No employer restrictions. Work for any company, start your own business, or freelance.

Enter and leave the U.S. freely (with time restrictions — see below).

Purchase homes, land, and investment properties anywhere in the U.S.

Attend any school or university. Qualify for in-state tuition, federal financial aid, and scholarships.

Petition for your spouse and unmarried children to get green cards.

Earn credits toward Social Security and Medicare through employment.

Obtain a standard or REAL ID driver’s license in any state.

After 3-5 years, become a full U.S. citizen through naturalization.

Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal, state, and most local elections. Voting illegally can lead to deportation.

Only citizens can hold a U.S. passport. You must travel with your home country passport and green card.

Most elected positions (President, Congress, state legislature) require U.S. citizenship.

Many federal jobs and security clearance positions require U.S. citizenship.

Only U.S. citizens can file petitions for parents, married children, and siblings.

Extended trips outside the U.S. (6+ months) can jeopardize your green card status.

Jury service in federal courts is limited to U.S. citizens only.

Unlike citizens, permanent residents can be deported for criminal offenses or immigration violations.