How Long Can Green Card Holders Stay Outside the U.S. Without Losing Their Status?

Discover the rules regarding how long green card holders can remain outside America without jeopardizing their residency status.

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Green card holders can generally stay outside the U.S. for up to 1 year without losing their permanent resident status. Stays longer than 6 months but less than a year may warrant questions about your intent to maintain residency. To stay abroad for over a year, it's advisable to apply for a Reentry Permit.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What happens if a green card holder stays out of the U.S. for more than a year? They may lose their permanent resident status unless they have applied for a Reentry Permit before leaving.
  2. Can green card holders travel frequently outside the U.S.? Yes, but they should be aware of the residency requirements to avoid jeopardizing their status.
  3. What is a Reentry Permit? A Reentry Permit is a document that allows green card holders to stay outside the U.S. for up to two years while maintaining their residency.