According to the web document, anyone who is a legal permanent resident of the United States, meaning they hold a green card, can leave and re-enter the country as often as they wish, provided they do not spend more than one year abroad.
As long as the travel reasons involve staying outside the U.S. for up to 12 months, migrants with legal residency can travel freely without concerns. Let’s see it in detail.
To exit and re-enter the United States in this manner, it is essential to carry either the green card or a re-entry permit, which allows residents to return after being away for more than one year.
The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has noted that although a passport is not strictly required, it is a good idea to have it with you when embarking on an international journey.
How to Re-enter the United States After Spending Over a Year Abroad as a Foreigner
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), legal permanent residents of the United States who need to travel abroad for more than a year have the option to apply for a re-entry permit from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before leaving the country.
Obtaining a Special Re-entry Permit
If you plan on leaving the United States for more than a year and wish to return, it is crucial to request a special permit from the USCIS. This permit allows U.S. permanent residents to request admission back into the country after being abroad for an extended period.
Duration and Application Process
The re-entry permits are typically valid for two years, during which you can stay abroad. If you exceed this time, you might be denied re-entry into the United States. To apply for a re-entry permit, you must submit a request to USCIS for the I-131 travel document and wait for the agency’s response.
- Submit the I-131 form to USCIS before leaving the U.S.
- Ensure the application is approved to avoid re-entry complications.
- Keep track of the permit’s validity period to plan your return accordingly.
