One of the most prized benefits that US Permanent Residents enjoy is the opportunity to become an American citizen. As a Permanent Resident of the United States (i.e., a Green Card holder), you have most of the same benefits possessed by American citizens. For example, you can live in any of the 50 states, work in the US legally, attend educational programs, buy a home, start a business, travel to and from the USA, etc. There are additional benefits, however, that you can receive once you become an American citizen. For example, an American citizen can receive a US passport, which can make it easier to travel the world. When you become an American citizen, your children also have the opportunity to receive US citizenship. American citizens can vote in elections as well as run for political office (except President of the United States). Many naturalized American citizens have become members of the US Congress and a famous immigrant actor from Austria became the governor of California. Although Green Card holders can legally work in the USA, there are some jobs that only American citizens can apply for, such as certain government jobs. Furthermore, an American citizen cannot be deported. In order to become an American citizen, a Green Card holder must generally be at least 18 years of age and must have lived in the USA at least five years (only three years in some cases). Another requirement is to have basic knowledge about US history and government. An immigrant is not required to know the English language to become a US Permanent Resident, however, an immigrant must demonstrate that he or she can read, write, speak and understand English to become an American citizen. To read more, click here!