Congratulations on receiving your Permanent Resident Card. This is an important milestone and a major step forward in your immigration journey. As a lawful permanent resident, you now have the right to live and work permanently in the United States. At the same time, it is important to understand your responsibilities so you can protect your status and avoid future complications.

First, review your Green Card carefully as soon as you receive it. Make sure your name, date of birth, and A-Number are correct. If there is an error, it is important to address it promptly with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. 

As a Green Card holder, you must comply with all federal, state, and local laws. You are also required to file U.S. income tax returns each year and report your worldwide income. If you move, you must notify USCIS of your new address within 10 days. Male permanent residents between ages 18 and 25 must register with the Selective Service. Long trips outside the United States can also impact your status, so speak with an attorney before extended international travel. We recommend limiting international travel to under 6 months. Travel outside the country for more than 6 months could trigger green card abandonment issues.

If you received a conditional Green Card valid for two years, remember that you must file a petition to remove conditions within the 90-day window before it expires. Missing this deadline can put your permanent resident status at risk. In addition, most permanent residents may become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years (or three years in certain marriage-based cases), provided all requirements are met.

If you have questions about maintaining your Green Card, removing conditions, traveling abroad, or preparing for naturalization, our team is here to help. Contact us at 703-348-1663 to schedule a consultation and make sure you are taking the right next steps to protect your status and plan for your future.

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