US Announces Green Card Rule for Permanent Residents Aged 18 and Above

• The US government has published a rule on its official website outlining a standing legal obligation for all permanent residents aged 18 and older
• The rule states that Green Card holders must keep a valid Permanent Resident Card physically on their person at all times, with no exceptions
• Permanent residents who do not comply risk legal consequences under US immigration law

The United States government has issued a public reminder that all Green Card holders aged 18 and older are legally required to carry a valid Permanent Resident Card on their person at all times, reinforcing an existing obligation under US immigration law.

The announcement was published through the official US government website, making the requirement formally accessible to the millions of individuals living in the country under permanent residence status.

What the green card rule requires

The government's statement is unambiguous: "If you are a permanent resident age 18 or older, you are required to have a valid Green Card in your possession at all times."

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The rule does not provide for exceptions based on circumstances or location within the country. A permanent resident cannot satisfy the requirement by leaving the card at home for safekeeping or storing it elsewhere. The card must be physically accessible on the individual's person at all times.

Crucially, an expired card does not meet the standard set out by the rule. The obligation specifically calls for a valid card, meaning permanent residents must also ensure their documentation has not lapsed before considering themselves compliant.

Legal consequences for non-compliance

A Green Card, formally known as a Permanent Resident Card, serves as proof that its holder has been granted lawful permanent residence in the United States.

Failure to carry a valid card at all times constitutes a breach of the conditions attached to permanent residence status and could expose the holder to legal consequences under immigration law.

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The US government made the rule publicly accessible to ensure that those it affects are fully aware of their responsibilities, particularly given the breadth of the population to which it applies.

The reminder comes at a time of heightened scrutiny around immigration compliance in the United States, with federal authorities placing greater emphasis on the obligations of non-citizens residing in the country.

US announces 2 key benefits green card holders can enjoy

In a related development, YEN.com.gh reported that the US government has listed two benefits available to holders of a Permanent Resident Card.

This move confirms that green card holders have access to specific rights related to employment and personal identification.

Source: YEN.com.gh