This guide provides best tips for green card holders or permanent residents returning to the US after traveling abroad. These tips can help for a smooth US entry and avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your permanent resident status.
Check the Duration of your Trip
Trips of 180 days or more may cause you to be questioned at the border about your US residency, so avoid such long trips, if possible. By taking trips less than 180 days, you can also avoid triggering certain immigration implications that may affect future immigration benefits and US citizenship. Tip: apply for a Reentry Permit with the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) if you may be out of the US for close to, or up to one year, to avoid being denied entry at the border.
The Country or Region you Visit Matters
The country or region you visit matters. If you travel to a country with strained or unfriendly relations with the US government, this may cause you to be questioned closely at the border. In addition, trips to certain regions or countries by former refugees and asylees can invite additional scrutiny.
Your Background is Important
Your immigration and criminal background are of interest to the Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers at the border. If you have arrests or criminal convictions, a trip abroad can trigger negative immigration consequences. Tip: Speak to an immigration attorney before your trip to determine whether it is safe to travel.
Immigration Violations Can Affect You
If you have immigration violations, before or after obtaining your green card, you should also seek legal advice before travel. This includes lying in your visa or green card application as the Department of Homeland Security may consider this to be misrepresentation.
Frequent Travel Abroad
Green card holders who travel outside the US frequently may also face problems re-entering the US. When you travel, keep track of your travel history and have proof of your intent to reside here permanently. You don’t want the CBP officer to wonder if you live and work in the US.
Travel Bans
If you are a native of a country that becomes subject to a travel ban while you are abroad, you may have difficulty reentering the US. Keep in mind that some airlines may stop you from boarding your flight if your country is subject to a US travel ban. Tip: Plan alternative travel routes and contingency options in case of a travel ban while you are abroad.
Consult with an Immigration Attorney Before You Travel
Consult with an immigration attorney before you travel. Many immigration lawyers keep informed of the latest immigration trends that can affect you. This way you have a trusted advisor who can look at your history and advise you on the precautions you can take, the documents you may need, and even emergency steps should things go wrong. Your attorney can also advise you on whether you should postpone or abandon your trip altogether.
With careful planning you can minimize or avoid denied entry, detention or even deportation when you return to the US after international travel.
Thank you for reading this article. If you have any questions, our immigration law office is here to help you reach your best immigration solution.
To learn more about this or to schedule an appointment with our immigration lawyer, Doreen Emenike, please go to: https://doreenemenike.setmore.com/ ; visit us www.emenikelaw.com. (626) 256-8500.
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