The number of immigrants to the United States broke the record in 2022 with 47 million foreigners resident in the country. This is due to the increase of citizenship and permanent residence granted by the government, according to the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS). But which is the best and how do they differ?
Both allow people to legally and indefinitely live within the North American country. However, residents often have more restrictions.
Permanent residence in the United States
Each year, the US government grants up to 55,000 diversity visas to allow permanent residency or “Green Cards” to people from low-immigration countries, renewable every 10 years. The Diversity Visa Program is known as the “visa lottery”.
Residents have the right to live and work in the country indefinitely. They can also request that immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) get it. However, they can be expelled for reasons related to criminal activities such as forgery of documents, serious crimes, terrorist activities, espionage and in general behavior interpreted as a threat to national security.
While they can travel freely to and from the United States, they should be extra cautious when leaving the country, as if you’re traveling for more than a year, your status can be revoked. If necessary, it is advisable to request the re-entry permit in advance.
It is generally revoked when a misdemeanor of non-compliance with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) residency requirements is committed.
Nor do they have the right to vote in elections for president, senators and congressmen, or to run for public office.
Citizen of the United States
The Citizens are entitled to receive a US passport issued by the US Department of State. Furthermore, they can leave and enter the country without any restrictions, live in another country indefinitely and are not subject to deportation.
They can also apply for legal permanent residence for immediate family members, which include their spouse, parents, and unmarried children under the age of 21.
Citizens have the right to vote in United States legislative, state, local, and presidential elections and to hold public office.
For more information on this topic, visit the US Department of State website at www.usa.gov/espanol/agencias-federales/departamento-de-estado.
Source: Clarin
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.