How Many Green Card Holders Live in the US Currently?

The United States remains one of the most sought-after destinations for immigrants, with millions of people holding permanent resident status, also known as a Green Card. But just how many Green Card holders live in the U.S. today?

Let’s break down the latest numbers, trends, and what it all means for immigration and policy.

Latest Green Card Holder Count (As of 2024–2025)

According to the most recent data from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Census estimates, there are currently:

Approximately 13.2 million Green Card holders living in the United States.

Out of these:

Around 9.2 million are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
The rest are recent permanent residents or not yet eligible.

Top Countries of Origin for Green Card Holders

The majority of U.S. permanent residents come from:

Country	Estimated Share (%)
Mexico	25%+
India	6%+
China	5%+
Philippines	4%+
El Salvador	3%+

Note: These figures change annually based on family-based and employment-based immigration trends.

Types of Green Card Categories

Green Cards are granted through multiple routes:

Family-Based Immigration
Employment-Based Immigration
Refugee/Asylee Adjustments
Diversity Visa Lottery (Green Card Lottery)

Family-sponsored visas still make up the largest share.

How Many New Green Cards Are Issued Each Year?

In FY 2023, over 1 million new Green Cards were issued.
Majority of recipients already lived in the U.S. on other visas before adjustment.

Why Is This Data Important?

Understanding how many Green Card holders are in the U.S. helps:

Shape immigration policies
Track demographic and workforce trends
Inform debates around voting and citizenship rights
Plan public services, education, and housing

Did You Know?

Green Card holders must renew their card every 10 years.
They can live and work permanently in the U.S. but can’t vote in federal elections.
They may be deported for serious criminal offenses or violating immigration terms.

Final Thoughts

With over 13 million Green Card holders, immigrants continue to play a vital role in shaping America’s future — socially, economically, and culturally. Whether through family reunification or skilled employment, the path to U.S. permanent residency remains a key part of the American Dream.