What Is a Commuter Green Card?
Key Differences: Commuter vs Regular Green Card
Here’s a comparison of the main features of a regular green card and a commuter green card:
| Feature | Regular Green Card | Commuter Green Card |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Residency | Must live in the U.S. | Lives in Canada or Mexico |
| Access to Benefits | Full access (e.g. Social Security, in-state tuition) | Limited or none |
| Path to Citizenship | Eligible after 3–5 years | Not eligible while in commuter status |
| Work Authorization | Yes | Yes (must commute for work) |
| Healthcare & Taxes | May qualify for U.S. programs | Limited; still taxed on U.S. income |
| Family Sponsorship | Allowed | More difficult in commuter status |
Important Reminders
- You cannot apply for U.S. citizenship while using commuter status.
- To apply for naturalization, you must switch to full-time U.S. residence.
- Missing your six-month entry window may result in losing your green card.
Should You Use Commuter Status?
If you work in the U.S. but still live in Canada or Mexico, commuter status may be a short-term solution. However, if your goal is to live in the U.S. or apply for citizenship, switching to regular green card status is usually better.
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