Outlook Business Desk
Following the arrest of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil for his involvement in student protests, US Vice President JD Vance said in an interview on Fox News, "A green card holder doesn't have an indefinite right to be in the United States."
Mahmoud Khalil is a key figure in the pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University. He was arrested last week by federal immigration authorities during the Trump administration. Officials stated that Khalil was detained due to the revocation of his student visa.
Khalil's case underscores the fragile nature of permanent residency. Vice President Vance explained, "This isn't just about free speech. While national security is a factor it's ultimately about who we as American citizens choose to welcome into our national community."
The debate intensified with President Donald Trump's proposal for a "gold card" programme allowing wealthy foreigners to buy the right to live and work in the US for $5 million. Describing it as a potential path to citizenship and an alternative to the EB-5 investor visa.
Green card holders have the right to live and work in the US, but their privileges are not the same as those of citizens. Vance stated, "If the president and secretary of state decide someone should no longer stay, they have no legal right to be here — it's as simple as that."
The rights of green card holders are complex, requiring them to follow laws and pay taxes. Experts assert that they share the same First Amendment protections as US citizens, meaning peaceful protest is generally "not a valid reason" for revoking a green card. Green cards are only revoked for serious crimes or clear legal violations.
Green card holders must follow all US federal and local laws, file income tax returns and report earnings to the IRS and state tax authorities. They are also expected to uphold the democratic system though they cannot vote in elections. Additionally, males aged 18 to 25 are required to register with the Selective Service.
Under US law, a green card can be revoked for reasons such as criminal offenses or noncompliance with immigration rules. This system leaves green card holders in a vulnerable position as national security concerns can take precedence over their residency rights.