Green Card Issues with Traveling Abroad

If you are a green card holder who is currently traveling outside of the United States, then you need to take the proper precautions so that you are not accused of abandoning the intention of living in the United States by the Immigration and Naturalization Service.  Taking the proper precautions with green card travel will ensure that you do not fall into any of pitfalls that many people often overlook.

Green Card Travel Concerns

When you are granted a green card, you need to be very careful and carry documentation with you at all times. If you are traveling for pleasure, or if you have a job that requires you to temporarily work outside of the United States, then you will need to take the following precautions in order to maintain your green card status.

1. Get a reentry permit:  If you are planning on leaving the United States for more than a year but less than two years, you should definitely get a reentry permit before you leave the United States.
2. Keep a United States Address:  You need to have your mail going to a physical location within the United States.  It is a sure shot when it comes to verification.
3. Keep your United States Bank Accounts:  If your employer sent you outside of the United States for work or if you are traveling for an extended period of time, then you should still have your employer directly deposit your pay check into your U.S. bank account.
4. If you are working outside of the United States you need to have a written record in the form of a contract or letter stating the reason why you were sent outside of the United States for work and when the company plans to send you back to the United States.
5. Keep your United States driver’s license:  This is crucial because it verifies your address and that you are licensed to drive in the United States.  This can be helpful should you ever have to show intent to return to the United States to the INS.
6. Keep your social security card:  Carry your United States Social security card around with you at all times.
7. Keep your green card current:  Never let your green card slip into expiration.

Hopefully, the above-mentioned tips will prove helpful to you on deciding how to maintain your green card while traveling outside of the United States.  The key to maintaining your green card is to always show that your sole intent is to be a United States citizen and that you would never abandon that privilege.

Getting Help

If you are concerned about the impact of traveling while you are a green card holder- especially if you plan to make an extended trip or work outside the US, it is imperative you get the advice of an experienced US immigration attorney. Your attorney can help you take the steps necessary to ensure you maintain your citizenship in the US, even when away.