Permanent resident card (green card)

In plain terms: the permanent resident card, commonly called the green card, is the card that proves a person is a lawful permanent resident of the U.S.

The card itself is usually valid for 10 years and is renewed, but permanent resident status doesn’t expire. A permanent resident can live and work in the U.S. long term.

What it means for you: the green card is the end goal of the EB-3 process and the point when the sponsored worker starts work. It’s also an acceptable document for Form I-9 on the worker’s first day.