What rights does a lawful permanent resident have in the United States?

Immigrants who are in the United States as permanent residents or Green Card holders enjoy many of the same benefits and freedoms as US citizens under Federal Law .

In addition, permanent residents are also protected by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 , which states that they have the right to be free from discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, and national origin, in employment, education, health care, housing, and other environments.

They access all the benefits of permanent residents, as long as they do not commit any action that could cause them to be deported under immigration law.

Work and benefits

You can legally work any job that suits your qualifications, and get public benefits like Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare , as long as you qualify.

Once qualified, it is possible to apply to become a US citizen, and apply for permanent residence for your spouse, and unmarried children under 21 years of age.

Social security benefits may include help with the cost of food (food stamps), child care, and may receive assistance with health care costs.

A permanent resident must be careful about some of these rights:

1. A firearms-related conviction
2. Vote in a federal election
3. Leaving the United States under certain circumstances and other actions could result in ineligibility for citizenship and, in some cases, even result in revocation of permanent resident status and therefore deportation.

Properties and extended travel

They can also own property in the United States, and apply for a driver's license in their state or territory, as well as leave and return to the country under certain conditions.

It is important to clarify that you cannot leave the United States for an extended period of time, preferably no more than six months, or move to another country to live there permanently.

Those who wish to remain abroad for six months or more must present the appropriate documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services ( USCIS ) that establish that they do not intend to abandon their permanent resident status. .

You should also avoid traveling outside the United States if your residency is about to expire.

You can attend public schools and colleges, and join certain branches of the United States Armed Forces .

The permanent resident is protected by all the laws of the United States, their state of residence and local jurisdictions.

You have the right to vote in local (but not federal) elections where US citizenship is not required. There are some jurisdictions where permanent residents can vote in local elections. Some cities and states make concessions for non-citizens who wish to vote.