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Are You A Green Card Holder and Plan To Travel Abroad for the Holidays? MUST READ

Yes, green card holders can travel abroad for the holidays, but it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences of staying outside the United States for an extended period of time.

According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), green card holders who remain outside the United States for more than 180 days (6 months) may be considered to have abandoned their permanent resident status and could face difficulties when returning to the United States.

If You Plan To Travel Abroad For The Holidays

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, green card holders who can demonstrate that they maintain strong ties to the United States, such as through employment, property ownership or family relationships, may be able to argue the presumption of abandonment even if they have been outside the United States for more than 180 days.

To avoid any potential problems, it is best to consult with an immigration attorney before traveling abroad for an extended period of time. An attorney can assess your individual circumstances and advise you on the best course of action to protect your green card status.

In addition to the 180-day rule, there are a few other things that green card holders should keep in mind when traveling abroad:

Obtain a re-entry permit:
If you plan to be outside the United States for more than one year, you should apply for a re-entry permit from USCIS. This permit will allow you to re-enter the United States without having to apply for a new green card.
Keep your green card and passport valid:
Your green card and passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date to the United States.
Maintain ties to the United States:
Keep evidence of your ties to the United States, such as bank statements, utility bills, and tax returns.
Notify USCIS of your address change:
If you change your address while you are outside the United States, you must notify USCIS within 45 days of the change.

By following these tips, green card holders can minimize the risk of losing their permanent resident status when traveling abroad for the holidays.

Don’t Risk Your Green Card Status: Talk To An Immigration Attorney Before You Travel Abroad

If you have questions about your green card status, call an experienced green card lawyer. United States immigration laws are complex and are updated frequently. If you have a question about immigration, contact Mario Godoy and the immigration attorneys at Godoy Law Office in Chicago, Illinois at 630-345-4164.

AREAS WE SERVE: Godoy Law Office has 6 offices in the Chicago, Illinois area and helps clients in all 50 states.

Mario Godoy

Immigration Lawyer and Illinois Crimmigration Attorney

Immigration Attorney Mario Godoy has years of experience guiding clients with immigration issues through the immigration process along with guiding clients through the criminal case. Godoy focuses on family-based immigration law, business immigration law, removal defense, and criminal defense representation of immigrants. A criminal charge or conviction can be devastating to your immigration case. With over a decade of immigration law experience and memories of family members who were deported due to bad legal advice, Godoy is committed to helping other immigrant families receive the legal justice they deserve. As a legal entrepreneur who practices immigration law, criminal law, estate and probate law, and running two successful law firms, Mario Godoy understands the importance of keeping families together and making a home and future in America.

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