A permanent resident is someone who has been granted authorization to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. As proof of that status, a person is granted a permanent resident card, commonly called a "green card."
You can become a permanent resident several different ways, such as being sponsored by a family member or employer in the United States. The steps to getting a green card vary depending on which category you fall under.
Learn more about the options and steps to becoming a permanent resident .