After receiving your green card, you enter an exciting new chapter in your life as a lawful permanent resident of the United States. This status comes with numerous rights and responsibilities. Understanding what to do next is crucial for maintaining your status and making the most of your new opportunities.
What to Do After Receiving Your Green Card
1. Carry Your Green Card
Once you receive your green card, it is essential to carry it with you at all times. The law requires that all permanent residents possess their green card to prove their status when requested by law enforcement or other officials3.
2. Apply for a Social Security Card
As a permanent resident, you are eligible to apply for a new Social Security card without work restrictions. This is important for employment and tax purposes. To apply, visit your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office and provide the necessary documentation, including your green card5.
3. Update Your Address
If you move after receiving your green card, you must update your address with USCIS within 10 days of the move. You can do this online or by submitting Form AR-11, Change of Address2. Failing to update your address can lead to complications in future immigration processes.
4. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities
As a green card holder, you have the right to:
Live and work in the U.S.
Travel outside the U.S.
Apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting eligibility requirements.
However, you also have responsibilities, including:
Obeying U.S. laws.
Filing income tax returns.
Registering for the Selective Service if you are a male aged 18-265.
5. Maintain Your Permanent Resident Status
To keep your green card valid, avoid actions that could jeopardize your status:
Do not abandon your residency by staying outside the U.S. for extended periods (generally over one year).
If you plan to be away for six months or more, consider applying for a re-entry permit before leaving5.
6. Keep Track of Important Dates
Be proactive about maintaining your status by keeping track of important dates:
If you are a conditional resident (e.g., based on marriage), file Form I-751 to remove conditions 90 days before your two-year green card expires.
If you hold a standard green card, renew it every ten years or apply for citizenship when eligible35.
7. Prepare for Naturalization
If you intend to become a U.S. citizen, start preparing early:
Familiarize yourself with the naturalization process and requirements.
Keep records of your residency, employment, and any travel outside the U.S.
If applicable, register with the Selective Service5.
8. Apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)
If applicable, ensure that any Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) are updated or applied for as needed. This is particularly important if you were previously on an EAD before obtaining your green card1.
9. Seek Legal Advice if Necessary
If you have questions about maintaining your status or applying for citizenship, consider consulting an immigration attorney. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation.
10. Engage with Your Community
Being a permanent resident opens up opportunities to engage more fully in American society:
Consider volunteering or joining local organizations.
Participate in community events to build connections and friendships.
See also: How Can I Travel with an Expired Green Card?
11. Stay Informed About Immigration Policies
Keep abreast of changes in immigration laws and policies that may affect your status as a permanent resident. Regularly check USCIS updates or reliable immigration news sources.
12. Travel Wisely
When traveling abroad:
Always carry your green card and passport.
Ensure that trips do not exceed one year unless you have obtained a re-entry permit.
Conclusion
Receiving a green card is a significant milestone that grants you many rights and responsibilities as a permanent resident of the United States. By following these steps—carrying your green card, applying for necessary documents like Social Security cards, maintaining your residency status, preparing for potential citizenship, and staying informed—you can make the most of this new chapter in your life.
Navigating life as a green card holder can be complex but also rewarding as it opens doors to new opportunities in work, education, and community engagement in the U.S.
Related topics:
- Is It Hard to Win the Green Card Lottery?
- How Long After Green Card Can I Apply for Citizenship?
- Why Is My Green Card Taking So Long?
