Green Card
Definition
An official identification document that grants a non-citizen the legal status of permanent resident of the United States.
Explanation
A green card, officially called a Permanent Resident Card, allows a person who is not a U.S. citizen to live and work permanently in the United States. Green card holders have most of the same rights as citizens but cannot vote in federal elections and must maintain their residence in the United States. They can travel internationally but may lose their status if they are outside the country for more than one year without special authorization. After holding a green card for five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), a person may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
Why this matters for your test
Understanding permanent resident status and the green card process is relevant to the USCIS civics test, especially regarding immigration pathways and requirements for U.S. citizenship.
Source: USCIS 128 Civics Questions (2025)