Immigrant Visas “Green Cards”
The “green card” is evidence of status as a Lawful Permanent Resident (”LPR”) of the U.S. Such status may be gained either after entering the U.S. with an immigrant visa or by “adjusting status” from nonimmigrant to immigrant status in the U.S. LPR status permits an individual to live and work in the U.S. permanently (provided the individual does not engage in criminal activities which could result in the removal of permanent residence status and deportation from the U.S.).
Individuals with LPR status may freely change employers and generally possess all rights and obligations of U.S. citizens, except the right to vote, serve on juries, obtain certain employment with the U.S. government, and carry a U.S. passport.
There are a number of ways an individual may apply for a green card. Processing times for greens cards vary and in many cases extend for years. A green card is considered a permanent visa or immigrant visa, meaning once an individual is issued a green card, s/he may live and work in the U.S. permanently with no restrictions. In many cases, immediate family members (spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21) may accompany the principal applicant in the application process.