As a Green Card holder, you may have been granted permanent residency status in the United States, but what happens if you need to live or work abroad for an extended period of time? If you plan to stay outside the U.S. for more than one year, you may risk losing your permanent residency status. Fortunately, the Re-entry Permit Visa offers a solution, allowing you to maintain your U.S. residency while living outside the country for a longer duration.

At Larhdel Law, we specialize in helping lawful permanent residents apply for a Re-entry Permit to ensure they can travel abroad without jeopardizing their Green Card status. Whether you are working, studying, or dealing with family matters overseas, we can guide you through the process of securing a Re-entry Permit and ensure your status remains intact. Call 310 943 6352 today to discuss your case and begin the process.

What is a Re-entry Permit Visa?

The Re-entry Permit Visa is a document issued to lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) who plan to remain outside the U.S. for an extended period (typically more than one year but less than two years). This permit allows you to maintain your permanent residency status while you are outside the U.S., ensuring that you don’t lose your Green Card due to a prolonged absence.

The Re-entry Permit serves as a travel document and is an essential option for Green Card holders who have work, family, or personal commitments that require them to stay outside the U.S. temporarily. With this permit, you can enter and leave the U.S. without losing your residency status, and it can also be used to re-enter the U.S. after an extended absence.

Who Needs a Re-entry Permit Visa?

The Re-entry Permit Visa is ideal for lawful permanent residents who:

• Plan to stay outside the U.S. for an extended period (over one year but less than two years).
• Have a job, family obligations, or other commitments abroad.
• Want to maintain their U.S. permanent residency status during their absence.

You need a Re-entry Permit Visa if you anticipate being outside the U.S. for an extended time and want to ensure that your residency status is preserved. Without a Re-entry Permit, you may risk being considered to have abandoned your permanent resident status, leading to complications when you attempt to return to the U.S.

How to Apply for a Re-entry Permit Visa

The process for obtaining a Re-entry Permit Visa involves several important steps. It’s critical to apply for this permit before you leave the U.S. to ensure you don’t face complications upon re-entry. Here’s an overview of the process:

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

To apply for a Re-entry Permit, you must meet the following requirements:

• Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder): You must already have permanent resident status in the U.S.
• Absence for Over One Year: You must intend to be outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years.
• Intent to Return: You must plan to return to the U.S. and re-establish your permanent residence.

If you meet these criteria, you are eligible to apply for a Re-entry Permit.

Step 2: Complete Form I-131

The next step in the application process is to complete Form I-131, the Application for Travel Document. This form is used to apply for various travel documents, including the Re-entry Permit. When completing this form, you will need to provide:

• Basic personal information (name, address, date of birth).
• Your permanent resident card number and other details about your Green Card status.
• The intended duration of your stay abroad and the purpose of your absence.

Step 3: Submit Biometrics

As part of the application process, you will be required to attend a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. This is a standard procedure for most U.S. immigration applications and is used to verify your identity and background.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Once your Form I-131 and biometrics are processed, you will need to wait for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to review your application. This process can take several months, so it’s essential to apply well in advance of your intended departure from the U.S.

Step 5: Receive Your Re-entry Permit

If your application is approved, you will receive your Re-entry Permit. You can then travel outside the U.S. and return within the validity period of the permit, which is typically two years. You must re-enter the U.S. before the permit expires to maintain your permanent residency status.

Why Choose Larhdel Law for Your Re-entry Permit Application?

At Larhdel Law, we provide expert legal assistance to Green Card holders who need a Re-entry Permit to maintain their U.S. residency while abroad. Here’s how we can help:

1. Eligibility Assessment - We evaluate your situation to determine whether you qualify for a Re-entry Permit and help you understand your options.
2. Complete Application Assistance - We guide you through the Form I-131 application process, ensuring that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or denials.
3. Biometrics and Interview Preparation - We assist you with preparing for the biometrics appointment and provide guidance on any interviews or additional documentation required.
4. Timely Filing and Follow-Up - We ensure that your application is filed on time and assist with any necessary follow-up to ensure a smooth process.

Real-Life Success Stories

• Case 1: Working Abroad for an Extended Period - A client had a job offer that required them to work overseas for two years. We helped them apply for a Re-entry Permit, and with our assistance, they were able to maintain their U.S. residency while fulfilling their work obligations.
• Case 2: Family Obligation Abroad - A Green Card holder needed to care for a sick relative abroad for an extended period. With our help, they secured a Re-entry Permit and returned to the U.S. after two years without losing their permanent residency.
• Case 3: Business Assignment Overseas - A business professional was assigned to manage operations overseas for an extended period. Larhdel Law helped them secure a Re-entry Permit, allowing them to continue their business responsibilities while retaining their U.S. residency.