In the U.S, it is not just a piece of paper that defines your status. It forms your permanent residency status or citizenship. A Green Card and citizenship are often mixed up since at times they are considered the same. They both play a role in creating an American life in a different manner. Being aware of your position and its functioning can be a huge difference to you and your family. If you consider your long-term stay or life in America, understanding what a Green Card is and what citizenship is will help in making a big decision.
Understanding Green Cards
A green card will provide you with the right to be a permanent resident of America and this means that you will be able to live and work in America.. It allows you to be a permanent part of America but not in its fullest sense. Obama, you have some rights like legal protection, but there are often limitations. You do not have the right to vote, and the Green Card can be revoked in case of criminal activities or other serious matters. The Green Cards must be renewed every ten years, and you also have to keep your status by living in the U.S. You have to follow some travel limitations, like being a permanent resident abroad for more than a year.
Defining Citizenship
Citizenship means that you are a full member of American society, with many rights and privileges. You can vote in elections and run for public office, which is not available to Green Card holders. It also does not have to be renewed and is permanent unless you commit a serious crime or betray the U.S. When you travel abroad, you are entitled to more help from the U.S. Embassies and consulates. It is not only a grant of legal rights that makes one become a citizen but a long-term commitment to the country. Part of your legal status is the allegiance to the U.S. Both the green cards and the citizenship are closely related to the USA however the citizenship provides you with the complete feeling of belonging and protection.
Comparing Daily Life with Each Status
Living with a Green Card or citizenship can be really different on a daily basis. With both statuses, you can work and live anywhere in the U.S., but citizens can pursue government jobs having to do with security. Also, citizenship gets you access to more federal benefits in things like education and health. When it comes to taxes, both have to pay taxes, but they are different on how they are treated differently in some cases. In other factors such as civic duties, citizens have to do jury duty and can get a passport of the U.S. Citizenship gives you a greater feeling of long-term security because you do not have to worry about losing your status like a Green Card holder.
The Journey Toward Each Option
The process of applying to become a Green Card holder is not similar to that of becoming a U.S. citizen. There are different processes and requirements for each of the statuses. Whether you are a family member of a citizen, a jobholder, or seeking asylum, there are specific paths to follow for a Green Card. This could take from several months to even many years depending on the pathway and the country of origin. In the case of a citizenship application, expect to be a Green Card holder for at least three to five years before you apply. The process involves filling out forms and having an interview in both cases. Legal resources are available to make things quicker and easier. The correct decision to make will simply be based on your personal and family goals, especially the legal assistance offered by a Green Card application service.
Key Differences to Keep in Mind
Big differences do exist between the Green Card holder and the citizen that may make you decide on one over the other. A Green Card can be changed, but citizenship is permanent and can only be lost in very severe circumstances. Citizens in the U.S. have voting rights, while Green Card holders do not. With citizenship, you have a feeling of security that your status cannot be taken away easily. Green Card holders can lose their status if they do not obey the rules, but citizens are protected by the laws of the country in a better way. You have to think about these differences in the long run, particularly if it has to do with family plan setup and moving from one status to another.
Conclusion
When you are living in the U.S., you must understand the difference between a Green Card and citizenship. Knowing both of these statuses will assist you in making better decisions leading to your future and even your family’s future. Each status provides its own set of rights and obligations. A Green Card may as well be an excellent beginning but citizenship can be the safest future. Whatever is the path you follow, such knowledge will assist you in making decisions that will draw on your own long term security and peace of mind.
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