As a Green Card holder, you have the privilege of living and working in the United States. But what about traveling? Can you explore outside the U.S. with just your Green Card? The answer is yes, but with some important considerations.
Knowing The Green Card Travel Rights
Your Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) allows you to travel outside the U.S. and return without needing a visa. However, your travel duration and destination can affect your permanent resident status.
Short-Term Travel: For short trips (less than 6 months), traveling with your Green Card is straightforward. You just need your valid Green Card and passport from your home country.
Long-Term Travel: If you plan to be outside the U.S. for more than 6 months but less than a year, it’s still possible to travel with just your Green Card. However, you may face questions about your permanent resident status upon return.
Traveling for Over a Year
For trips longer than a year, you’ll need a re-entry permit. This document, obtained before leaving the U.S., allows you to re-enter without issues. It’s valid for two years and proves that you didn’t abandon your residency.
Applying for a Re-Entry Permit
- File Form I-131: This is the Application for Travel Document.
- Biometrics Appointment: You may need to attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting.
- Processing Time: It can take several months, so plan ahead.
Risks of Prolonged Absence
You will be surprised to know that staying outside the U.S. for too long can lead to the presumption that you’ve abandoned your permanent resident status. This can lead to difficulties re-entering the U.S. or even losing your Green Card.
So make sure to know all the rules and guidelines of your own country.
Maintaining Your Permanent Resident Status
To maintain your status, you should:
- Not be absent from the U.S. for more than a year without a re-entry permit.
- File U.S. taxes as a resident.
- Keep ties in the U.S., like a home, job, or family.
As a Green Card holder, you have the freedom to travel internationally. Just be mindful of the length of your trips and maintain ties to the U.S. to protect your permanent resident status. Safe travels.
