Contents
If you have a green card that is about to expire, you may be wondering if you can still travel. The answer is yes! However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
If your Green Card will expire in the next six months, you should renew it now to avoid any problems traveling outside the United States. It is best to apply for a new Green Card as soon as possible because the processing time can take up to eight months. You may also need to get a new passport if your current one will expire before your Green Card.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card is an identification card that proves that you are a permanent resident of the United States. If you have a Green Card, you are allowed to live and work permanently in the United States. You can also travel outside of the United States and re-enter using your Green Card.
What Happens if a Green Card Expires?
If your green card expires, you will no longer be a permanent resident of the United States. However, this does not mean that you will be automatically deported. If you are caught without a valid green card, you may be placed in removal proceedings to determine whether or not you will be allowed to stay in the country.
If your green card expires while you are outside of the United States, you will need to obtain a new one before you can return. You can do this by applying for a reentry permit at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad.
If your green card expires and you are inside the United States, you can still apply for a reentry permit. However, if your application is denied, you will need to leave the country and apply for a new green card from abroad.
How to Renew a Green Card
If you are a permanent resident whose green card is about to expire you will need to renew it. The process is relatively simple, but there are a few things you need to know and do in order to ensure that your renewal application is successful.
First, you will need to gather the required documents. These include your current green card, a passport-style photo, and evidence of your continuous residency in the United States. You will also need to complete and sign Form I-90, which is the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you will need to submit them to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can do this by mail or online. If you choose to submit your application online, you will need to create an account with USCIS first.
Once USCIS has received your application, they will review it and determine whether or not you are eligible for renewal. If everything looks good, they will approve your application and send you a new green card. The whole process usually takes around two months from start to finish.
Tips for Traveling with an Expiring Green Card
If your green card is about to expire, there are a few things you should keep in mind before traveling. First, check the expiration date on your green card and make sure that it will not expire while you are away. If it will, you will need to renew your green card before you leave. Second, if you are traveling to a country that requires a visa for entry, make sure to apply for and receive a visa BEFORE your green card expires. Third, always travel with a photocopy of your green card as well as another form of identification, such as a passport. Lastly, if you have any questions or concerns, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling.
What to do if a Green Card is Lost or Stolen
If you are a permanent resident of the United States (also known as a “green card” holder), it is important to keep your green card up to date and renew it before it expires. Here is what you need to do if your green card is lost or stolen.
First, you should contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to report the loss or theft of your green card. You can do this by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.
Next, you will need to fill out a Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form is available on the USCIS website.
Once you have completed the form, you will need to send it, along with the required fee, to the address listed on the form instructions.
Once USCIS has received and processed your Form I-90, they will mail you a new green card. In the meantime, if you need proof of your permanent resident status, you can request an interim travel document by filing a Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.
FAQs about Traveling with an Expiring Green Card
Are you a permanent resident of the United States with a green card that is about to expire? If so, you may have questions about traveling outside of the country Below are some frequently asked questions that may help you understand the process and requirements for traveling with an expiring green card.
When can I travel with an expiring green card?
You can travel outside of the United States as long as your green card is valid for entry. However, we recommend that you renew your green card before traveling, as it may be more difficult to renew your green card from outside of the United States. Additionally, if your green card expires while you are traveling, you will need to obtain a new one before returning to the United States.
Do I need a new green card if my current one is expired?
Yes. If your green card has expired, you will need to obtain a new one before returning to the United States. You can apply for a new green card from inside or outside of the United States, but we recommend doing so from inside the country if possible.
What if my green card will expire while I am traveling?
If your green card will expire while you are traveling, we recommend renewing it before departing on your trip. However, if this is not possible, you can apply for a new green card from inside or outside of the United States. Please note that if you apply for a new green card from outside of the country, it may take several months to obtain your new card. Therefore, it is important to plan accordingly and allow enough time for your application to be processed before returning to the United States.
What are the requirements for renewing my green card?
To renew yourgreencard, you must submit an Application to Renew Permanent Resident Card (Form I-90), along with any supporting documentation and the application fee. Additionally, you will need to have your biometrics ( fingerprints and photo) taken at a USCIS office or Application Support Center whenyou submityour application. Please note thatifyouare renewing agreencard that has beenlostor stolen,youwill also needto submit additional documentationto proveyour identity and residency in order tobenotifiedof an interview appointment(if required).
Conclusion
If your green card is about to expire, there are a few things you can do to ensure a smooth travel experience:
-Make sure you have all the required documentation. This includes your green card, passport, and travel itinerary.
-Check the expiration date on your green card and make sure it will still be valid for the duration of your trip.
-If you are traveling outside of the United States, check with the consulate or embassy of your destination country to see if they have any special requirements for travelers with an expired green card.
-Allow extra time at the airport or border crossing, as you may be subject to additional questioning.
By following these simple tips, you can minimize the hassle of traveling with an expired green card and make sure your trip goes off without a hitch.
Resources
When traveling outside the United States with a green card that is about to expire, it is important to be prepared. Below are some resources that may be helpful:
-The Department of State website has information on [traveling with a green card that is about to expire](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/frequently-asked-questions/ renewal-of-permanent-resident-card.html).
-The U.S. Customs and Border Protection website has [information on traveling with a green card that is about to expire](https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/preparing-reentry).
-The Department of Homeland Security’s website has [information on traveling with a green card that is about to expire](https://www.dhs.gov/newsroom/faq/what-packets).
About the Author
My name is Tom and I am originally from the United States. I have been living in China for the past five years teaching English. In September, I will be traveling back to the States for a two-week vacation. My green card is set to expire in November, just two months after I return to China.
I have been researching what I need to do in order to renew my green card while I am still living in China, and it seems like it will be a bit of a process. I need to send in my application and supporting documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in State 10 months before my green card expires. That means I need to send everything in by January at the latest, which is when my green card expires.
I will also need to include a copy of my current green card, as well as two passport-style photos. My concern is that USCIS may not process my application before my current green card expires, leaving me without legal status in the United States. If that happens, I may not be able to return to China.
I am hoping that by sharing my story and experiences, others who are in a similar situation will be able to benefit from what I have learned.
