You’ve lived in the U.S. for years. You pay taxes. Your kids go to school here. But one question still keeps you up at night: Should I become a U.S. citizen?
That’s a question many immigrants ask—and the answer depends on your goals, your travel plans, and what kind of long-term peace of mind you’re looking for. In this post, we break down the key differences between having a green card and becoming a U.S. citizen, so you can make the best decision for yourself and your family.
We’ll also explain how to apply for naturalization using Form N-400, what to know about travel and voting rights, and who you can sponsor under each status.
What Is a Green Card?
A green card, officially called a Permanent Resident Card, gives you the legal right to live and work in the United States. If you have one, you’re considered a lawful permanent resident.
You can get a green card through:
- A family petition using Form I-130 and Form I-130A
- Marriage to a U.S. citizen or a green card holder
- A job offer
- Asylum or refugee status
GREEN CARD HOLDERS ARE ALSO ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR NATURALIZATION AFTER A CERTAIN PERIOD.
Green card processing time varies depending on the type of application, your relationship to the petitioner, and your country of birth. Some people wait less than a year; others wait several years, especially for sibling and adult child petitions.
Green Card Travel Restrictions You Should Know
How Long Can a Green Card Holder Stay Outside the U.S.?
If you’re a green card holder and you leave the U.S. for more than six months—or if you’re only spending brief visits in the U.S. and living mostly abroad—immigration officers may question whether you’ve abandoned your permanent residency. If you’re outside the U.S. for over a year without a valid reentry permit, your green card can be considered abandoned, and you may be denied reentry at the border.
Tip: Always speak with an immigration attorney before planning extended international travel.
What Green Card Holders Can and Cannot Do
Green card holders enjoy many rights, including:
- Living and working permanently in the U.S.
- Applying for U.S. citizenship
- Sponsoring a spouse or unmarried children for a green card
But there are also limits. Green card holders:
- Cannot vote in federal elections
- Cannot vote locally in most jurisdictions
- Must renew their green card every 10 years
- Can lose their status for certain crimes or violations
- Remain subject to deportation in specific cases
Can Green Card Holders Vote?
A common question we hear is: Can green card holders vote?
The answer is no, not in federal elections, and usually not in local elections either.
Even if a city or municipality allows non-citizen voting, doing so could carry serious immigration consequences, including denial of naturalization or even deportation.
What It Means to Be a U.S. Citizen
Becoming a U.S. citizen gives you full legal rights and protections. Citizens can vote in all U.S. elections, cannot be deported, and can apply for a U.S. passport. You also have access to all public benefits, federal jobs, and you can run for elected office.
U.S. citizens can travel to over 180 countries without needing a visa or can get a visa on arrival. That’s a major upgrade from traveling on a foreign passport.
Citizenship is permanent and doesn’t require renewal.
Who You Can Sponsor: Green Card vs. Citizenship
One of the biggest green card vs. citizenship differences is the ability to bring family members to the United States.
Green card holders can sponsor:
- Spouses
- Unmarried children
U.S. citizens can sponsor:
- Spouses
- Children (married and unmarried)
- Parents (if the citizen is over 21)
- Siblings
In most cases, citizenship also means shorter wait times for family visas.
How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship: Form N-400
If you’re ready to take the next step, you’ll file Form N-400 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Most people are eligible after five years of having a green card, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
To apply, you must:
- Have continuous residence in the U.S.
- Pass a basic English and civics test
- Demonstrate good moral character
Follow N-400 instructions carefully, and be ready for an interview, fingerprinting, and a naturalization oath ceremony. Once approved, you’ll officially be a U.S. citizen.
Green Card vs. Citizenship: Quick Comparison
HERE’S A SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON OF KEY BENEFITS FOR GREEN CARD HOLDERS VS. U.S. CITIZENS:
|
Benefit |
Green Card |
U.S. Citizenship |
|---|---|---|
|
Live and work in the U.S. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Vote in elections |
No |
Yes |
|
Sponsor spouse and kids |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Sponsor parents and siblings |
No |
Yes |
|
Deportation risk |
Yes |
No |
|
Travel freely |
Limited |
Yes (with U.S. passport) |
|
Must renew documents |
Yes (every 10 years) |
No |
|
Access to federal jobs |
Limited |
Yes |
Is It Time to Apply for Citizenship?
If you meet the requirements, becoming a U.S. citizen offers stronger protection, more rights, and greater peace of mind. You’ll gain:
- Freedom to vote and travel
- The ability to sponsor more family members
- Stability and security that permanent residency doesn’t fully provide
If you’ve been outside the U.S. for long periods, have a criminal record or were ever in Immigration Court – talk to an immigration lawyer before you file.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between a green card and U.S. citizenship is key to planning your future. At Solovyova Law Firm, we help clients navigate every step—whether you’re applying for a green card, preparing for naturalization, or unsure what’s right for your situation.
Schedule a consultation to get clear, compassionate guidance on your next steps.
