To start with, it’s necessary to understand exactly what the historical purpose of a Green Card has been. The cards were originally green in color, which is where the name comes from. However, through the many changes undergone by the Green Card, it has actually become a lovely pastel pink document. And if that’s news to you, consider this: it’s no longer called a "Green Card"; the document’s proper name is now the "Alien Registration Receipt Card," given to individuals who become a legal permanent resident of the United States.

The card functions as a U.S. entry document for those attempting to enter the United States, providing legal sanction for permanent residents to return to the U.S. after temporary absences. The Green Card is received only within the U.S. borders but can be applied for anywhere. The primary benefit conferred by the card is its permanence. Unlike a temporary visa, you cannot lose your Green Card unless you abandon your U.S. residence or commit certain crimes. Nevertheless, a new, updated Green Card must be applied for every ten years.

Green cards also confer most of the rights of naturalized U.S. citizens on the holder. Basically, there are very few differences between the holder of a Green Card and someone with full citizenship. Typically, Green Card holders can live in the U.S. for as long as they like, and can work for most kinds of employers.

Should one wish to become a full-fledged U.S. citizen, a different set of legal standards will be applied. Therefore, those looking to become naturalized in Florida may wish to contact a good immigration lawyer in Miami or an immigration lawyer in Orlando. However, the question seems obvious: if "Green Card" holders receive basically the same benefits as U.S. citizens, why would anyone want to become naturalized?

There are several important reasons, such as tax consequences: U.S. citizens and permanent residents aren’t always treated the same, especially on estate taxes. In addition, there is the matter of immigration for family members; U.S. citizens gain precedence when seeking to bring in family members.