How Green Card Holders Can Apply for a Re-Entry Permit

Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) planning to stay outside the United States for an extended period must take steps to protect their status. If you will be outside the U.S. for more than one year, you need a re-entry permit to return without the risk of being denied entry or losing your green card.

A re-entry permit is issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and serves as proof that you did not intend to abandon your residency. However, strict rules apply. You must file your application while physically present in the U.S. and remain until USCIS issues a receipt notice confirming your case has been received. If you leave before this, your application will be denied.

This guide explains:

• What a re-entry permit is
• Who needs one
• How to apply
• Filing fees and processing times
• Important travel restrictions
• How to request permit delivery to a U.S. consulate abroad

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What Is a Re-Entry Permit?

A re-entry permit is a travel document that allows lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to remain outside the U.S. for up to two years without their green card being considered abandoned.

Without a re-entry permit, a stay of one year or more outside the U.S. may result in the loss of permanent resident status. If you leave for an extended period without this document, you may need to apply for a returning resident visa (SB-1) to re-enter, which can be difficult to obtain.

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Who Needs a Re-Entry Permit?

You should apply for a re-entry permit if:

• You plan to be outside the U.S. for one year or more.
• You frequently travel abroad for extended periods.
• You do not have strong ties in the U.S. but wish to keep your green card.

Who Does Not Need a Re-Entry Permit?

• Green card holders traveling for less than one year.
• U.S. citizens or conditional permanent residents.
• Permanent residents who plan to apply for U.S. citizenship soon and will not be outside the U.S. for extended periods.

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How to Apply for a Re-Entry Permit

Step 1: Complete Form I-131

To apply, submit Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document).

Step 2: Pay the Filing Fee

The filing fee for Form I-131 depends on your age and is subject to change. Payments can be made by check, money order, or credit card using Form G-1450.

Step 3: Submit Your Application to USCIS

Mail the completed Form I-131, payment, and supporting documents to the correct USCIS Lockbox. The mailing address depends on your location, so check the USCIS website for the latest details.

Step 4: Wait for the Receipt Notice Before Traveling

Once USCIS receives your application, they will issue a receipt notice (Form I-797C). You must wait to receive this notice before traveling outside the U.S. If you leave the country before USCIS receives your application, it will be automatically denied.

Step 5: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

Applicants between 14 and 79 years old must complete a biometrics appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC). You will receive an appointment notice from USCIS with the date, time, and location.

Step 6: Request Permit Delivery to a U.S. Consulate (If Needed)

By default, USCIS will mail your approved re-entry permit to your U.S. address. However, you can request that the permit be sent to a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad for pick-up.

To request consular delivery:

• Indicate your preference on Form I-131 in Part 2, Item 5.
• Choose a U.S. consulate in the country where you plan to be.
• Ensure the consulate you select accepts re-entry permits for pick-up.

If approved, you must follow the consulate’s instructions on when and how to retrieve your document.

Step 7: Wait for USCIS to Process Your Case

Processing times vary, but most applications take 3 to 6 months. If you need to leave the U.S. before your permit is approved, make sure to provide a reliable U.S. address or select consular pick-up.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving the U.S. before receiving your receipt notice: If you travel before USCIS confirms receipt, your application will be denied.
• Applying while outside the U.S.: You must be physically present in the U.S. at the time of filing.
• Providing an incorrect address: USCIS does not mail re-entry permits to foreign addresses, only to U.S. addresses or a designated U.S. consulate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel while my re-entry permit application is pending?

Yes, but only after USCIS has received your application and issued a receipt notice. If you leave before this, your application will be denied.

How long is a re-entry permit valid?

A re-entry permit is usually valid for two years from the date of issuance.

Can I renew my re-entry permit?

You cannot renew a re-entry permit, but you can apply for a new one once the current permit expires.

Can I pick up my re-entry permit outside the U.S.?

Yes. You can request delivery to a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad when you file Form I-131. However, not all consulates provide this service, so check availability before choosing this option.

Does a re-entry permit guarantee entry into the U.S.?

No. A re-entry permit helps prove you did not abandon your residency, but U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the final authority to allow or deny entry.

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Conclusion

A re-entry permit is essential for green card holders who plan to be outside the U.S. for an extended period. To avoid losing your permanent resident status, you must file your application while in the U.S. and remain until you receive your USCIS receipt notice. If you expect to be abroad when the permit is issued, you can request delivery to a U.S. consulate for pick-up.

For personalized assistance, consult an immigration attorney.