What is a Green Card?
A Permanent Resident Card is commonly known as a “Green Card”. A person who has a one is called a Lawful Permanent Resident. A Green Card allows you to live, work and travel in the U.S. and to and from your home Country.
Your Permanent Resident Card is always somewhat conditional because you can lose it if you are convicted of certain crimes or travel out of Country for too long. A Green Card by Marriage is conditional for the first two years, then can become somewhat permanent thereafter.
Your Permanent Resident Card can also lead to getting your United States Citizenship. After you have a Green Card through marriage to a United States Citizen for three years, you may apply for your citizenship.
Your Permanent Resident card is basically proof of your status here in the U.S. to live, work and travel. People often ask about what happens when the date on your Card expires?
Expired Green Card
Your status does not necessarily expire just because the date on the card has expired. However, you should attempt to maintain your status by applying to renew your Green Card if the date is expiring. One reason is because if the date on your card has expired, some airlines may not allow you to travel back to the United States. And you can have problems because many police and other authorities may not understand this concept.
Outside U.S. With Expired Green Card
If you find yourself outside the United States with an expired Green Card, you may apply with a U.S. Consulate for a Transportation Letter. This letter will allow you to board an airline with an expired Green Card. You will need documentation that you are still a resident. You should consult your immigration lawyer for additional information.
Abandoning Your Green Card
Once you are a lawful permanent resident, you will need to avoid long trips outside the U.S. Try to keep these trips to four months or less.
A good idea is to always come back to the U.S. every six months. If you know you are leaving the U.S. for a long time, you can apply for a reentry permit BEFORE going on a trip lasting longer than six months. This will help to ensure that you maintain your lawful permanent resident status.
When you stay away from the U.S. on long trips, you should be sure to bring documentation with you that shows you are a U.S. resident. This includes bank statements, car payments, rent payment and so on. Again, this is something you should discuss with your immigration lawyer before you leave.
When you attempt to return to the U.S. after a long trip of over six months, the Customs and Board Patrol may attempt to say you have abandoned your lawful permanent status. Having the proper documentation can make the difference between being turned away, deported, or allowed into the U.S.
If you have remained outside the United States for over a year, you may need to apply for a Returning Resident Visa at the U.S. Consulate. Because maintaining your Green Card or Permanent Resident Status is important, you should discuss this with your immigration attorney for advice if you plan long trips or have remained outside the U. S. for over 12 months. It is possible that the Customs Officer may attempt to accuse you of abandoning your Permanent Resident status.
Finally, when you travel outside the U.S. for long periods, you may later be denied your U.S. Citizenship. Often, some issues don’t arise until you apply for your Citizenship.
Your Permanent Resident card is proof of your status in the U.S. to live, work and travel. If you have a Green Card by marriage to a U. S. Citizen, be sure to be mindful of maintaining your status until you get your Citizenship. Discuss with your immigration lawyer any long trips outside the U.S.
Our practice offers a range of immigration services, including helping clients get a green card.
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice.
