Do You Lose Your Green Card If You Live Outside the US?
Learn about the risks of losing your green card if you stay outside the US for too long or abandon your residency.
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Yes, you may lose your green card if you live outside the US. If you stay outside the country for more than a year, or if it appears you have abandoned your residency, your green card can be revoked. To avoid this, apply for a re-entry permit before leaving or take steps to demonstrate your intent to return and maintain US residency.
FAQs & Answers
- What happens to my green card if I stay outside the US for more than a year? Staying outside the US for more than a year can lead to the loss of your green card unless you have a re-entry permit.
- How can I prove my intent to return to the US? You can prove your intent to return by maintaining ties to the US, such as keeping a residence, a bank account, and family connections.
- What is a re-entry permit? A re-entry permit allows you to stay outside the US for up to two years without losing your green card, provided you apply before leaving.
- Can I apply for a re-entry permit after leaving the US? No, you must apply for a re-entry permit while you are still in the US before departing.