Should I apply for a reentry permit as a Permanent Resident (“Green Card holder”)?

Unfortunately, Lawful Permanent Residents (“Green Card holders”) must follow certain rules when traveling abroad. As a Green Card holder, short trips are allowed. However, if a trip is over SIX (6) months, this creates a “reasonable presumption” that an LPR intended to abandon his/her U.S. residence.LPRs that have taken a trip abroad of over SIX (6) months may have to provide proof to a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer that s/he did not intend to abandon their residence. Additionally, if the trip is more than SIX (6) months in duration, but under ONE (1) year, it is unlikely that a CBP officer will allow a LPR to return to the U.S.

If a LPR has a family emergency or intends to travel abroad for more than ONE (1) year, s/he will need to apply for a reentry permit. A reentry permit allows LPRs to travel abroad for more than ONE (1) year, but less than TWO (2) years. A reentry permit does not guarantee that you will be readmitted to the U.S. when you return, but it can help you prove that your trip was intended to be temporary.

Warning: We do not recommend that a Green Card holder travel abroad while the reentry permit application is pending with USCIS.

For more information on Should I apply for a reentry permit as a Lawful Permanent Resident (“Green Card holder”) a free consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (281) 777-1236 today.

Common Questions We Can Help You With

• What is a reentry permit for Green Card holders?
• Should I apply for a reentry permit as a permanent resident?
• How long can I stay outside the U.S. without a reentry permit?
• What happens if I don’t apply for a reentry permit?
• How do I apply for a reentry permit (Form I‑131)?
• How long is a reentry permit valid?
• Can I renew or extend a reentry permit?
• Does a reentry permit protect my Green Card status?
• What is the difference between a reentry permit and a returning resident visa (SB‑1)?
• How much does it cost to apply for a reentry permit?
• How long does it take to get a reentry permit approved?
• Can I travel while my reentry permit application is pending?
• Do I need to be in the U.S. to apply for a reentry permit?
• What documents are required for a reentry permit application?
• Can a reentry permit be denied?
• What are common mistakes when applying for a reentry permit?
• Does a reentry permit guarantee entry back into the U.S.?
• Can I use a reentry permit for employment abroad?
• How does a reentry permit affect naturalization eligibility?
• Do I need an attorney to apply for a reentry permit?