A permanent resident is not required to become a citizen and may reside in the United States indefinitely as a permanent resident. Although a permanent resident is permitted to reside in the U.S. without ever becoming a citizen, a permanent resident may want to obtain citizenship as it is beneficial. A citizen can vote in national and local elections, but a permanent resident cannot vote in U.S. elections. As a U.S. citizen, one can exit and enter the U.S. without any regard to time spent out of the U.S. as opposed to a permanent resident who must be careful not to abandon his status by leaving the U.S. for an extended period of time. Finally, a U.S. citizen can petition for the admission of alien relatives to the U.S. that can not be petitioned by a permanent resident.

For other information about Naturalization, please click the following links:
Description
Requirements
Procedures
Special Classes
Benefits
Information
Attorney's fees
Frequentely Asked Questions about Naturalization
Several Issues Regarding the Disruption of Continuous Residency in Naturalization