A U.S. green card—formally known as a Permanent Resident Card—grants lawful permanent residence, allowing individuals to live and work in the United States while retaining their original citizenship. While this status is designed to be long-term, it comes with ongoing responsibilities. Staying informed, keeping records up to date, and renewing the physical green card on time all play an important role in maintaining lawful status.
Recent developments and closer reviews have highlighted how small oversights—often unintentional—can create challenges. Immigration professionals note that awareness and preparation help permanent residents remain secure and confident in their status.
Below are ten key areas green card holders should be mindful of.
1. Extended Time Outside the United States
Traveling or working abroad is permitted, but long absences can raise questions about whether the U.S. remains your primary home. Trips longer than six months may receive closer scrutiny, and extended stays abroad could be interpreted as abandoning residency. Maintaining regular physical presence in the U.S. helps demonstrate ongoing ties.
2. Limited Connections to the U.S.
Clear ties reinforce permanent residence. A stable U.S. address, employment, bank accounts, tax filings, and close family or school-enrolled children all help show that the United States remains your main home.
3. Serious Criminal Offenses
Minor violations such as parking or traffic tickets are generally not a concern. However, convictions involving fraud, theft, domestic violence, or physical harm can affect permanent resident status and should be taken seriously.
4. Tax Filing Responsibilities
Green card holders must file U.S. tax returns and report worldwide income using Form 1040. Accurate and timely tax filing reflects compliance with U.S. law and supports continued lawful residence.
5. Incorrect Claims of U.S. Citizenship
Claiming U.S. citizenship—whether on employment forms, voter registration documents, or passport applications—can have serious consequences. Even unintentional mistakes in this area can impact permanent resident status.
6. Missing Conditional Green Card Deadlines
Individuals who receive a conditional green card through marriage must file Form I-751 during the 90-day window before the card expires. Filing on time is essential to remove conditions and continue lawful permanent residence.
7. Insufficient Evidence of a Genuine Marriage
Legitimate marriages may still be reviewed if there is limited documentation of a shared life. Joint financial records, shared housing, and other proof of daily life together help confirm the authenticity of the relationship.
8. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information
Providing complete and truthful information is essential. Withholding details about prior immigration issues, past deportations, or employment history—intentionally or unintentionally—can create long-term complications.
9. Not Updating Address Information
Green card holders are required to notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days of moving by filing Form AR-11. Keeping address information current helps prevent delays or misunderstandings during future reviews.
10. Failing to Renew the Green Card on Time
While permanent resident status does not expire, the physical green card typically does. Most green cards must be renewed every 10 years. Allowing the card to expire can cause difficulties with employment verification, travel, and identification, even though residency status itself continues.
Staying Secure as a Permanent Resident
Permanent residency offers long-term stability and opportunity in the United States. By maintaining strong ties, meeting legal obligations, keeping records updated, and renewing the green card when required, lawful permanent residents can protect their status and move forward with confidence.
If your physical green card is expired or nearing expiration, renewing your green card ensures your documentation accurately reflects your lawful permanent resident status and helps avoid unnecessary complications.
