A non-U.S. citizen who has been granted permission and given the ability to permanently reside and create a home in the United States. Also known as permanent residence or a green card holder and the terms are synonymous as the person must have a green card. A permanent resident may travel and return as often as desired but must retain U.S. residence on a permanent basis. Staying away from the U.S. for more than a year means risking losing a green card.