A Green Card is an official document that grants a non-U.S. citizen the legal right to live and work permanently in the United States. Also known as a Permanent Resident Card, it serves as proof of lawful permanent residency and is often a key step toward U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

Green Cards can be obtained through various paths, including family sponsorship, employment, refugee or asylum status, the Diversity Visa Lottery, or other special programs. Green Card holders can live and work anywhere in the U.S., travel abroad (with some restrictions), and access certain government benefits. However, they must maintain their residency status and avoid serious legal issues to keep their Green Card. After a certain period—usually five years—Green Card holders may become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship if they meet additional requirements.