If you or someone you love wants to remain in the U.S. legally, it’s natural to have a lot of questions about the immigration process. Immigration law is incredibly complicated, and every family’s situation is different, which means what works for one family may not necessarily work for another. There’s a lot of confusion regarding citizenship and permanent residency in particular. Here is what you should know about the major differences between the two. 

A Primer on Permanent Residency vs. U.S. Citizenship

Permanent Residency

A lawful permanent resident is someone who has obtained a green card. This card is literally green and grants the holder the right to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. Permanent residents may leave the country for a limited amount of time without fear of being unable to return, and they may petition for certain family members to become permanent residents, too. Green card holders do not automatically qualify for federal benefits, though, and may be unable to receive them until they’ve been permanent residents for at least five years. They also cannot vote. U.S. Congress also has broad authority to change the rights of green card holders, so the protections permanent residency offers are mutable. 

U.S. Citizenship 

Under immigration law, citizenship is the highest status that individuals can attain. Unlike green card holders, citizens are never subject to deportation, unless they are denaturalized. Additionally, they enjoy a much longer list of rights, benefits, and protections than permanent residents do. For example, they may petition for more family members to join them in the U.S., including their married children and siblings. They may also vote, serve on juries, hold certain government jobs, obtain a U.S. passport, and leave the country at will for as long as they wish without requiring a re-entry permit. As for financial benefits, they’re entitled to the same assistance programs on which citizens born in this country rely. They can also apply for scholarships and grants only available to U.S. citizens.  

If you want to apply for citizenship or permanent residency, turn to the Law Office of Carmen DiAmore-Siah. Based in Honolulu, HI, this firm has been helping clients navigate complex immigration proceedings for more than two decades. They have translators available for those who speak Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish. To request an initial consultation, call (808) 531-2277. To learn more about their services, visit them online.