What Is a C2 Commuter Green Card?
A C2 commuter green card is for individuals who live in Canada or Mexico but commute to the United States for work. While it grants the holder the right to work in the U.S., it does not count as a permanent residence in the U.S., which is necessary for citizenship eligibility.
Step 1: Transition to Permanent Residence
To pursue U.S. citizenship, C2 cardholders need to change their status to a regular green card holder, signifying permanent residence in the U.S. Here’s how to make that change:
- Establish Residency: Move to the U.S. and prove your intent to live there permanently.
- Notify USCIS: File an I-90 Form Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card to update your status.
Step 2: Meet Residency Requirements
Once you have updated your green card:
- Continuous Residence: Live in the U.S. for at least 5 years as a permanent resident (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Physical Presence: Be physically present in the U.S. for at least half that time.
- Local Residence: Live for at least 3 months in the state where you apply.
Step 3: Prepare for the Citizenship Process
Ensure you meet all the citizenship application prerequisites:
- Good Moral Character: Maintain a clean record and demonstrate good ethical conduct.
- English Proficiency and Civics Knowledge: Pass the English language and civics tests about U.S. history and government.
- N-400 Application: Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
Conclusion
Switching from a C2 commuter green card to U.S. citizenship involves becoming a full-time resident and fulfilling the standard citizenship requirements. To achieve your goal of U.S. citizenship, follow each step carefully. Speak with an immigration lawyer for guidance on your unique situation.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
Citations
- N-400, Application for Naturalization
- I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding U.S. green card requirements, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
JEREMY L. RICHARDS is the founding partner of Richards and Jurusik and has dedicated his career to U.S. immigration law, with a specialized focus on assisting Canadian and Mexican citizens under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to work and live in the United States. (Full Bio)
