Visa Types

Stay Abroad Without Losing Your U.S. Green Card: The Re-entry Permit Visa

As a Green Card holder, you’ve worked hard to establish your residency in the U.S., but what happens if you need to live or work abroad for an extended period? If you’re planning to stay outside the United States for longer than a year, you risk losing your permanent resident status. Fortunately, the Re-entry Permit Visa provides a solution for individuals who want to maintain their U.S. residency while fulfilling obligations abroad.

At Larhdel Law, we simplify the Re-entry Permit application process, ensuring your Green Card status stays secure while you attend to work, family, or personal matters abroad. Contact us at 310 943 6352 to start your application with expert guidance.

Why the Re-entry Permit is Essential for Green Card Holders

As a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), you are entitled to live and work in the U.S. permanently. However, staying outside the U.S. for more than a year without a Re-entry Permit could result in the loss of your residency. A Re-entry Permit allows you to remain outside the U.S. for up to two years without jeopardizing your status, ensuring that you can return and resume your life in the U.S.

Who Needs a Re-entry Permit?

The Re-entry Permit Visa is ideal for Green Card holders who:

• Plan to stay outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years.
• Have work, family, or personal obligations requiring extended stays abroad.
• Want to safeguard their U.S. residency while living temporarily in another country.

How to Apply for the Re-entry Permit Visa

The application process for a Re-entry Permit involves several important steps:

1. Eligibility Review: Ensure you meet the basic criteria, including Green Card status, a planned absence exceeding one year, and intent to return to the U.S.
2. File Form I-131: Complete and submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, providing details about your travel plans and reasons for extended stay abroad.
3. Attend Biometrics Appointment: Provide your fingerprints, photo, and signature as part of the standard security process.
4. Submit Application: Send your completed application to USCIS and wait for processing. Applying well in advance of your travel is crucial.
5. Receive Your Re-entry Permit: Once approved, you will receive a document allowing you to stay abroad for up to two years without losing your residency.

How Larhdel Law Makes the Process Seamless

At Larhdel Law, we provide tailored support to make the Re-entry Permit process as smooth as possible:

• Clear Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your situation to confirm your eligibility and provide personalized guidance.
• Step-by-Step Application Assistance: From filling out Form I-131 to gathering documentation, we guide you every step of the way.
• Document Review: We help compile and review all necessary documents, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Biometrics and Interview Preparation: We prepare you for biometrics and any required interviews, so you’re confident and ready.
• Efficient Processing: We work quickly to ensure your application is processed without delays.

Real-Life Success Stories

• Business Assignment Abroad: A client was assigned a two-year project overseas. We helped secure their Re-entry Permit in time for their departure.
• Family Obligation: A Green Card holder needed to stay abroad for family reasons. With our assistance, they obtained their Re-entry Permit and retained their residency status.
• Medical Emergency: A client faced a prolonged medical stay abroad. Larhdel Law guided them through the process, ensuring their return to the U.S. without complications.

Contact Larhdel Law for Expert Assistance

If you’re planning an extended stay outside the U.S. and want to protect your Green Card status, Larhdel Law is here to help. Contact us at 310 943 6352 to begin your Re-entry Permit application today. Let us ensure your residency remains secure while you pursue opportunities or attend to obligations abroad.