Empowering Immigrants, Strengthening America
A green card gives you lawful permanent resident (LPR) status in the United States, while U.S. citizenship provides full constitutional rights and permanent legal protection. Both allow you to live and work in New Jersey; however, citizenship offers broader rights and stronger long-term security.
Immigration decisions have long-term consequences. Whether you’re considering applying for citizenship or maintaining your green card, our )immigration attorneys in New Jersey can evaluate your eligibility for both and identify any issues that could affect your case. Our legal team at DeCosmo Law will also prepare and review your applications, address any prior immigration or legal concerns, and guide you through each step of the process.
What Exactly is a Green Card?
A green card means you are a lawful permanent resident. You may live and work in the United States indefinitely, as long as you maintain your status.
Green card holders can:
- Work lawfully in the U.S.
- Travel internationally (with limits)
- Apply for certain family members to immigrate
- Qualify for some federal and state benefits
However, permanent residence carries obligations. Extended travel abroad, especially absences of longer than six months, can disrupt continuous residence for citizenship. Absences of one year or more may raise abandonment concerns unless proper documentation is filed. Certain criminal convictions can also make a permanent resident removable under federal immigration law.
What is U.S. Citizenship?
U.S. citizenship is the highest immigration status available. Citizens have full constitutional protections and can’t be deported, unless citizenship is later revoked through formal denaturalization proceedings under 8 U.S.C. § 1451.
U.S. Citizens can:
- Vote in federal, state, and local elections
- Apply for a U.S. passport
- Serve on a jury
- Sponsor a broader range of family members, including parents and siblings
- Access additional federal rights and protections
Citizenship provides permanent security that lawful permanent residence doesn’t.
Key Differences Between U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in New Jersey
The main differences between green card holders and U.S. citizens involve legal rights, protections, and long-term stability.
- Voting: Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections.
- Deportation Risk: Green card holders can face removal for certain violations. Citizens can’t be removed unless citizenship is revoked.
- Travel Flexibility: U.S. citizens can travel without risking their status, while extended absences may jeopardize permanent residence.
- Family Sponsorship: Citizens can petition for more categories of relatives.
- Long-Term Stability: Citizenship eliminates the risk of losing permanent resident status due to abandonment or certain convictions.
How Do You Become a U.S. Citizen?
Most applicants apply through naturalization under 8 U.S.C. § 1427. Generally, you must:
- Hold a green card for five years (or three years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen)
- Meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements
- Demonstrate good moral character
- Pass the English and civics exams
The process includes filing Form N-400, attending biometrics, and completing an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Take The Next Step Towards Citizenship. Talk to Our Immigration Attorneys in New Jersey
If you are deciding between maintaining your green card and applying for U.S. citizenship, DeCosmo Law is ready to help. Our immigration lawyers in New Jersey can assess your situation to determine the option that best fits your specific goals. To arrange your confidential case review, fill out our online form or call 856-361-2122. Se habla español.