Immigrating to the United States: 5 things to keep in mind after obtaining a green card!

1. Carry your green card with you at all times.

U.S. law requires that anyone 18 years of age or older carry proof of their U.S. residency at all times. Therefore, once you receive your green card, you must carry it with you at all times. Just in case, it's best to make a copy of your green card beforehand, as evidence should you reapply if it is lost.

2. After each move, you must apply for a change of address with the immigration office.

Before you become a citizen, if you move within the United States, you are legally required to notify the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within 10 days. Failure to notify your new address has very serious consequences. You could face fines of 0 to 00; up to six months in jail; and if you fail to file a notification form after moving, ICE can legally deport you. If ICE really wants to cause trouble, even a seemingly minor issue like not reporting a move can escalate into a major problem.

3. Replace Social Security Card

Your Social Security card has the words "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION" printed on it. You can apply for a new Social Security card after you obtain your green card. The new Social Security card will have the same card number as the old one, but the aforementioned words will be removed.

4. Registration and service screening service

U.S. law requires all male U.S. residents aged 18 to 25 to register for a screening service. Failure to register can affect future applications for U.S. citizenship.

5. Tax obligations

From the moment you receive your U.S. green card, you are required to file taxes like a U.S. citizen. Filing taxes as a non-resident or using tax treaties between countries to avoid or underpay taxes may lead to an IRS audit and could potentially result in the cancellation of your green card. If your assets outside the U.S. total ,000 or more, you are also obligated to report your overseas assets to the IRS.

In addition to the points mentioned above, you must also be aware that: If you leave the country for a short period and return within six months, there will be no problem. However, if your stay abroad exceeds six months, be prepared that you may receive a warning upon entry, either verbally or marked in your passport. If your stay exceeds one year, you must apply for a reentry permit and have your fingerprints taken before leaving the country. Even with a reentry permit, prolonged stays abroad may affect your entry into the US, the maintenance of your green card, and your future eligibility for permanent residency.