You must go through a multi-step process to obtain a permanent Green Card. This process varies depending on your particular circumstances. In most cases, applicants are required to fill out an application, complete an immigrant petition, and undergo a medical examination as part of the process. The permanent Green Card process can take several years to complete, depending on the applicant's country of origin and reason for applying. A "Green Card" awards you official immigration status and makes you a permanent resident of the United States. Permanent residency allows you to live and work in the United States for the rest of your life. Most immigrants will be granted a temporary Green Card first, and then must apply for a change of status for a permanent green card within a specific time period (usually two years). Before a Green Card holder can apply for permanent citizenship via the naturalization process, he or she needs to fulfill a residency requirement.