Do I Need to Stay in the U.S. to Maintain My Green Card?
Learn about staying in the U.S. and maintaining your green card status to avoid losing your lawful permanent resident status.
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Yes, to maintain your green card (lawful permanent resident status), you generally need to reside in the U.S. Absences of more than 6 months may result in questioning at re-entry about whether you have abandoned your residence. Absences of more than a year require a re-entry permit or may lead to loss of green card status. It's crucial to establish the U.S. as your permanent home and be mindful of extended trips abroad.
FAQs & Answers
- What happens if I stay outside the U.S. for more than 6 months with a green card? If you stay outside the U.S. for more than 6 months, you'll be questioned upon re-entry about whether you've abandoned your lawful permanent resident status.
- Do I need a re-entry permit if I leave the U.S. for more than a year? Yes, if you plan to be outside the U.S. for more than a year, you will need a re-entry permit to maintain your green card status.
- Can I lose my green card if I travel abroad for an extended period? Yes, extended absences from the U.S. can lead to the loss of your green card, particularly if they exceed one year without proper documentation.
- How can I prove that the U.S. is my permanent home? To prove the U.S. is your permanent home, maintain ties such as a U.S. address, bank accounts, jobs, and family connections, and avoid long absences.