Do you have to become a citizen?

[anjinsan 4]

Does one have to apply for citizenship after receiving 10-year GC? Though I am considering it, and I may not want to become a US citizen. If so, can I just "renew" my GC after 10 years and receive a new one valid for another 10 years? Most importantly: is renewing a 10-year GC an easier process than I-751, or will I have to "prove" bona-fide marriage again, etc.? Your experiences and knowledge is much appreciated.

[Reyan 56]

Nope, citizenship is not mandatory and a personal choice.

You just "renew" the GC and don't go AOS/removing condition procedure again so it is easier.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=8ae33a4107083210VgnVCM100000082ca60aRCRD&vgnextchannel=8ae33a4107083210VgnVCM100000082ca60aRCRD

[Sirdaniel42 86]

Nope, citizenship is not mandatory and a personal choice.

You just "renew" the GC and don't go AOS/removing condition procedure again so it is easier.

http://www.uscis.gov...000082ca60aRCRD

[hmh33 117]

Importantly it is only the card (the evidence of your permanent resident status) that expires after 10 years, not your permanent resident status itself. You remain a PR even if you don't renew the card in time. Of course you will have difficulty traveling without it, and possibly working (though a driver's license and an unannotated social security card are valid for I-9), but it's not nearly as big a deal as the I-751 removal of conditions, where you lose the status if you forget to file.