I-131 Reentry Permit
Securing residence status during a stay abroad
I-131 Reentry Permit
A Reentry Permit is a travel document that allows permanent residents (green card holders) to stay outside the United States for up to two years while retaining their green cards. For more information, please read our article on Reentry Permits published in Heimat Abroad https://heimatabroad.com/articles/orga-recht/rechtliches/langere-aufenthalte-ausserhalb-der-usa-konnen-deine-green-card-gefahrden?cookies=ok.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
The I-131 Reentry Permit is important documentation for green card holders who plan to spend extended periods of time outside the United States. This document helps maintain permanent resident status while you are abroad. Due to the critical nature of the Reentry Permit and the specific requirements it entails, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions. Here you will find information on how to apply, the documents required and the validity periods of the permit. Our experts are also available to answer specific questions and guide you through the application process.
What is a re-entry permit?
A Reentry Permit is a travel document issued by the USCIS that allows you to keep your green card while living or traveling abroad. A Reentry Permit allows you to stay outside the U.S. for up to two years while maintaining your permanent residence in the U.S.
Why do I need a re-entry permit?
Green Card holders should obtain a Reentry Permit prior to any planned travel outside the U.S. for more than six months. A Reentry Permit is a document you can use to prove that you intend to remain a U.S. permanent resident and that you do not intend to give up your green card.
If you stay outside the USA for longer than 6 months, the US Customs and Border Protection Service may determine that you have given up your Green Card. For this reason, you may be denied entry to the USA.
If you leave the U.S. for more than 180 days, you may also be questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials to determine whether you are maintaining your permanent resident status or whether you have relinquished your permanent resident status.
In either scenario, a Reentry Permit will help you prove your intent to maintain your U.S. residency status and green card.
Can I apply for a reentry permit outside the USA?
You can travel outside the U.S. while your reentry permit application is being processed, but you must be physically present in the United States for at least two days: the day USCIS receives your reentry permit application AND for your biometrics appointment, which is usually scheduled about 4-8 weeks after you file your reentry permit. If you are not physically in the U.S. on these two dates, USCIS will deny your Reentry Permit.
Applicants who have applied for a Reentry Permit may leave the U.S. after completing the biometric appointment and wait for the Reentry Permit to be mailed to their foreign address.
Can I submit my biometric data from outside the USA?
No. To apply, you must have your biometric data collected at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) in the United States. It is not possible to enroll your biometric data abroad.
How long are re-entry permits valid for?
Up to 2 years.
I have submitted my Reentry Permit application. Do I have to stay in the USA until my biometric screening?
No. However, if you leave the United States before you have your biometrics taken, you will need to return to the US for this appointment a few weeks later. It is not possible to have your biometric data taken abroad.
How often can I renew my re-entry permit?
Each Reentry Permit can be issued for 2 years. It is possible to apply for additional Reentry Permits - also valid for 2 years - but USCIS generally limits the total validity period for Reentry Permits to 4 years.
I was warned by CBP that I have had too many long stays outside the US. Should I apply for a Reentry Permit?
Yes, in this scenario, applying for a Reentry Permit is strongly recommended as a means of protecting your status.