Reentry Permit for Green Card Holders

Green Card Holders traveling abroad are subject to different regulations than U.S. citizens. The time spent abroad determines the Green Card holder's intention to keep the permanent resident status. Depending on the length of the trip, a reentry permit is required.

Green Card holders may stay abroad for longer periods of time if a Reentry Permit or Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes is approved. The reentry application process may take some time to be processed, and it is recommended to apply early. U.S. law does not require travelers to have the Reentry Permit in your possession when they leave the United States. However, travelers must apply before they leave the United States. The problem with applying in advance and leaving the country before the Reentry Permit is approved is that the application may be denied. This will lead to additional problems upon return to the United States.

Important Notice for Green Card holders planning on applying for U.S. citizenship: Green Card holders must fulfill a residency requirement before they can apply for United States citizenship, and the time spent abroad does not count towards this requirement. However, Green Card holders may submit the "Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes". For more information about traveling with a Green Card and how to apply for a Reentry Permit, it is recommended to download the "Reentry Permit for Green Card Holders Application Guide".

 

CLICK HERE to download the Green Card Reentry Permit Application. Instructions and Application Forms Included.

The Reentry Permit Application Guide:

• Reentry Permit overview
• Traveling with a conditional Green Card
• Traveling with a permanent Green Card
• How to apply for a Reentry Permit
• How to apply for a Reentry Permit Visa from abroad
• Filing instructions
• Detailed information on filing fees
• Explanation of the difference between 6 / 12 / 24 months stay abroad
• Frequently asked questions
• List of all USCIS (formerly INS) offices nationwide
• List of United States embassies and consulates
• FREE Reentry Permit Application Forms