What Is A Reentry Permit?

A Reentry Permit is a travel document that allows a green card holder to reenter the United States. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or conditional permanent residents who plan to travel outside the United States for more than one year, but less than two years, may apply for a Reentry Permit.

Who Needs a Reentry Permit?

A Reentry Permit is a multiple-use travel document, and it can be used several times during its valid period to reenter the United States. Form I-131, Application for Travel Document is the application for a Reentry Permit from within the United States to apply for a permit.

Who Needs a Reentry Permit?

A Reentry Permit is generally used when a lawful permanent resident knows he or she will be present outside the United States for more than a year and does not intend to give up his or her status. Form I-131, Application for Travel Document is the application for a Reentry Permit and must be filed while you are within the United States.

How a Reentry Permit Helps

Without a Reentry Permit, a permanent resident that is outside the country for more than a year will most likely be placed in removal proceedings on the ground that he/she has abandoned his or her permanent resident status. The permit is intended to prevent this problem.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about filing Form I-131:

• There is a USCIS application fee.
• You will need to provide fingerprints and a background check.
• You will need to provide evidence of your lawful permanent resident status.