The Permanent Resident Card (PRC), also commonly known as the Green Card, is an official document issued by immigration authorities to lawful permanent residents (LPRs) of the United States. It serves as evidence of an individual’s status as a permanent resident and grants them the right to reside and work indefinitely in the United States.

Key aspects of the Permanent Resident Card (PRC) include:

1. Proof of permanent residency: The PRC serves as official proof of an individual’s status as a lawful permanent resident of the United States. It contains important information such as the individual’s name, photograph, date of birth, Alien Registration Number (A-number), and the card’s expiration date.
2. Identification and documentation: The PRC is an important form of identification for permanent residents and is commonly used to verify identity and employment eligibility in the United States. It may be required for various purposes, such as obtaining a driver’s license, opening bank accounts, and accessing government services.
3. Travel document: The PRC also serves as a travel document for permanent residents traveling internationally. It allows permanent residents to re-enter the United States after temporary trips abroad without the need for additional visas or permits, provided they meet certain residency and travel requirements.
4. Renewal and replacement: The PRC is typically valid for a period of ten years and must be renewed before it expires to maintain valid status as a permanent resident. Permanent residents must apply for renewal of their PRC within a certain timeframe before the expiration date. Additionally, individuals whose PRC is lost, stolen, damaged, or contains incorrect information may apply for a replacement card.
5. Conditions and restrictions: The PRC may contain certain conditions or restrictions depending on the individual’s immigration status. For example, individuals who obtained permanent residency through marriage to a U.S. citizen may initially receive a conditional PRC, which requires them to remove the conditions on their residency within a specified period.

Overall, the Permanent Resident Card (PRC) is a crucial document for lawful permanent residents of the United States, providing proof of their immigration status and facilitating their rights and privileges as residents of the country. It represents a significant step in the immigration process and offers stability, security, and opportunities for permanent residents to build a life in the United States.