Traveling internationally as a Green Card holder can be exciting, but it’s crucial to understand the rules and regulations. This guide answers the key question: “Can You Travel To Other Countries With A Green Card?” and provides essential information for permanent residents planning international trips.
Traveling Abroad as a Green Card Holder
Generally, when traveling to a foreign country, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship. In some cases, a refugee travel document might be sufficient. Additionally, the foreign country you plan to visit may have specific entry/exit requirements, such as a visa. Always check the Department of State’s website for the most up-to-date information on foreign entry and exit requirements.
U.S. Passport
Re-entering the United States with a Green Card
When returning to the United States after a temporary trip abroad, you must present a valid, unexpired Green Card (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card). A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry will review your Green Card and any other identity documents you present, such as your passport or driver’s license, to determine your admissibility. For detailed information about entering the United States, refer to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage.
Green Card
Maintaining Your Permanent Resident Status While Traveling
While Green Card holders can travel outside the United States, extended or frequent trips can potentially impact your permanent resident status. Brief trips are usually not a problem. However, U.S. authorities may determine that you have abandoned your permanent resident status if you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home.
A general guideline is whether you have been absent from the U.S. for more than one year. Abandonment can be determined even for trips less than a year if there is evidence you did not intend to maintain the U.S. as your permanent residence.
When assessing your intent, officers may consider factors such as:
- Whether your intention was to visit abroad temporarily.
- Whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties.
- Whether you maintained U.S. employment.
- Whether you filed U.S. income taxes as a resident.
- Whether you otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home.
Other relevant factors include maintaining a U.S. mailing address, U.S. bank accounts, a valid U.S. driver’s license, owning property or running a business in the U.S., or other evidence supporting the temporary nature of your absence.
What to Do If Your Trip Will Exceed One Year
If you anticipate being outside the U.S. for longer than one year, it’s highly recommended to apply for a reentry permit using Form I-131 before you leave. A reentry permit allows a permanent resident to apply for admission to the U.S. during the permit’s validity without needing a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.
While a reentry permit doesn’t guarantee entry, as you must still be deemed admissible, it helps establish your intention to permanently reside in the United States. More information is available on the Travel Documents page.
Form I-131
Staying Outside the U.S. for More Than Two Years
If you remain outside the U.S. for more than two years, any reentry permit issued before your departure will have expired. In this situation, consider applying for a returning resident visa (SB-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. As an SB-1 applicant, you must demonstrate eligibility for an immigrant visa and undergo a medical examination. An exception exists for spouses and children of U.S. Armed Forces members or civilian employees of the U.S. government stationed abroad on official orders. See the Department of State’s webpage on returning resident visas for further details.
Impact on Naturalization
Remember that absences of six months or more can disrupt the continuous residency required for naturalization. If your absence is one year or longer and you want to preserve your continuous residency for naturalization purposes, you can file Form N-470, Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes. See the Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements page for more information.
Lost or Stolen Green Card While Abroad
If your Green Card or reentry permit is lost, stolen, or destroyed while you are outside the U.S., you may need to file Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation). This document allows an airline or other transportation carrier to board you, as a lawful permanent resident, for travel back to the U.S. without penalty to the carrier. For more details, visit the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page.
Key Takeaways for Green Card Travel
Traveling internationally with a Green Card is possible, but careful planning and awareness of the regulations are crucial. Understand the potential impact of extended trips on your permanent resident status and take appropriate steps to protect it. By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy your international travels with peace of mind. Always consult official government resources for the most current information.
