1. What is a reentry permit?

A reentry permit is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) which allows a permanent resident (green card holder) to travel outside of the United States for an extended period of time without abandoning their permanent resident status. It functions as a travel document, similar to a passport.

2. Who is eligible for a reentry permit?
Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who plan to travel outside of the United States for more than one year but less than two years are eligible to apply for a reentry permit. This includes green card holders who need to temporarily live or work abroad, as well as those who are studying or conducting research overseas.

3. What is the application process for a reentry permit?
The applicant must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with USCIS and pay the appropriate filing fee. The form can be filed online or through mail. Supporting documentation, such as proof of residency, may also be required.

4. How long does it take to get a reentry permit?
The processing time for a reentry permit can vary depending on USCIS workload and other factors. Currently, USCIS estimates a processing time of 3-5 months.

5. Can I expedite my reentry permit application?
Expedited processing may be available in certain circumstances, such as if the applicant has an urgent need to travel due to employment, educational reasons, or medical necessity. There is an additional fee for expedited processing.

6. What happens if I don’t file for a reentry permit before leaving the US?
If you leave the US without obtaining a reentry permit, you risk being deemed to have abandoned your permanent resident status and may not be allowed back into the country upon your return.

7. Can I use my reentry permit in place of my passport?
No, a reentry permit is not valid for international travel. You will still need to present a valid passport from your home country to enter other countries.

8. How long is a reentry permit valid?
A reentry permit is generally valid for up to two years from the date of issue, or until the expiration date on the applicant’s green card, whichever comes first.

9. Can I renew my reentry permit?
Yes, you can apply to renew your reentry permit before it expires if you are still outside of the United States and have not abandoned your permanent resident status.

10. What happens if my reentry permit expires while I am outside of the US?
If your reentry permit expires while you are outside of the US, you will lose your permanent resident status and may be denied entry upon your return. However, you may be able to apply for a returning resident visa at a US Embassy or Consulate in certain circumstances.

2. Why do I need a reentry permit?

A reentry permit is necessary for individuals who are permanent residents of the United States (green card holders) and plan to travel outside of the country for a period of more than one year. It serves as proof that you do not intend to abandon your status as a permanent resident while you are abroad and allows you to reenter the United States without having to obtain a new immigrant visa. Without a reentry permit, there is a risk that you may be denied entry upon your return or have your green card revoked.

3. How do I apply for a reentry permit with USCIS?

To apply for a reentry permit with USCIS, follow these steps:

1. Gather required documents: Before starting the application process, make sure you have all the necessary documents, including a copy of your permanent resident card (Green Card), two passport-style photos, and any relevant travel documents.

2. Complete Form I-131: The application for a reentry permit is filed using Form I-131, available on the USCIS website. Fill out the form completely and accurately.

3. Pay the filing fee: As of 2021, the filing fee for a reentry permit is $660. You can pay by check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” Be sure to include your payment along with your application.

4. File your application: Once you have completed Form I-131 and have included all necessary documents and fees, you can file your application with USCIS. You can file online through your USCIS account or by mail to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox facility.

5. Biometrics appointment: After submitting your application, you will receive a notice from USCIS to schedule an appointment at an Application Support Center to provide biometric information (fingerprints, photograph).

6. Attend interview (if required): If requested by USCIS, you may also need to attend an interview at a designated USCIS office.

7. Receive decision: After completing all necessary steps in the application process, you will receive a decision from USCIS regarding your reentry permit application within several months.

For more detailed information on how to apply for a reentry permit with USCIS, refer to the instructions on Form I-131 or visit the USCIS website.

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

The processing time for a reentry permit can vary, but it typically takes around 2-3 months from the date of application. It is recommended to apply for a reentry permit at least 3 months before your intended travel date.

5. Can I travel without a reentry permit if I have a valid green card?

No, as a green card holder, it is important to have a reentry permit if you plan to travel outside of the United States for longer than 1 year. Without a valid reentry permit, it is possible that your green card could be considered abandoned and you may be denied entry back into the US.

6. What documents do I need to include in my reentry permit application?

To apply for a reentry permit, you will need to include the following documents:

1. Form I-131, Application for Travel Document
2. Two passport-style photos
3. Copy of your passport biographic page
4. Evidence of your status in the United States (e.g. Green Card, visa, etc.)
5. Copy of any previous reentry permits or travel documents
6. Biometric services fee (if required)

7. Filing fee (check or money order made payable to “U.S Department of Homeland Security”)
8. Supporting documents showing the reason for your extended absence from the United States (e.g. employment or education abroad, family separation, medical treatment)
9. Proof of payment of U.S income tax during your time outside the United States (if applicable)

It is important to note that additional documents may be requested by USCIS depending on your individual circumstances, so it is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on specific requirements for your application.

7. Can I apply for a reentry permit while outside of the United States?

No, you cannot apply for a reentry permit while outside of the United States. You must be physically present in the United States to apply for a reentry permit with the appropriate U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office. If you are outside of the United States and need to obtain a reentry permit, you must first return to the United States before applying.

8. Can I apply for a reentry permit if my green card is expired or about to expire?

Yes, you can apply for a reentry permit even if your green card is expired or about to expire. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements for a reentry permit and provide proof that you intend to return to the United States as a permanent resident after your temporary travel abroad. Additionally, if your green card is expired or will expire within 6 months of your planned departure, you must also file an application to renew your green card before departing the US.

9. How much does it cost to apply for a reentry permit?

As of 2021, the application fee for a reentry permit is $660. Additional fees may apply for biometric services and photographs. Please check with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for the most up-to-date fees.

10. Can my family members also apply for a reentry permit under my application?

No, family members must file their own individual application for a reentry permit. Each person will be evaluated separately and must meet the eligibility requirements on their own merit. Family members cannot be included in another person’s reentry permit application.

11. Do I need to submit biometrics when applying for a reentry permit?

Yes, all reentry permit applicants aged 14 to 79 are required to submit biometrics, including fingerprints and photographs, as part of the application process. This is done at a designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC). Children under 14 and adults over 79 do not need to submit biometrics but may be asked to do so if deemed necessary by USCIS.

12. Can I use my reentry permit to enter the United States after multiple trips abroad?

Yes, as long as your reentry permit is still valid and you have not exceeded the maximum allowed time outside of the United States (2 years for a green card holder or 1 year for a conditional resident). You must also continue to maintain your permanent residence in the United States and not engage in any activities that would jeopardize your status.

13. Is there a limit on how many times I can use my reentry permit to enter the United States during its validity period?

No, there is no limit on the number of times you can use your reentry permit to enter the United States during its validity period, as long as it remains valid and you continue to meet the requirements for entry into the U.S.

14. What happens if my green card expires while I am outside of the United States with a valid reentry permit?

If your green card has expired while you are outside of the United States, you will need to apply for a new one upon your return. Your reentry permit will allow you to enter the United States and present evidence that you have maintained your permanent resident status while abroad. You should apply for a new green card as soon as possible after returning to the United States.

15. How do I check the status of my reentry permit application with USCIS?

You can check the status of your reentry permit application with USCIS by creating an account on their website and logging in to the “Case Status Online” page. You will need your receipt number, which can be found on your receipt notice. Alternatively, you can call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and speak with a customer service representative for an update on your case status.

16. What does it mean if my case status shows as “in process” on the USCIS website?

If your case status shows as “in process” on the USCIS website, it means that your application or petition has been received and is being reviewed by USCIS. This status indicates that your application has not yet been approved or denied, and is still undergoing processing. It is important to check back regularly for updates on your case status.

17. My case status shows as “pending”- what should I do now?

If your case status is showing as “pending” it means that your application is still being processed and a decision has not been made yet. This could mean that the immigration officer is still reviewing your documents, conducting background checks or waiting for additional information. At this point, all you can do is wait for a decision to be made.

If your case has been pending for an unusually long time, you may reach out to the USCIS Contact Center for assistance. You can also check if there are any updates or requests for more information on your online account with USCIS.

It’s important to note that there is no specific timeline for when a decision will be made on an immigration case. Each case varies in complexity and processing times can also vary depending on the location and current workload of the USCIS office handling your case. Be patient and continue monitoring your case status regularly.

If you are concerned about the delay in processing your application, you may also consider consulting with an immigration lawyer for more personalized guidance and assistance.

18.. What should I do if my case status shows as “denied”?

If your case status shows as “denied,” it means that the application or petition you filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been denied. This can be a disheartening experience, but there are still options available to address the denial.

1. Understand the reason for the denial: The first step is to understand why your case was denied. USCIS should have provided a written explanation for their decision, called a Notice of Action (NOA). This NOA will contain information on why your case was denied and any potential options you may have to appeal or reapply.

2. Appeal the decision: If you believe that USCIS made an error in denying your case, you may be able to file an appeal or a motion to reopen or reconsider. Form I-290B must be filed within the designated time frame based on the type of application/petition that was denied.

3. Reapply with additional evidence: If there were missing documents or evidence in your original application, you may choose to reapply with all required information and documentation included. However, if the reason for denial is not due to lack of evidence, then this may not be the best option.

4. Seek legal advice: Immigration laws are complex and constantly changing. Seeking guidance from an experienced immigration attorney can help you understand your options and determine the best course of action after a denial.

5. Request for humanitarian parole: If your case was denied for reasons such as unlawful presence or immigration violations, you may consider requesting humanitarian parole while addressing your immigration status.

6. Explore other immigration options: If all else fails, you may consider alternative forms of legal immigration such as family-based sponsorship, employment-based sponsorship, or asylum/refugee status.

It’s important to remember that each case is unique and requires individualized attention. As such, it’s always recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for personalized guidance on how to proceed after a denial.

19.. What are some common reasons that an application for a reentry permit may be denied?

1. Failure to meet residency requirements: Applicants for a reentry permit must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year prior to applying. If an applicant has not met this requirement, their application may be denied.

2. Incomplete or incorrect application: Any errors or omissions on the application form can lead to a denial of the reentry permit.

3. Insufficient supporting documentation: The USCIS requires applicants to provide certain documents, such as proof of U.S. residence and a valid reason for needing a reentry permit. If these documents are incomplete or insufficient, the application may be denied.

4. Criminal history: USCIS conducts background checks on all reentry permit applicants and any criminal convictions may lead to a denial of the application.

5. Abandonment of permanent resident status: A reentry permit is only available to permanent residents who intend to maintain their permanent resident status in the U.S. If there is evidence that an applicant has abandoned their residency and intends to live permanently outside of the U.S., their application may be denied.

6. Previous immigration violations: Applicants with previous immigration violations, such as overstaying a visa or entering the country illegally, may have their reentry permit application denied.

7. Failure to submit biometrics: All applicants must appear for biometric services (fingerprinting and photo) at an Application Support Center (ASC). If an applicant fails to complete this step, their application will be denied.

8. Lack of valid travel document: A reentry permit is only issued if an applicant has a valid passport or other travel document with an expiration date at least six months beyond the expiry date of the reentry permit being requested.

9. Failure to pay filing fees: Failure to pay the required filing fees will result in a denial of the reentry permit application.

10. Unverifiable information: USCIS may deny an application if they are unable to verify the information provided on the application, such as employment history or residence in the U.S.

20.. Is it possible to expedite the processing of my application if there is an urgent need for me to travel outside of the United States?

It is possible to expedite the processing of your application if you have an urgent need to travel outside of the United States. However, this decision is typically made on a case-by-case basis and there is no guarantee that your application will be expedited. You may need to provide documentation or proof of the urgency for your travel, such as an emergency situation or employment obligations. It is best to contact the appropriate government agency handling your application for more information on their specific policies and procedures for expediting applications.