residency for 3 years.

3. You are a member of the US military (active or veteran)

How to Apply for a Green Card as an Indian Citizen?

When searching for what is a green card, many people confuse the entire process. A common misconception is that you must stay in the US while applying. But that’s not the case. You can file for a green card while staying outside the country as an Indian citizen. Here’s how:

Step 1: Determine whether you are eligible for U.S. citizenship.

Step 2: File a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Petitions filed through family or employment are more likely to be approved.

Step 3: Then, you need to submit the relevant forms. For example, for an alien relative, you must submit Form I-130. For special categories, you must submit Form I-360.

Step 4: Wait for your decision from the USCIS. It may take some time.

Step 5: If you are outside the USA, then USCIS will send a petition to the National Visa Centre (NVC) if your petition is approved.

Step 6: NVC will notify you about your immigrant visa number, and you have to pay a fee.

Step 7: You will be called in for an interview to determine whether you are fit to be a visa holder.

Step 8: If you pass the interview, the NVC will give you your Visa Packet. You must not open it before reaching the USA. Produce the visa packet for the US Customs and Border Protection authorities.

Step 9: If they approve your entry, then you can permanently live and work in the USA.

Step 10: Pay the online fees for immigration, and you will receive your green card in the mail within 90 days of your arrival.

How to Apply for US Citizenship as an Indian?

You can apply for US citizenship if you hold a green card. This process is known as naturalisation. For this, you must let go of your Indian citizenship. Here is a step-by-step process for naturalisation:

Step 1: Visit the USCIS official website and create an online account.

Step 2: Fill out the N-400 form and submit it to the USCIS.

Step 3: Prepare for the online civic test. You must correctly answer 12 questions out of 20 to pass the test.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a green card vs citizenship depends on your long-term goals and commitment to life in the United States. While a green card offers lawful permanent residency and the freedom to work, naturalisation provides the ultimate security of non-deportability and the power to participate in democracy through voting.

Understanding these distinctions ensures you can make an informed decision about taking that final step toward becoming a full U.S. citizen.

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FAQs About Green Card vs Citizenship

What's better, a green card or citizenship?

Citizenship is generally better because it offers the highest level of security, including immunity from deportation and the ability to vote in federal elections. While a green card grants permanent residency, citizens enjoy a U.S. passport, easier travel without residency restrictions, and the ability to sponsor more family members for immigration.

Is a green card good for life?

The status of being a permanent resident is valid for life, but the physical card itself usually expires every 10 years and must be renewed. However, you can lose your status permanently if you commit serious crimes, move to another country, or fail to file necessary tax returns.

Can you stay in the US permanently with a green card?

Yes, you can live and work in the United States permanently, provided you maintain the U.S. as your primary residence and do not commit any deportable offences. Unlike a visa, there is no maximum time limit on your stay as long as you follow residency rules.

How can I renew my green card?

You can renew your green card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, either online via the USCIS website or by mail. It is best to file this application six months before your current card expires to account for processing times.

What is the shortest time to get a US citizenship?

The shortest standard path is 3 years if you hold a green card and have been married to and living with a U.S. citizen for that entire duration. Members of the U.S. military may be eligible for an even faster timeline, allowing them to apply almost immediately during active duty service.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

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