Having an expired Green Card can create uncertainty, especially when planning international travel. It’s essential to understand the current regulations and how they affect your ability to re-enter the United States. The key question many Green Card holders ask is: Can I Travel If My Green Card Is Expired?
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented some changes to address processing times for certain forms, specifically affecting the validity of Green Cards. Let’s delve into the details.
USCIS is extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) for petitioners who have properly filed Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status) for 48 months beyond the card’s expiration date. This change was initiated on January 11, 2023, for Form I-829 and on January 25, 2023, for Form I-751.
This adjustment was made to accommodate the increased processing times for Form I-751 and Form I-829 over the past year. Due to these delays, the USCIS updated the language on the receipt notices for both Form I-751 and Form I-829 to extend Green Card validity for 48 months for individuals with a newly filed form.
Eligible conditional permanent residents who previously received notices with an extension shorter than 48 months and whose cases are still pending will receive new receipt notices. Presenting this updated receipt notice along with your expired Green Card serves as evidence of your continued status while your case is still being processed by USCIS.
By showing your updated receipt notice with your expired Green Card, you are authorized to work and travel for 48 months from the expiration date printed on the front of your expired Green Card. This is a critical piece of information for anyone concerned about traveling with an expired Green Card.
However, it’s important to remember that conditional permanent residents planning to be outside the United States for a year or more should apply for a reentry permit by filing Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) before leaving the United States.
For more detailed information, the USCIS provides resources on International Travel as a Permanent Resident on their website. This page offers comprehensive guidance on traveling with a Green Card and what to expect when re-entering the United States.
In conclusion, if you have filed Form I-751 or I-829 and received an updated receipt notice, you can travel with your expired Green Card, provided you present the receipt notice as evidence of your continued permanent resident status. Always ensure you understand and comply with USCIS guidelines to avoid any issues during your travel.
