When you marry someone who has lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. (a “green card”), you can apply for permanent resident status, too. if you’re already in the U.S. and you’re eligible under the rules, you can ask USCIS to adjust your status to permanent resident.

A marriage-based green card (or “spousal visa”) is an immigrant visa available to the spouses of U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Although the process can seem daunting, most couples do qualify for a marriage-based green card if one spouse is a U.S. citizen or green card holder.

Can spouses of green card holders work?

A marriage green card allows the spouse of a U.S. citizen or green card holder to live and work anywhere in the United States. A green card holder will have “permanent resident” status until they decide — if they wish — to apply for U.S. citizenship, for which they become eligible after three years.

Can you marry a permanent resident?

Qualifying for a Green Card Based on Marriage to a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident. If you marry a U.S. permanent resident, you must apply for an immigrant visa under the Family Second Preference category (F2A). Your experience will be different than that of someone applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen.

Can a green card holder bring their family to the US?

As a Green Card holder (permanent resident), you may petition for certain family members to immigrate to the United States as permanent residents. You may petition for the following family members: Spouse (husband or wife)

What are the responsibilities of a green card holder?

Expected to support the democratic form of government (“support” does not include voting. Permanent residents cannot vote in federal, state, or local elections.); and Required to register with the Selective Service, if you are a male age 18 through 25.

Can a green card holder get Social Security?

You have recently become a US citizen by naturalization and haven’t worked enough quarters to have social security coverage. You are a lawfully admitted alien (green card holder) and have constantly lived in the United States for 5 years or longer and don’t qualify for the Social Security benefits

Can a green card holder qualify for Medicaid?

Immigrants who are “qualified non-citizens” are generally eligible for coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), if they meet their state’s income and residency rules. In order to get Medicaid and CHIP coverage, many qualified non-citizens (such as many LPRs or green card holders) have a 5-year waiting period.