Keeping your US green card while working abroad

US immigration officials can revoke a green card if the holder abandons their intention to live long-term in the United States. This issue has gained special relevance in recent years due to the US economic recession. A growing number of green card holders are leaving the US in search of economic opportunities elsewhere, such as China. Despite leaving the US, green card holders want to keep their hard-earned greedy cards if possible. This article provides tips for immigrants in this dilemma.

1. time requirement. Immigration authorities often question a green card holder’s intent to reside long-term in the US if the holder remains outside the United States for more than six consecutive months (180 days) or within a period of one year. year. Returning a few days before the six-month mark can create similar difficulties, especially if the cardholder takes long trips outside the US for several years in a row. For example, four-month annual trips abroad can create difficulties.

two. How to travel with reduced worries. When you spend significant time outside of the United States, the safest approach is to apply for advance parole, also known as parole. Doing so clearly indicates the intent to retain permanent residence in the US.

Unfortunately, early parole may not be enough. If extended stays outside the US are necessary, the green card holder should be prepared to present additional documentation to immigration border officials upon re-entry into the US. Documentation should evidence links to holder’s long-term relationship with the United States. Examples include:

A. The immigrant’s most recent tax return for the year.

B. Proof that the holder maintained an address in the United States during his absence.

C. Records showing that the holder has a US bank account.

D. US driver’s license or identification card.

E. One or more US credit cards.

F. US Social Security Card

G. Valid green card.

H. Documents showing that the green card holder does not enter the United States on the first leg of a round-trip ticket. Instead, the documentation should suggest that the United States is the holder’s final destination.

3. Important mistakes to avoid. Avoid the following when traveling abroad:

HAS. Do not apply for a nonimmigrant visa. If the green card holder leaves the US for more than one year without advance permission or is denied re-entry, he should not attempt to re-enter the US on a nonimmigrant visa. Instead, apply for a special immigrant visa.

b. spouse and children. The green card holder should avoid bringing their spouse and children when traveling abroad for extended periods.

against travel tickets. Do not use the first leg of a roundtrip ticket to re-enter the United States if the return destination of the ticket is outside the United States.

This list of tips is not exhaustive, but it should help most green card holders work abroad with more peace of mind.