Reentry Permits - Extended Travel for Permanent Residents
Reentry Permit Overview
What is a Reentry Permit?
A reentry permit is a travel document that allows permanent residents to remain outside the United States for extended periods (up to 2 years) without abandoning their permanent resident status or green card.
Why Apply for Reentry Permit?
Essential for permanent residents planning to be outside the U.S. for more than one year, as absence beyond one year creates presumption of abandonment of permanent residence that reentry permits help overcome.
Eligible Applicants
Who Can Apply for Reentry Permits
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
- Conditional permanent residents (through marriage or investment)
- Returning residents with expired or lost green cards (limited circumstances)
- Permanent residents outside U.S. for less than one year seeking longer stays
- Green card holders planning extended travel for employment, education, or family reasons
Validity Periods and Limitations
Reentry Permit Duration
- First-time applicants: Up to 2 years validity
- Subsequent applications: Up to 2 years if total absence less than 4 years in 5-year period
- Multiple previous permits: May be limited to less than 2 years
- Special circumstances: USCIS may grant shorter validity based on individual factors
- Cannot be extended while outside United States
Application Process
Reentry Permit Application Steps
1
Timing and Planning
File Form I-131 while physically present in United States. Plan application 6-12 months before intended departure due to processing times.
2
Document Preparation
Gather supporting evidence including green card, travel itinerary, purpose of extended absence, and ties to United States documentation.
3
Form I-131 Filing
Submit Form I-131 Application for Travel Document with reentry permit-specific documentation and required filing fees.
4
Biometrics Services
Attend biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and background check processing. Must be completed while in United States.
5
Document Delivery
Receive approved reentry permit by mail to U.S. address or through U.S. consulate abroad if departure becomes necessary before approval.
Common Purposes for Extended Travel
Acceptable Reasons for Extended Absence
- Extended business assignments or international employment
- Education abroad including degree programs and research projects
- Medical treatment requiring extended stays outside United States
- Caring for sick or elderly family members in home country
- Military service obligations in country of citizenship
- Missionary work or humanitarian service assignments
Required Documentation
Application Requirements
- Form I-131 Application for Travel Document
- Copy of permanent resident card (front and back)
- Evidence supporting purpose and duration of travel
- Documentation of U.S. ties (employment, property, family, etc.)
- Travel itinerary or planned absence timeline
- Two passport-style photographs meeting USCIS specifications
- Filing fee payment or fee waiver request
Risks and Considerations
Important Risk Factors
- Abandonment of permanent residence presumption after one year absence
- IRS tax obligations and filing requirements while abroad
- Maintaining continuous residence requirement for naturalization eligibility
- Healthcare and social security benefit implications
- Changes in immigration law during extended absence periods
Critical Warning
Reentry permits protect against abandonment presumption but do not guarantee reentry to the United States. CBP officers retain authority to examine returning permanent residents and may still find abandonment if circumstances warrant, particularly for very extended absences.
Maintaining Permanent Residence While Abroad
Requirements for Preserving Status
- File U.S. tax returns as resident for tax purposes
- Maintain substantial connections to United States
- Keep U.S. address and demonstrate intent to return permanently
- Avoid establishing permanent residence in foreign country
- Maintain family, employment, or property ties in United States
Consular Pickup Option
Receiving Permit at U.S. Consulate
- Request consular pickup if departure necessary before permit approval
- USCIS can forward approved permit to designated U.S. consulate
- Must specify consulate and provide departure timeline in application
- Consulate will contact when reentry permit available for pickup
- May require additional documentation or interview at consulate
Processing Times and Fees
Current Processing Times
Form I-131 reentry permits typically take 13-18 months to process. Processing times vary by USCIS field office and current workload. Check USCIS processing time estimates for most current information.
Filing Fees
Form I-131 filing fee: $575. Biometrics fee: $85. Total cost: $660. Fee waivers available for applicants demonstrating financial hardship. Premium processing not available for reentry permits.
Comparison with Other Travel Documents
| Document Type | Eligible Applicants | Validity Period | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reentry Permit | Permanent Residents | Up to 2 years | Extended travel abroad |
| Green Card | Permanent Residents | Generally permanent | Short-term travel (under 1 year) |
| Refugee Travel Document | Refugees/Asylees | 1 year (renewable) | International travel for refugees |
| Advance Parole | Pending adjustments | Varies by case | Emergency/urgent travel |
Special Situations and Considerations
Military Service
Permanent residents serving in foreign military may face additional scrutiny. Consult immigration attorney before accepting foreign military service, as this may affect permanent residence status.
Tax Obligations
Permanent residents must file U.S. tax returns even while abroad and may face complex tax situations. Consult tax professional about obligations during extended absence.
Naturalization Impact
Extended absences may break continuous residence requirement for naturalization. Calculate impact on citizenship timeline before applying for reentry permit.
Returning to the United States
Reentry Process
Present reentry permit and green card to CBP officer at port of entry. Be prepared to explain purpose and duration of absence, demonstrate ties to U.S., and show intent to maintain permanent residence. Officers may ask detailed questions about activities abroad and U.S. connections.
Alternative Options for Long-Term Travel
Returning Resident Visa (SB-1)
For permanent residents who remained abroad longer than permitted and lost reentry permit validity. Requires showing circumstances beyond control prevented timely return to United States.
Naturalization Before Travel
U.S. citizens face no abandonment issues for extended foreign travel. Consider naturalization timeline if extended absence planned and eligibility requirements met.