1. What is a reentry permit for green card holders?

A reentry permit for green card holders is a document issued by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allowing the holder to travel abroad for up to two years, and then return to the United States without applying for a returning permanent resident visa. This document serves as a substitute for a green card while the holder is abroad.

2. Do I qualify for a reentry permit?

If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States and wish to travel outside the US for more than one year, then you may qualify for a Reentry Permit. The requirements for a Reentry Permit depend on the country you are traveling to and may vary from country to country. It is important to check with the consulate or embassy of the country you are planning to visit before applying for a Reentry Permit.

3. How do I apply for a reentry permit?

To apply for a reentry permit, you must submit Form I-131, Application for a Reentry Permit, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must also provide a copy of your valid passport, two passport-style photographs, and the applicable fee. Additional documents may be required depending on the circumstances of your case.

4. How long does it take to process a reentry permit application?

It generally takes 4-6 months to process a reentry permit application.

5. What documents do I need to submit in order to apply for a reentry permit?

You need to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with a copy of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, a copy of your valid passport, passport photos, proof of your relationship status (if applicable), proof of your current address, and the required filing fees.

6. What happens if my reentry permit application is denied?

If your reentry permit application is denied, you may have the right to appeal the decision. If an appeal is unsuccessful, you will not be able to use the reentry permit and you may be subject to removal proceedings.

7. Is there a fee associated with submitting a reentry permit application?

Yes, there is a fee associated with submitting a reentry permit application. Currently the fee is $575.

8. How long is a reentry permit valid for?

A reentry permit is valid for two years from its date of issuance.

9. What happens if my reentry permit expires while I am abroad?

If your reentry permit expires while you are abroad, you will need to apply for a new one before returning to the U.S. Your application will need to include proof of your current immigration status, and you may be required to provide additional documents to prove that you have not abandoned your U.S. residency.

10. Can I renew my reentry permit if it has expired while I am abroad?

Yes, you may be able to renew your reentry permit. However, you will need to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to determine the specific requirements and procedures for renewing an expired reentry permit while abroad.

11. Can I travel outside of the U.S. if I do not have a reentry permit?

No. If you are a permanent resident and you plan to be outside the United States for more than six months, you must have a reentry permit to be able to reenter the United States. If you are outside the United States for more than one year, you may need a returning resident visa to reenter the United States.

12. How can I prove that I have a valid reentry permit?

The best way to prove that you have a valid reentry permit is to present it to the CBP officer when entering the US. The reentry permit should be valid and unexpired. If it is not available, other evidence such as copies of past reentry permit applications, proof of your permanent resident status, and proof of travel abroad may be used as evidence of your eligibility for a reentry permit.

13. Do I need to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate when applying for a reentry permit?

Yes, you must notify the U.S. embassy or consulate when you apply for a reentry permit. This is to ensure that you are aware of the legal process and that you understand the requirements for obtaining the permit.

14. How often can I renew my reentry permit?

Generally, you may renew your reentry permit as early as 6 months before it expires. However, you may need to wait until your current permit has expired before you can apply for a new one.

15. Can I apply for a reentry permit while I am outside the U.S.?

No, you cannot apply for a reentry permit while you are outside the United States. You must apply for a reentry permit before leaving the United States.

16. Is there an age limit for applying for a reentry permit?

Yes, there is an age limit for applying for a reentry permit. The applicant must be at least 18 years old in order to apply.

17. Can my family members travel with me on my reentry permit?

No, family members cannot travel on the same reentry permit as the permit holder. They must obtain their own travel documentation.

18. Are there any exceptions to the requirement to have a valid reentry permit before traveling outside the U.S.?

Yes, there are some exceptions to the requirement of having a valid reentry permit before traveling outside the U.S. Such exceptions include:

• If you are a U.S. citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence and traveling by land to an adjacent country;
• If you are a lawful permanent resident reentering the U.S. after a trip of less than one year to contiguous territory or adjacent islands;
• If you are traveling abroad as part of the U.S. Armed Forces;
• If you are a permanent resident alien who is a national of Cuba and is returning from a visit of less than one year to Cuba;
• If you are a nonimmigrant alien who has an unexpired visa and traveling abroad for less than one year; and
• If you are a refugee or asylee who is returning from abroad after being granted permission by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

19. Can I work outside the U.S. with a valid reentry permit?

Yes, you can work outside the U.S. with a valid reentry permit. However, it is important to keep in mind that if you plan to travel and work abroad for an extended period of time, you may not be able to return to the U.S. with your reentry permit. It is best to seek advice from an immigration lawyer or consultant before making any decisions regarding travel and work abroad with a reentry permit.

20. Am I allowed to stay in the U.S. after my reentry permit has expired?

No, you are not allowed to stay in the United States after your reentry permit has expired. You must leave the country before the expiration date of your permit, or you may be subject to removal proceedings.