A lawful permanent resident (LPR) is a non-US citizen who has been granted authorization to live and work permanently in the United States. LPRs are issued a Permanent Resident Card (commonly called a "green card"). LPRs can lose their status through certain criminal convictions, extended absences, or abandonment of US residence. As of 2026, approximately 12.8 million people hold LPR status in the United States. LPRs may apply for citizenship through naturalization after meeting residency requirements, typically five years.