What is commonly referred to as a "green card"?

A "green card" is commonly known as a document that proves lawful permanent residency in the United States. It grants the holder the right to live and work in the U.S. on a permanent basis. Unlike short-term visas, which allow for temporary stays and have specific purposes such as tourism, a green card signifies that the individual has been granted permanent status.

This document is essential for immigrants seeking to establish themselves in the U.S., as it provides access to various rights and benefits, including those related to employment, travel, and eligibility for programs like Social Security and health benefits after a certain time. Thus, the reference to a green card directly correlates with lawful permanent residency, distinguishing it from other immigration-related documents.

Other options refer to different types of immigration statuses or documents: short-term tourist visas allow for temporary visits, employment authorization documents permit individuals to work without permanent residency, and certificates of naturalization are issued to individuals who have completed the process to become U.S. citizens. These distinctions are crucial in understanding the roles of various immigration documents.