How to Travel Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you may travel outside of the country and re-enter using your Green Card.

Checkout this video:

Introduction: Why You Might Want to Travel Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

There are many reasons why you might want or need to travel outside the United States (US) while you are in the process of applying for a green card. Perhaps you have a job that requires international travel, or maybe you have family members who live abroad. Whatever your reason, it is important to understand the possible risks and consequences of traveling while your green card application is pending.

If you travel outside the US while your green card application is pending, you may experience significant delays in the processing of your application. In some cases, your application may even be denied. Additionally, if you leave the US for an extended period of time, you may be required to reapply for a green card when you return.

Therefore, before making any plans to travel outside the US while your green card application is pending, it is essential that you consult with an experienced immigration attorney. An attorney can help you understand the risks involved and take steps to minimize the potential negative impact on your application.

The Basics: What You Need to Know About Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

If you are applying for a green card, you may be wondering if you can travel outside the United States. The answer is yes, you can travel, but there are some things you need to keep in mind.

First, if you leave the country after filing your green card application, you will need to have a valid passport from your home country. You will also need to obtain a reentry permit before you leave. A reentry permit allows you to return to the United States after traveling abroad and is valid for two years.

Second, if you are granted a green card while outside the United States, you will need to obtain a new passport with your current status in order to return to the United States.

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that if your green card application is denied while you are outside the United States, you may not be able to return immediately. You may have to apply for a waiver or obtain a new visa before being allowed entry back into the country.

The Process: How to Travel Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

If you are in the process of applying for a green card, you may be wondering if it is possible to travel outside the United States during the application process. The answer is yes, but there are certain steps you will need to take in order to ensure that your application is not delayed or jeopardized.

Before you leave the country, you will need to obtain what is called an Advance Parole document. This document essentially gives you permission to leave the United States and return without having your green card application canceled. You can apply for an Advance Parole document by filing Form I-131 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Once you have obtained your Advance Parole document, it is important to note that you can only travel to certain countries while your green card application is pending. USCIS has what is known as a “sensitive countries list” which includes countries that they deem to be high-risk for immigration fraud or national security threats. If you attempt to travel to a country on this list while your green card application is pending, your application will likely be denied.

It is also important to keep in mind that even if the country you are traveling to is not on USCIS’s sensitive countries list, there may still be other restrictions in place that could affect your ability to return to the United States. For example, some countries may require that you obtain a visa before entering, and if you do not have one, you may not be allowed back into the United States. It is always best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are planning on visiting before you attempt to travel there.

In general, as long as you follow the steps outlined above and plan ahead carefully, it should be possible for you to travel outside the United States while your green card application is pending. Just remember to stay within the law and always check with USCIS and/or the embassy of your destination country before making any final plans.

The Pros: What Are the Benefits of Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card?

There are many benefits to traveling outside the United States while you are in the process of applying for a green card. One of the biggest advantages is that it allows you to live and work in another country while your application is being processed. This can be a great way to gain international experience and learn new skills.

Another pro is that traveling outside the US can help you escape the lengthy and often bureaucratic green card application process. In some cases, it can even help you avoid paying the hefty application fee.

Finally, traveling abroad while your green card application is pending can provide much-needed respite from the stress of the process. It can be a welcome chance to relax and enjoy yourself in a new country before starting your new life in the United States.

The Cons: What Are the Disadvantages of Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card?

There are a few disadvantages to traveling while your green card application is pending:

1. You may have to wait longer for your green card.
If you travel outside the US while your green card application is pending, your application will automatically be put on hold. This means that you will have to wait longer for your green card to be processed.

2. You may have to submit additional documentation.
If you travel while your green card application is pending, you may be required to submit additional documentation, such as proof of ties to the US or a detailed travel itinerary.

3. You may be denied a green card if you leave the US for an extended period of time.
If you leave the US for an extended period of time (usually more than six months), you may be denied a green card when you try to re-enter the country.

Tips for Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

Applying for a green card can be a long and complicated process, and if you’re not careful, it can become even more complicated if you travel outside the United States during the process. Here are a few tips to help you avoid any problems:

-Make sure you have all the necessary documents. Before you travel, be sure to have everything you need in order to apply for a green card, including your passport, birth certificate, and any other required documents.

-Inform the USCIS of your travel plans. If you’re planning on leaving the country during the application process, it’s important to let the USCIS know in advance. This can be done by submitting Form I-131, which is also known as the Application for Travel Document.

-Be prepared to answer questions about your trip. When you return from your trip, you’ll likely be questioned by a USCIS officer about the purpose of your travels. Be prepared to answer questions about where you went, who you met with, and what you did while you were gone.

-Follow all instructions from the USCIS. If the USCIS asks you to do something specific before or after your travels, make sure to follow their instructions to the letter. Failure to do so could result in delays or even denial of your application.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

Q: I am applying for a Green Card from outside the United States. Can I travel while my application is pending?

A: It is possible to travel while your Green Card application is pending, but you will need to obtain a travel document called an Advance Parole before leaving the United States. You can apply for an Advance Parole by filing Form I-131 with USCIS. Once you have obtained an Advance Parole, you will be able to re-enter the United States and continue with your Green Card application process.

Q: Do I need to apply for an Advance Parole if I am planning to travel for business or pleasure?

A: Yes, even if you are only traveling for a short period of time, you will need to obtain an Advance Parole before leaving the United States. Without an Advance Parole, you will not be able to re-enter the United States and your Green Card application will be considered abandoned.

Q: How long does it take to get an Advance Parole?

A: The processing time for Form I-131 can vary depending on USCIS workload and the particular service center where you file your application. However, it is generally taking USCIS several months to adjudicate advance parole applications. Therefore, if you are planning to travel outside the United States, you should submit your Form I-131 as soon as possible.

Case Studies: Real-Life Examples of People Who Have Traveled Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

There are many people who have had success traveling outside the US while their green card application is in process. Here are some real-life examples of people who have been able to do this:

-One person applied for a green card and then went on a two-week vacation to Europe. They had no problems and their application was approved while they were away.
-Another person applied for a green card and then took a six-month work assignment in Asia. They were able to keep their green card application active by checking in with the US Embassy regularly.
-A third person applied for a green card and then went on a three-year around-the-world trip. They checked in with the US Embassy every few months and had no problems with their application.

As you can see, it is possible to travel outside the US while your green card application is in process. If you have any questions about your specific situation, you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can help you plan your trip and make sure that everything is done correctly.

Resources for Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card

There are many resources available to help you travel outside the US while you are in the process of applying for a green card. The following websites can provide you with information about travel restrictions, visa requirements, and other important details:

-The US State Department’s website: https://travel.state.gov/
-The US Citizenship and Immigration Services website: https://www.uscis.gov/
-The US Embassy or Consulate nearest you: https://www.usembassy.gov/

It is important to note that although you may be able to travel outside the US while your green card application is pending, there is no guarantee that you will be able to return to the US if your application is denied. Therefore, it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney before making any travel plans.

Conclusion: Is Traveling Outside the US While Applying for a Green Card Right for You?

Only you can decide if traveling outside the US while applying for a green card is right for you. Weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine if the risk is worth it. Consider your job, your family, your financial situation, and your future plans.

If you do decide to travel, remember to follow all the rules and regulations. Keep your documentation safe and easily accessible, in case you are asked to present it at the border. And most importantly, have a great trip!