Immigrating to the United States
Immigrating to the United States At Maimone Legal, we understand that the process of
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Residency (Greencard)
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A green card is the common name for the U.S. Permanent Resident Card, which allows a foreign national to live and work permanently in the United States.
Holding a green card makes you a lawful permanent resident (LPR), one step below U.S. citizenship. It gives you many of the same rights as citizens, with some exceptions (like voting in federal elections).
Key Points:
Grants lawful permanent resident (LPR) status
Allows you to live and work permanently in the U.S.
Provides a path to U.S. citizenship (usually after 3–5 years)
Green card is typically valid for 10 years (renewable)
Conditional green cards (from marriage or investment) are valid for 2 years
Holders can travel internationally, but long trips may risk status
You can sponsor family members (spouse and children) for immigration
Must pay taxes and obey U.S. laws
Cannot vote in federal elections
Must keep USCIS updated with any address changes
Maimone Legal
Everything you need to know about the Greencard
Live and work permanently in the U.S.
Travel in and out of the U.S. (with some restrictions)
Sponsor certain family members for immigration
Path to U.S. citizenship after a few years (typically 3 or 5)
Access to public education and benefits in some states
Legal protection under U.S. law
Family-based sponsorship
Spouses, parents, children, or siblings of U.S. citizens or green card holders
Employment-based sponsorship
Skilled workers, professionals, extraordinary ability, or investors
Green card lottery (Diversity Visa)
For nationals of underrepresented countries
Refugee or asylum status
After one year of being granted protection
Special categories
Victims of abuse (VAWA), crime victims (U visa), human trafficking (T visa)
- Typically valid for 10 years (renewable)
Conditional green cards (through marriage or investment) are valid for 2 years, then must be upgraded to permanent status
Green card holders can petition for:
Spouses and children (unmarried)
After becoming a U.S. citizen, they can also sponsor parents and siblings
Obey all U.S. laws
Pay taxes
Carry proof of permanent residency
Avoid extended trips abroad (which may jeopardize status)
Update address with USCIS
