If you’re a U.S. immigrant, whether you hold a green card (lawful permanent resident) or a nonimmigrant visa, it’s natural to wonder, “Can I travel outside the U.S. and come back without problems?”
The short answer: Yes, in most cases, you can travel internationally if you carry the right documents and don’t stay away too long. But it’s important to know that not all travel is equal. In some cases, travel could jeopardize your immigration status, especially right now during the Trump administration. Let’s break down what you need to know before booking that flight.
As a green card holder, you are allowed to travel outside the U.S. and return, but you’re not immune from questioning, delays, or even denial of entry.
The USCIS offers guidelines for green card holders to consider when planning international travel. Keep in mind that the length of trip will impact your risks upon return. Trips shorter than 6 months are less likely to be audited by Customs agents. However, if you travel abroad for more than six months, you may face additional questioning upon your return. Extended trips lasting a year or more can be considered abandonment of permanent resident status if you did not file Form I-131 (Reentry Permit) before departing the U.S.
Aside from length of trip, if you have a criminal record, even a short trip can jeopardize your status. Do not leave the U.S. without consulting with an experienced immigration attorney, even if you have previously traveled after your criminal issue.
Be sure to have these documents complete and available upon your return:
Valid green card
Valid foreign passport
Reentry permit – Form I-131 (if staying abroad for over 1 year)
Proof of ties to the U.S. (ex: tax returns or pay stubs, statement for an active U.S. bank account, U.S. address or lease, etc.)
Certified copies of criminal dockets, arrest records, and/or police reports.
Even short trips abroad can become complicated for green card holders if:
You have a criminal record (even sealed, pardoned or expunged charges
You’ve been out of the U.S. frequently or for long periods
You’ve failed to file U.S. taxes or maintain key ties (job, lease, etc.)
You lied at any stage of your immigration history
If you hold a nonimmigrant visa (such as F-1, H-1B, J-1, etc.) it is important to understand that your travel plans can be more easily affected by changes in immigration policy (even illegal changes). In order to return, make sure you have the minimum documentation:
Valid visa
Valid passport (must not be expiring in the next 6 months)
Evidence that you’re still fulfilling the visa terms (ex: enrollment letter for F-1 students) and not violating them (ex: working without authorization)
Remember that you may need to renew your visa before reentry, and it can be revoked without notice, especially if you have a criminal record, are a student under disciplinary review, or are suspected of violating your visa conditions (ex: dropping classes or unauthorized work). If Customs and Border Patrol believes there is “good cause,” your visa can be revoked without court proceeding. Recently, even criminal charges (not convictions), activism, or online posts have triggered visa revocations.
Certain individuals may face a higher risk of removal or detention when traveling internationally. Exercise extra caution if you fall into any of the following categories:
Green card holders with criminal history
Visa holders with pending academic or disciplinary issues
Travelers from countries subject to travel bans (e.g. racially profiled groups) are under increased scrutiny (e.g. Iran, Haiti, Venezuela, Cuba)
Anyone with pending immigration applications or appeals
International travel as a non-citizen comes with extra responsibilities. While most trips go smoothly, being prepared can help you avoid unnecessary delays or complications at the border. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure your travel plans align with immigration guidelines and protect your ability to reenter the U.S. without issue.
Prepare your paperwork – keep multiple copies of all documents.
Consult with your immigration attorney before traveling, especially if:
You plan to be away for more than 6 months
You’ve had any issues with immigration, law enforcement, or status violations
Carry proof of maintenance of status in the U.S.
Know your rights at the border
Memorize key phone numbers, like your attorney and trusted family members
Travel without any phones and computers that contain any personal or professional information
Please note that we are not trying to scare you, but, instead, help you plan international travel safely. When in doubt, always speak with your immigration attorney before leaving the U.S. At Cambridge Immigration Law, we’re here to help you travel with confidence. Whether you’re a green card holder or visa holder, our attorneys can guide you through the right steps to protect your status.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation before your trip.
Q: Does a visa or green card guarantee reentry?
No. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the final say on who is allowed in.
Q: How long can I stay outside the US without losing my green card?
Try to keep trips under 6 months. Over 1 year may trigger abandonment without a reentry permit.
Q: What documents do I need to return to the US?
Valid visa or green card
Valid passport
Supporting documents based on your visa (like I-20 for students)
Q: What’s the risk of being denied entry?
Risks are higher if you have a criminal record, status violations, or are traveling from flagged countries.
Q: What is Form I-131?
It’s the application for a reentry permit that helps permanent residents stay abroad for over a year without losing status.
