WHAT DOES LAWFUL PERMANENT RESIDENT MEAN?

A Lawful permanent resident (LPR), also known as having a “green card”, is non-citizen who has been lawfully authorized to live permanently within the United States. A Lawful permanent resident may also apply to become a U.S. citizen if certain eligibility requirements are met.

Rights & Responsibilities of a Lawful Permanent Resident

Lawful Permanent Residents may:

  • Accept an offer of employment without special restrictions
  • Own property
  • Receive financial assistance at public colleges and universities
  • Join the Armed Forces

Responsibilities of a Lawful Permanent Resident include:

  • Obeying all laws of the United States state laws, and municipal laws
  • Filing income tax returns and reporting income to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities
  • Respecting the US democratic form of government and not working to change the government through illegal means
  • Registering with the Selective Service for the US Armed Forces if you are a male age 18 through 25