A Green Card (permanent resident) grants an individual authorization to live and work within the U.S. on a permanent basis. Most individuals are sponsored by a family member or by an employer in the U.S.
Naturalization is the next step in the immigration process following Permanent Residence. Naturalization is the complex process by which a foreign national who is a green card holder can become a U.S. citizen.
During the 90 days before the second anniversary of the date you obtained conditional resident status you must file to remove the conditions. Failure to file may result in loss of your resident status.
If a person is inadmissible to the United States, their visa application will be denied. Specific inadmissibility grounds can be waived. When visa applicants consult with an immigration attorney prior to submitting the visa application, they can be prepared with an appropriate immigration waiver.
The fiancé visa allows a foreign national to enter the US for up to 90 days for the purpose of marrying a US citizen (fiancés of green card holders do not qualify for a K-1 visa).
Beginning August 15th, 2012, individuals who demonstrate that they meet the guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of 2 years, subject to renewal, and may be eligible for employment authorization.