If you are a [green card holder](/immigration-resources/green-card-immigration-guide) planning to travel outside the United States for an extended period, it's crucial to understand the role of a re-entry permit. This article aims to provide detailed information about the re-entry permit, who needs it, how to obtain it, and how to use it. While the primary audience is green card holders, this information may also be useful for immigration lawyers, travel consultants, and anyone interested in U.S. immigration policies.

A re-entry permit is a travel document that serves a similar purpose to a U.S. passport. It is issued to green card holders who wish to maintain their [U.S. residence](https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/after-we-grant-your-green-card/maintaining-permanent-residence^) during a long trip abroad. This permit is necessary because if a green card holder travels abroad for more than a year, they are assumed to have given up their U.S. residence. This assumption could lead to the revocation of their green card. The re-entry permit communicates to the U.S. government that the holder intends to return and continue living in the U.S. after their trip.

As a green card holder, you might be wondering if you need a re-entry permit. The answer depends on the duration of your planned trip outside the U.S. If you plan to travel abroad for more than a year but less than two years, you should apply for a re-entry permit. For trips of less than a year, your green card remains valid without a re-entry permit. 

However, if your trip extends beyond two years, or if you did not apply for a re-entry permit before leaving the U.S., you will need to apply for an [SB-1 visa](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html^), also known as a returning resident visa. This application should be made at the nearest [U.S. consulate or embassy](/immigration-resources/b1-b2-visa-interview-guide) before returning to the U.S. 

Remember, the re-entry permit is a safeguard against the assumption that you have given up your U.S. residence due to a lengthy stay abroad. It's a crucial document that helps maintain your green card status during your travels.

Obtaining a re-entry permit involves a few specific steps that you must follow:

Once these steps are completed, you are free to travel abroad. Remember, the re-entry permit is not a substitute for a visa, but it helps maintain your U.S. residence status during your extended trip. It's always advisable to apply for a re-entry permit well in advance of your planned departure to avoid any potential complications.

Once you have your re-entry permit, it's essential to know how to use it correctly. When returning to the U.S. after your trip, you should carry your valid re-entry permit, green card, and passport. 

The re-entry permit plays a crucial role at the U.S. border. It communicates to the [Customs and Border Protection (CBP)](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/advance-parole-reentry-permit-and-refugee-travel-documentation-returning-aliens-residing^) official that your absence from the U.S. should not be considered as evidence of abandoning U.S. residence. In other words, it signals your intention to continue living in the U.S. after your trip.

However, it's important to note that a re-entry permit does not guarantee the right to re-enter the U.S. Entry into the U.S. is always at the discretion of the CBP official. Therefore, it's essential to carry all necessary documents and be prepared to answer any questions the CBP official may have about your trip and your intention to continue residing in the U.S.

It's important to note that a re-entry permit cannot be renewed or extended. If your re-entry permit is due to expire while you are still abroad, you must return to the U.S. and apply for a new one. 

There is no official limit on how many times you can apply for a re-entry permit. However, if you, as a green card holder, have spent more than four of the previous five years outside the U.S., you will only be issued a re-entry permit valid for a single year, with some exceptions. 

This rule underscores the U.S. government's expectation that green card holders will make the U.S. their permanent residence. If you find yourself frequently needing to apply for re-entry permits due to extended travel, it may be worth consulting with an immigration attorney to understand the potential impacts on your green card status.

Yes, it is. As a green card holder, you are considered a U.S. tax resident and are required to file U.S. tax returns, regardless of where you live. This requirement applies even if you are abroad with a re-entry permit. Failing to file U.S. tax returns can lead to complications with your immigration status.

The time you spend outside the U.S. can impact your eligibility for U.S. citizenship. Generally, to qualify for naturalization, you must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the five years immediately preceding your application. Extended absences from the U.S., even with a re-entry permit, can disrupt this continuous residence requirement. If you plan to apply for U.S. citizenship in the future, you should carefully consider the length of your trips abroad.

Is it important to continue filing U.S. tax returns while abroad with a re-entry permit?

How does time spent outside the U.S. impact eligibility for U.S. citizenship?

Navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration policies can be challenging, especially when planning to travel abroad for an extended period. As a green card holder, understanding the role and importance of a re-entry permit is crucial. This permit serves as a safeguard, communicating your intention to maintain your U.S. residence despite a lengthy trip abroad.

Remember, for trips longer than a year but less than two years, apply for a re-entry permit. For trips exceeding two years, or if you didn't apply for a re-entry permit before leaving, you'll need to apply for an SB-1 visa at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy before returning.

While a re-entry permit does not guarantee your right to re-enter the U.S., it plays a significant role in maintaining your green card status. Always carry your valid re-entry permit, green card, and passport when returning to the U.S.

Lastly, even while abroad, continue to file your U.S. tax returns and be mindful of how time spent outside the U.S. impacts your eligibility for U.S. citizenship. 

Safe travels, and remember to plan ahead to protect your U.S. residence status.

Are you a U.S. green card holder planning a long trip abroad? This guide explains the re-entry permit, obtained via Form I-131, which helps maintain your U.S. residence status during your trip. Note, it doesn't guarantee re-entry, which is up to Customs and Border Protection. If your trip exceeds two years or you didn't get a re-entry permit, you may need an SB-1 visa. Time spent abroad can affect your U.S. citizenship eligibility. For specific queries, consult an immigration attorney.

Re-entry Permit: A Guide for U.S. Green Card Holders

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