What You Need to Know About Staying Outside the U.S. for Over 6 Months

Learn how staying outside the U.S. for over 6 months can impact your residency status and what steps to take.

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Staying outside of the U.S. for more than 6 months can affect your residency status. If you hold a Green Card, prolonged absence might lead to questions about your intent to remain a permanent resident. Non-citizens can apply for a Re-entry Permit to safeguard their status, allowing travel for up to 2 years without jeopardizing their residency.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What happens to my Green Card if I leave the U.S. for a long time? Prolonged absence may result in questions regarding your intent to remain a permanent resident.
  2. What is a Re-entry Permit? A Re-entry Permit allows Green Card holders to travel outside the U.S. for up to 2 years without losing their residency status.
  3. Can I return to the U.S. after being abroad for more than 6 months? You can return, but you may face scrutiny regarding your residency intent; having a Re-entry Permit can help.
  4. How do I apply for a Re-entry Permit? You can apply for a Re-entry Permit through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by submitting Form I-131.