Yes, as a lawful permanent resident (LPR), you can generally stay in the United States indefinitely. Your green card grants you permanent residence, which is precisely what the name implies – a status designed to be for life, as long as you adhere to U.S. immigration laws.
Understanding Permanent Residence
Many are surprised to learn that permanent residence truly means you can live in the U.S. for as long as you are alive. The physical green card itself serves as proof of this status, but it is not the status itself. This means that even if you lose your physical green card, you do not lose your status as a lawful permanent resident; you would simply need to obtain a new card.
Maintaining Your Green Card Status
While your permanent resident status is indefinite, it is not unconditional. To ensure you can stay in the U.S. forever, you must actively maintain your status by avoiding actions that could lead to its abandonment or revocation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Avoiding Abandonment of Residence: Extended absences from the U.S. can suggest you have abandoned your permanent residence. Generally, trips outside the U.S. should not exceed one year. For longer planned absences, it's advisable to apply for a Re-entry Permit before leaving.
- Adhering to U.S. Laws: Committing certain criminal offenses, especially aggravated felonies or crimes involving moral turpitude, can lead to deportation proceedings.
- Filing Income Taxes: LPRs are required to file U.S. income tax returns and report all worldwide income to the IRS.
- Not Falsely Claiming U.S. Citizenship: Never claim to be a U.S. citizen when you are not, as this can lead to serious consequences, including removal.
What Can Jeopardize Your Permanent Residence?
Action / Situation | Potential Consequence |
---|---|
Extended absence from the U.S. (typically > 1 year) | Presumption of abandonment of residence |
Committing certain crimes | Removal (deportation) from the U.S. |
Failure to file U.S. income taxes | Evidence of abandonment or other penalties |
Falsely claiming U.S. citizenship | Permanent bar from adjusting status or naturalizing; removal |
Voting in a U.S. election as a non-citizen | Loss of status and removal |
What if Your Green Card Expires or Is Lost?
The expiration date on your physical green card does not mean your permanent resident status expires. Most green cards are valid for 10 years and must be renewed. If your card is expiring or has expired, or if it is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for a replacement card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Replacing your card ensures you have valid proof of your ongoing permanent resident status for employment, travel, and other purposes.
Ultimately, your green card grants you the privilege of permanent residence, a status intended to last for your lifetime, provided you meet your ongoing obligations as a lawful permanent resident.