Green Card Benefits

What is a Green Card?

A green card, officially called a Permanent Resident Card, grants foreign nationals the legal right to live and work permanently in the United States. It is a key step for those seeking U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Green card holders enjoy stability, security, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Learn more about green cards in our guide on how to get a green card or our guide on marriage green cards.

Benefits of a U.S. Green Card in 2025
  1. Permanent Residency: Green card holders can live in the U.S. indefinitely, provided they renew their card every 10 years.
  2. Freedom to Work Anywhere: Unlike visa holders, green card holders can work for any employer in any industry.
  3. Pathway to U.S. Citizenship: Eligible to apply for naturalization after 5 years of permanent residency, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.
  4. Ability to Sponsor Family Members: Petition for spouses and unmarried children to obtain permanent residency in the U.S.
  5. Access to Social Security and Medicare: After 10 years of work in the U.S., green card holders can receive Social Security and may qualify for Medicare at retirement age.
  6. Legal Protections: Enjoy the same legal rights as U.S. citizens under federal and state laws.
  7. Lower Tuition Costs: Eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.
  8. Freedom to Travel: Can travel internationally and return to the U.S. without a visa, though extended trips may affect residency status.
  9. Eligibility for Government Benefits: May qualify for home loans, business grants, and other public assistance programs.
  10. Limited Protection from Deportation: As long as laws are followed, green card holders are generally protected from removal.
Limitations of Green Card Holders
  • No Right to Vote: Cannot participate in federal elections and usually cannot vote in state/local elections.
  • Risk of Losing Status: Extended absence from the U.S. or failure to maintain residency may result in losing permanent residency.
  • Restricted Government Jobs: Many government positions require U.S. citizenship.
  • Potential for Deportation: Committing crimes or violating immigration laws can lead to removal proceedings.
  • Limited Sponsorship Ability: Can sponsor only certain family members, unlike U.S. citizens.
Green Card Holder Responsibilities
  • Obey U.S. Laws: Follow all federal, state, and local laws.
  • File U.S. Taxes: Report and pay taxes on worldwide income to the IRS.
  • Maintain Residency: Avoid prolonged absences without a re-entry permit.
  • Register for Selective Service: Male residents ages 18–25 must register for the draft.
  • Report Address Changes: Notify USCIS within 10 days of moving.
How American immigration law firm LLP Attorneys Can Help

Our team at American immigration law firm LLP simplifies the green card process by offering expert guidance on:

  • Determining the best path to obtaining a green card.
  • Filing the correct applications and documentation.
  • Ensuring compliance with immigration laws and regulations.
  • Handling challenges such as RFEs (Requests for Evidence) or delays.
Contact American immigration law firm LLP for Green Card Assistance

If you are considering applying for a green card or need guidance on your immigration status, our experienced attorneys are ready to help. Call us today at 323-805-0445 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.

Employment Visas

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Contact Me:

Practice Areas:

  • Immigration Law
  • Affirmative and Defensive Asylum
  • Employment Immigration
  • Cancelation of Removal
  • Credible Fear Inerview

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida
  • Miami – 2020
  • Honors: Dean’s List
Universidad Francisco Gavidia, San Salvador
  • B.S. – 2008
  • Major: Engineering

Representative Clients

  • Hispanic

Current Employment Position

  • Senior Partner

Mariano F. Herrera

Mariano Herrera is a passionate and dedicated United States Immigration Attorney originally from El Salvador, Central America. His personal journey as an immigrant to the United States inspired him to pursue a career devoted to helping others navigate the complex path of immigration law. After earning his Juris Doctor from Florida International University (FIU) College of Law and passing the bar exam, Mariano began his practice as an immigration attorney with an unwavering commitment to advocacy and justice. Drawing on his own immigrant experience, Mariano deeply understands the hopes and challenges faced by those seeking a new life in America. He brings empathy, precision, and determination to every case, representing clients before the Immigration Courts and USCIS. His mission is simple yet profound — to help as many immigrants as possible realize their American dream. Mariano’s legal expertise covers a wide range of immigration matters, including business and employment immigration, family-based petitions, asylum, deportation defense, and naturalization. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and steadfast dedication, he ensures that each client receives personalized guidance and strong representation. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Mariano effectively serves a diverse community of clients from around the world. Beyond his legal practice, Mariano is actively engaged in community outreach and education. He regularly leads workshops and seminars to inform immigrants about their rights and legal options, and partners with nonprofit organizations to provide pro bono legal services to those in need. Outside the office, Mariano enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures, and discovering new cuisines — experiences that broaden his worldview and deepen his empathy for clients from all backgrounds. A passionate reader and keen follower of global affairs, he continually enriches his knowledge of immigration trends and international issues. Mariano Herrera’s journey from El Salvador to the United States, combined with his compassion and professional excellence, has made him a trusted advocate and a respected figure in the field of immigration law.

Past Positions

  • Brandis and Associates, Associate Attorney, Feb. 2022 – July 2022

Professional Associations

  • State Bar of Wisconsin, Member, 2020
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member, 2022 – 2023

Bar Admissions

  • El Salvador, 2003
  • Wisconsin, 2020
  • U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit
  • U.S. Immigration Court

Contact Me:

Practice Areas:

  • Immigration Law
  • Business Immigration
  • Employment Immigration
  • Family Based Immigration
  • Non-Immigrant Visas

Education:

Florida International University College of Law, Miami, Florida

  • LL.M – 2020
  • Honors: Dean’s List

Bowling Greend State University, Bowling Green, Ohio

  • M.A.
  • Honors: Dean’s List

Representative Clients

  • Caribbean

Current Employment Position

  • Partner

Juliette A. Potter

Juliette Potter is a highly accomplished United States Immigration Attorney with over two decades of legal experience. She began her legal journey as a Barrister in the United Kingdom and was later admitted as an Attorney-at-Law in Antigua and Barbuda before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

Ms. Potter’s academic background is equally distinguished. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Florida International University College of Law, a Bachelor of Laws (Honors) from the University of Wolverhampton, and a Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica. She also earned a Master’s degree in Organization Development from Bowling Green State University’s College of Business in Ohio.

Her professional experience spans both the corporate and legal worlds. Before entering private immigration practice, she served as Chief Legal Officer for an international group of companies. Today, she is a Licensed Attorney in the State of New York, representing clients before the Federal Immigration Courts of the United States, while also maintaining her active law license in Antigua and Barbuda.

As an immigrant herself, Ms. Potter brings a unique perspective and deep empathy to her practice. Her personal experiences inspire her unwavering commitment to helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law with confidence and care.

Outside the courtroom, Ms. Potter enjoys cooking, traveling, and exploring new cuisines — passions that reflect her appreciation for diversity and global cultures, both in life and in law.

Past Positions

  • The Fairweather Group, Chief Legal Officer, 2012 to 2018
  • Elite Island Holding Company Ltd., Legal Counsel, 2005 to 2012

Professional Associations

  • New York State Bar Association, Member, 2022
  • Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association, Member, 2005
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Member, 2023 – 2024

Bar Admissions

  • England and Wales, 2003
  • Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, 2005
  • New York, 2023