Lawful Permanent Resident [LPR] Defined (Also known as “Green Card”)

Permanent residence status accords the privilege of permanently residing in the U.S. as an immigrant. LPR status can be lost (i.e. through the commission of a crime or abandonment). Although an LPR may have multiple residences, a U.S residence must be the permanent one. Otherwise, LPR status can be lost.

A card, known as a “Green Card” is issued as evidence of acquiring LPR status. Acquiring LPR status can be achieved through sponsorships in the following categories:

1) family based;
2) employment based;
3) refugee and asylum;
4) other ways.

The “Green Card Processes & Procedures” page provides additional information on:

  • Green Card Eligibility: Learn who can apply for permanent residence
  • Adjustment of Status: Learn about the multi-step process for individuals inside the United States that want to get a Green Card
  • Consular Processing: Learn about the multi-step process for individuals outside the United States that want to get a Green Card.

If you are already a Green Card holder, see the After the Green Card Is Granted webpage for information on: