If you’re a U.S. lawful permanent resident planning to travel internationally this summer, it’s more important than ever to prepare carefully. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are asking more questions at ports of entry—and even long-term green card holders may face delays or complications if they aren’t ready.
At NPZ Law Group, we’ve been helping clients avoid unnecessary issues at reentry. Here are five key points all green card holders should keep in mind before leaving the U.S.
1. Be Ready to Show Strong Ties to the U.S.
Green card holders must maintain the U.S. as their primary residence. CBP officers may ask for evidence that your life is still rooted in the U.S.—even if your trip was short.
Recommended documents to carry:
- A current U.S. driver’s license
- Recent utility bills, mortgage or lease documents
- U.S. bank statements or credit card activity
- Employment verification letters or pay stubs
- Evidence of family ties or community involvement
If you’re returning from even a brief trip (e.g., three months abroad), officers may ask where you live, what you do, and why you were overseas.
2. Be Prepared to Explain Frequent Travel
Frequent international trips may raise questions about whether you’ve shifted your primary residence abroad. There’s no legal limit to the number of trips you can take, but each one increases scrutiny at the border.
Tip: Bring a clear explanation—business, caregiving, or other responsibilities—that aligns with your travel history. If you regularly travel for work, carry supporting letters or documents.
3. Use Reentry Permits Wisely—But Don’t Assume They Solve Everything
Reentry permits are often used when a green card holder plans to be abroad for over one year. However, CBP may still question you when you return—even with a valid permit.
Make sure you:
- Carry documents that match the reason stated in your original reentry permit application
- Provide evidence of continuing ties to the U.S.
- Can show your stay abroad was temporary and justified
A reentry permit helps preserve your status, but it’s not a guarantee of smooth reentry.
4. Avoid These Red Flags That Can Delay Reentry
CBP officers look for certain warning signs that suggest someone may have abandoned their U.S. residency. Common red flags include:
- Expired U.S. driver’s license
- Closed U.S. bank accounts
- Lack of recent U.S. employment or income
- No close family remaining in the U.S.
Before traveling, ensure your documents are current and that you can demonstrate ongoing ties to the U.S.—especially if you’ve spent extended time abroad.
5. Don’t Overlook Your Tax Responsibilities
The IRS and immigration agencies now share more data than ever before. Green card holders who fail to file U.S. tax returns—or who file incorrectly as nonresidents—may face questions about their intent to maintain residency.
To protect your status:
- File U.S. tax returns each year, even if you have no income
- Work with a qualified CPA to ensure you’re filing correctly as a resident
- Keep copies of recent returns in case you need them at the border
Final Thoughts
Traveling abroad as a green card holder is allowed—but it’s not without risks if your situation raises concerns about abandonment of residency. With the right documents and preparation, you can minimize hassle and ensure a smooth return.
At NPZ Law Group, we help green card holders prepare for international travel, apply for reentry permits, and respond to secondary inspection issues.
Contact our team today if you need help planning your trip, responding to CBP concerns, or protecting your U.S. residency status.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.