Although they do not have all the rights of U.S. Citizens, permanent residents (“LPRs”) do gain several new rights. Some of these new rights include the following.
Live Permanently in the U.S.
LPRs are not required to leave the U.S. after a set amount of time. If they do choose to travel outside the U.S., USCIS advises them not to leave for an extended period of time unless the circumstances show that the trip is for a temporary purpose, such as caring for a family member, going to school, or working a temporary job.
Work in the U.S.
LPRs may accept an offer of employment without special restrictions or employer immigration sponsorship. There are, however, certain positions that require security clearances or are federal positions that are restricted to U.S. citizens.
Receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare Benefits
To receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), LPRs must have a total of 40 credits of work in the U.S. A credit is earned for every quarter of work performed in which the LPR earns a set minimum income. A spouse’s or parent’s work may also count towards those 40 credits.
Receive Federal Financial Aid
LPR college students can qualify for federal financial aid in the forms of grants, loans, and work study.
Petition for Family Members to Immigrate to the U.S.
LPRs may petition for spouses and unmarried children to adjust status or come to the U.S. as permanent residents. A formal petition process is required and the spouse or child may need to wait to receive their own green card until a visa becomes available.
If you have questions about any of the above, please feel free to contact me through the “Contact Us” link on my website or by emailing info@pdortegalaw.com. I’d also love to assist with any green card extensions or future petitions!
Sources:
Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants, www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/guides/M-618.pdf. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
“Family of Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents).” USCIS, 14 July 2015, www.uscis.gov/family/family-of-green-card-holders-permanent-residents.
“Lawful Permanent Residents.” Office of Homeland Security Statistics, ohss.dhs.gov/topics/immigration/lawful-permanent-residents#:~:text=LPRs%20may%20accept%20an%20offer,they%20meet%20certain%20eligibility%20requirements. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Noncitizens, www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-11051.pdf. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
“Social Security.” SSA, www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/credits.html. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
