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If you’re a permanent resident of the United States with an Expired green card, you may be wondering if you can still travel. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know before you go.
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Introduction
If you are a permanent resident of the United States with an expired green card, there are a few things you need to know before traveling outside of the country. Although it is technically possible to travel with an expired green card, it is not advisable. There are a number of dangers associated with doing so, including the risk of being detained and repatriated by immigration authorities.
In addition, traveling with an expired green card can make it more difficult to reenter the United States. If you are stopped by border officials, they may decide to cancel your green card and prevent you from returning to the country. For these reasons, it is always best to renew your green card before traveling abroad.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document that proves that an individual is authorized to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. The card itself is made of plastic and is approximately the size of a credit card. It typically expires every ten years, at which point it must be renewed.
What Happens if Your Green Card Expires?
If you are a legal permanent resident of the United States, it is important to keep your green card up to date. Your green card, also known as your Permanent Resident Card, is evidence of your status as a legal permanent resident. If you travel outside of the United States with an expired green card, you may have difficulty re-entering the country.
If your green card expires while you are outside of the United States, you will need to apply for a new one at a U.S. consulate or embassy before you can return. The process for applying for a new green card can be lengthy, so it is important to plan ahead if you know you will be traveling while your green card is expired.
If you try to enter the United States with an expired green card, you may be detained at the border and placed in removal proceedings. In some cases, you may be able to apply for a “green card waiver” if you can show that your removal would cause extreme hardship to your spouse or child who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. However, this waiver is not available in all cases and it is important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney before traveling if your green card has expired or is about to expire.
Can You Travel with an Expired Green Card?
Many people are unsure whether they can travel when their green card has expired. The answer depends on a few different factors, including your immigration status, the reason for your travel, and how long your green card has been expired.
If you have an expired green card and you are traveling outside of the United States, you will need to obtain a reentry permit before you can return. A reentry permit allows you to stay outside of the country for up to two years without losing your permanent resident status.
If you are traveling within the United States, you may be able to do so with an expired green card as long as you have proof of your identity and your status as a permanent resident. However, it is always best to renew your green card before traveling so that you can avoid any potential problems.
What if You Need to Travel Outside the United States with an Expired Green Card?
If you are a permanent resident of the United States with an expired green card, you may be wondering if you can still travel outside the country. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know before you go.
First, it is important to understand that your green card is only valid for re-entry into the United States if it has not been expired for more than one year. If your green card has been expired for more than one year, you will need to apply for a new one before returning to the United States.
Second, even if your green card is not expired, you will need to have a valid passport from your country of citizenship in order to return to the United States. If you do not have a valid passport, you will need to obtain one before traveling.
Lastly, it is important to note that traveling outside the United States with an expired green card can negatively impact your application for U.S. citizenship. If you are planning on applying for citizenship, it is advisable to speak with an immigration attorney before making any travel plans.
How to Renew Your Green Card
If your green card has expired, you will need to renew it before you can travel outside of the United States. The process for renewing your green card is relatively simple and can be done by mail or in person at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
To renew your green card by mail, you will need to complete form I-90 and submit it, along with the required fee, to the USCIS. You will also need to include a passport-style photograph of yourself and any supporting documents that may be required. Once your application has been processed, you will receive a new green card in the mail.
If you are renewing your green card in person at a U.S. consulate or embassy, you will need to complete form I-90 and submit it, along with the required fee, to the consular officer. You will also need to bring along your current green card, a passport-style photograph of yourself, and any supporting documents that may be required. Once your application has been processed, you will receive a new green card on the spot.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a few things to keep in mind if you find yourself traveling with an expired green card. The most important thing is to make sure that you have all of the necessary documentation with you, as well as a backup plan in case you are denied boarding. With a little planning, you should be able to travel without any problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are a permanent resident of the United States with an expired green card, you may be wondering if you can still travel. The answer is yes, but there are some things you need to know before you travel.
Can I still use my expired green card to travel?
Yes, you can still use your expired green card to travel within the United States. However, if you are planning to travel outside of the United States, you will need to obtain a new green card before you leave. You can apply for a new Green card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
Do I need to carry my green card with me when I travel?
Yes. If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you must carry your green card with you at all times. If you are traveling within the United States, you should also have your passport or other proof of identity and citizenship with you. If you are traveling outside of the United States, you will need to carry your passport and your green card.
What if my green card is lost or stolen while I am traveling?
If your green card is lost or stolen while you are traveling outside of the United States, contact the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy immediately. You will need to apply for a new green card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
Resources
When it comes to travel and your green card, it’s important to know the rules and regulations. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is valid for 10 years. This means that if you have an expired green card, you will need to renew it before you can travel outside of the United States.
There are several ways to renew your green card, but the most common is to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form can be filed online or by mail, and USCIS recommends that you file your renewal application at least six months before your card expires.
If you need to travel before your renewal application is processed, you may be able to apply for a travel document known as a “boarding foil.” This document allows you to temporarily return to the United States after traveling abroad. To apply for a boarding foil, you will need to file Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation).
It’s important to note that if your green card has been expired for more than one year, you will need to apply for a new green card instead of renewing your old one. To do this, you will need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. You may also be required to attend an interview at a USCIS office.
If you have any questions about traveling with an expired green card or how to renew your green card, we encourage you contact an experienced immigration attorney who can help guide you through the process and ensure that everything is done correctly.
