Why Green Card Holders Must Get US Citizenship Ahead Of US Presidential Elections 2024?Here's What Experts Say

As the date for the US presidential election is near, Green Card holders are being urged to secure their citizenship and register to vote.

Shekar Narasimhan, Chairman and founder of the Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Victory Fund, emphasized that under President Joe Biden's administration, eligible Green Card holders could obtain US citizenship in just three weeks.

Why Green Card Holders Should Get US Citizenship ASAP?

Notably, the US will vote on November 5 to decide its next President. According to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) data, more than a million Indians are stuck in a long queue for Green Cards. Many highly skilled professionals from India, including doctors, engineers, and scientists, face wait times that could extend for decades to gain permanent residency in the US.

"Being excited and translating that into votes are often two rather distinct things. It's how you take that energy, persuade people that it's worth their while, and make sure that they apply for citizenship, which can be obtained in three weeks," Narasimhan said, as quoted by PTI.

A Green Card, officially called a permanent resident card, signifies an individual's status as a permanent resident in the United States. "If you have a Green Card and have been here for five years, get your citizenship. There's time. Register to vote," Narasimhan urged.

Narasimhan emphasized the importance of early registration and meeting deadlines in various states. He also suggested creating WhatsApp groups to remind friends about voting. "In many states, you have to register in advance, and there are deadlines. And finally, create a WhatsApp group, get 20 of your friends on there, remind each other every day why it's important, and get out to vote," he advised.

The AAPI Victory Fund is one of the first SuperPACs focused on strengthening the political influence of the Asian American Pacific Islander community. Narasimhan noted that Vice President Kamala Harris's presidential run has generated significant excitement among Indian-Americans, Asian-Americans, and other groups. To be eligible for citizenship, Green Card holders need to have lived in the US for at least five years, as reported by India Today.

"So, if you haven't already, get your citizenship. Register to vote. Vote, and encourage others to vote too," he urged, noting that all this can be done in 100 days.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, there were 12.9 million Green Card holders living in the US in 2022, with 9.2 million meeting the naturalization age and residency requirements. This presents a significant opportunity for these residents to participate in the upcoming election and have their voices heard, as per media reports.

With the approaching election, the call for Green Card holders to secure their citizenship and register to vote has never been more critical. As Narasimhan and the AAPI Victory Fund emphasize, the power of the vote is a crucial element in shaping the future of the nation, and eligible Green Card holders have the opportunity to make a significant impact.