green card

American  

noun

green cards plural

1. an official card, originally green, issued by the U.S. government to foreign nationals permitting them to work in the U.S.

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green card British  

noun

1. an official permit allowing the holder permanent residence and employment, issued to foreign nationals in the US

2. an insurance document covering motorists against accidents abroad

3. social welfare (in Britain) an identification card issued by the Manpower Services Commission to a disabled person, to show registration for employment purposes and eligibility for special services See also handicap register registered disabled

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• green-carder
  noun

Inflected Forms

Nouns

• green cards
  plural

Etymology

Origin of green card

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

She was marrying Chip for a green card.

From Salon • Jun. 30, 2026

"We're still a little scared," Aliah, who has a green card, told the BBC.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2026

Without a permanent green card, it is harder for legal permanent residents “to work, open bank accounts, secure housing, obtain health insurance, and enroll in school,” Jackson noted.

From Slate • Jun. 23, 2026

After a backlash, the administration defended the policy, saying it won’t prevent anyone who qualifies for a green card from getting one.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026

“So I know folks in this other bigger place, but the good thing about this one is they’ll get you a work visa and start your green card process.”

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie