Legal definition of Green Card

The green card is a legal document that allows a foreign citizen to reside and work permanently in the United States. The green card authorizes its holder to live in the United States without a visa, enjoying rights similar to those of citizens, except for the right to vote and serve on a jury. Issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this pass is valid for a renewable period of 10 years.

The green card is the best option for building a life in the United States, whether alone or with family. It allows you to work without restrictions for any employer, access quality healthcare, and enroll your children in American public schools. Green card holders also benefit from the country’s economic and political security. Students with a green card have a higher chance of being admitted to American universities.

However, it is important to highlight that the green card is distinct from American citizenship. Green card holders cannot vote in federal elections or run for elective office. The green card does, however, allow for naturalization after 5 years of permanent residence if it was obtained through an employment visa, or after 3 years if obtained through marriage.

Various means are available to obtain the green card

• Family sponsorship : Spouses, minor children, and parents of U.S. citizens can be sponsored. Siblings, as well as unmarried and married adult children, are also eligible.
• Employer sponsorship : An American employer can sponsor a foreign worker without the need for prior residence. The process includes labor certification by the U.S. Department of Labor.
• Exceptional skills : Individuals with exceptional skills can obtain a green card without an employer sponsor. They must demonstrate that their skills benefit the United States.
• Investment : Foreign investors can qualify for a green card by making a substantial investment in the U.S. economy and creating jobs for local workers. They must apply through a specialized program designed for this purpose.
• Lottery via the diversity immigrant visa program : This program offers 50,000 green cards annually to nationals of countries with low immigration rates. Registration is free, and winners are chosen randomly.
• As a refugee or asylum seeker : The government offers the green card to individuals who face physical or moral persecution in eligible countries.

Etymology of Green Card

The term “green card” stems from the Latin word “charta” meaning “sheet of paper” or “written document,” and “viridis” meaning “green.” Etymologically, this expression refers to a document that grants privileged access to a status. In the American immigration system, it refers to a pass that confirms the permanent resident status in the United States of a foreign citizen.

The “green card” also derives its name from the color of the paper used for Form I-151, the precursor to the card that was used until 1964. After this date, although it changed colors several times for security reasons, it continued to be commonly referred to as the “green card”. In 2006, it became white on the front with green security features on the back.