The Risks of Traveling Outside the U.S. with a Green Card
General Rules for Travel
You can travel outside the U.S.
Trips should be less than 6 months to avoid problems with citizenship eligibility or suspicion of abandoning residency.
Planning to be gone more than 6 months? Talk to an immigration attorney or accredited representative about getting a re-entry permit.
What to Bring When Traveling
A valid green card (check the expiration date.)
A receipt notice if you have applied to renew your green card, to remove conditions, or for citizenship.
Conditional residents (2-year green cards): If traveling without your spouse, bring proof of your relationship like a joint lease or bank account statement.
Pending Applications
If you have applied for citizenship or removal of conditions, make sure to return in time for your interview. Missing it could delay your application.
Special Warnings for Refugees & Asylees
Never return to the country where you claimed persecution. Doing so may hurt your case or be seen as fraud.
Higher Risk Travelers
Any criminal history (minor or old) increases the chance of detainment.
Traveling to certain countries is risky, specifically Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Yemen.
Social media activity showing support for insurgent groups or criticizing the U.S. government may raise red flags.
At the Airport
Only an immigration judge can take away your green card, but border officers can start the removal process.
You have the right to:
Stay silent during questioning (but this could delay entry.)
Refuse access to your phone or devices (but this could delay entry and your device could be confiscated.)
Not sign anything without talking to an immigration attorney (some officers may pressure you to give up your green card.)
Final Tip
If you think your travel may be risky, consult an immigration attorney or accredited representative before leaving the U.S.
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