What Are United States Green Cards?
Green card is the popular name for a permanent resident card or form I-551. Green cards are evidence that their holders have the right to live and work in the United States. The most important act that governs the permanent resident status is the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) of 1952 with amendments. As the name indicates, permanent resident status confers the right to reside permanently in the United States. This contrasts with visas that are issued for temporary stays. A foreigner who intends to spend the rest of his/her life in the United States must follow the provisions of immigration law that outline the conditions for permanent residence (or green cards). Green cards can be acquired through three main venues excluding the lottery. The first venue relies on family members to petition for the foreigner. This family member can be a U.S. citizen or another green card holder. The venue includes battered spouses and widows of U.S. citizens, among other selected groups. The sec
