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https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/living-permanently-us-green-card-or-lpr-lawful-permanent-resident
Date: 01/30/2026

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Immigrants & Immigration

immigration_legal_permanent_resident_green_card.jpg
Lawful permanent residency (LPR or green card holder)

Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) are immigrants who are allowed by the government to permanently live and work in the United States. Learn more here.

Green card: supporting document checklist
Find out which supporting documents you need to file for a green card based on employment or a family relationship with a U.S. citizen.
Text article
A child turns 21 before receiving their green card
Discusses if your child is still eligible for a green card once they turn 21 depending on their immigration status.
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Applying for a waiver of inadmissibility
Steps to consider a waiver of inadmissibility if your background check is not approved by Immigration.
How-To
Getting a replacement green card
Get the facts on how to request a replacement green card if yours is lost, destroyed, or expiring.
How-To
Green card: deportation and inadmissibility
Learn the main reasons non-citizens may be ineligible for a green card, including health issues, crimes, security risks, fraud, illegal entry, or deportation history.
Text article
VAWA Cancellation of Removal
This FAQ explores Violence Against Women Act ("VAWA") cancellation of removal for abused immigrants in removal proceedings. This will cancel the removal or deportation of an applicant and grant the applicant lawful permanent residence.
FAQ
Going to immigration court
Explore frequently asked questions about what to expect when going to the Chicago immigration court, what to bring, the people at court like interpreters, and what help is available at the court.
FAQ
Removal proceedings and deportation basics
Learn more about what removal proceedings are, who can be deported, what to expect in immigration court, and possible legal options.
Guide
Should I clear my criminal record for immigration purposes?
This article explains how hiding or erasing your criminal or juvenile record might affect your immigration status.
Text article
How does being charged with a crime affect immigration?
This article explains how being charged with a crime, being found guilty of a crime, and juvenile offenses can influence an immigration case.
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Getting a green card for a family member
This FAQ explores information on green cards for family members, who can qualify, preference categories and which forms to file.
FAQ
Starting the green card application process
Qualifications, how to apply, and the timeline of the application process for a green card.
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Getting relief in immigration court
Learn about legal remedies that a person might be able to argue in immigration court to defend themselves from deportation.
FAQ
Permanent resident vs US citizen
Explains the differences between permanent residents and US citizens.
Text article
Filing documents with immigration for free
Explains how to pay fees and ask for a fee waiver when filing cases with USCIS, which forms qualify, and how to request a waiver.
Guide
Traveling outside of the US for non-citizens
This FAQ discusses what certain non-US citizens should consider when traveling outside of the US.
FAQ
Can I stay in the US if I divorce my sponsoring spouse?
Explains issues that can arise when a person divorces their spouse who has sponsored them for immigration to the US.
Text article

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© 2026 Illinois Legal Aid Online. 
All rights reserved.
 
ILAO is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. ILAO's tax identification number is 20-2917133.