Green card holders traveling internationally may face increased scrutiny upon re-entering the United States. Reports indicate that lawful permanent residents (LPRs) are being subjected to secondary inspection at airports and other ports of entry.
Understanding your rights, the reasons for detention, and the potential risks to your green card status is crucial when returning to the US. Here’s what you need to know about why green card holders may be detained, what to do if it happens, and how to protect your legal status.
Why Green Card Holders May Be Detained at the Airport or Port of Entry
When re-entering the US, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers inspect all travelers, including green card holders. While most lawful permanent residents face no issues, some may be classified as “arriving aliens” and sent to secondary inspection for further questioning.
Common Reasons for Green Card Holder Detention
- Extended Absence from the US – If you have been outside the country for more than 180 days, CBP may question whether you intended to abandon your permanent residency.
- Criminal Record – Any past criminal conviction, even from years ago, can trigger further questioning and possible removal proceedings.
- Pending Removal Proceedings – If you left the US while in removal proceedings, returning could lead to complications and potential detainment.
- Alleged Immigration Fraud – If CBP believes your green card was obtained fraudulently, you could be placed in deportation proceedings.
- Violation of Green Card Terms – Engaging in unauthorized work or illegal activity abroad could raise concerns about your eligibility to remain a lawful permanent resident.
What to Do If You Are Sent to Secondary Inspection
If CBP sends you to secondary inspection, it means officers need additional time to review your immigration history before deciding whether to allow you entry.
Steps to Take If You Are Detained
- Remain Calm and Polite – Do not argue with CBP officers, but also do not volunteer unnecessary information.
- Request to Speak with Your Attorney – If you have an immigration attorney, you may ask to contact them, though CBP is not required to allow legal representation at this stage.
- Do Not Sign Anything Without Legal Advice – CBP officers may present Form I-407 (Record of Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Residence), which voluntarily surrenders your green card. Never sign this form without consulting an attorney.
- Ask for a Hearing Before an Immigration Judge – If CBP claims that you abandoned your residency or are inadmissible, you have the right to fight your case in immigration court rather than accept immediate removal.
- Request Documentation – If CBP detains or denies your entry, ask for written documentation of their decision.
How CBP Determines Green Card Abandonment
Key Factors CBP Considers
- Length of Time Spent Outside the US – Staying abroad for over six months may lead CBP to believe you no longer intend to live permanently in the US.
- Ties to the US – Officers assess whether you maintained a residence, paid taxes, or have family, employment, or property in the US.
- Purpose of Travel – If your stay abroad was due to temporary reasons such as work, medical treatment, or family obligations, you should provide documentation supporting this.
What to Do If CBP Claims You Abandoned Your Green Card
- Do Not Sign Form I-407 – Signing this form immediately gives up your green card, leaving you with no further legal options.
- Request a Hearing – You have the right to defend your residency before an immigration judge.
- Gather Evidence – If you frequently travel, prepare proof of ongoing ties to the US (home ownership, tax returns, US bank statements, job records, etc.).
How to Protect Your Green Card While Traveling
To avoid issues at the port of entry, take proactive steps before leaving and when returning:
- Limit Extended Absences – If you must stay outside the US for over six months, apply for a Reentry Permit (Form I-131) before traveling.
- Keep US Ties Active – Maintain a US address, bank accounts, tax filings, and employment connections to demonstrate continued residency.
- Carry Supporting Documentation – Bring proof of your stay abroad’s temporary nature (medical records, employment letters, family obligations).
- Consult an Immigration Attorney Before Traveling – If you have past criminal issues, pending removal proceedings, or extended stays abroad, get legal advice before leaving the US.
How NPZ Law Group Can Help
At NPZ Law Group, we provide expert legal assistance to green card holders facing travel issues, secondary inspection, and potential removal proceedings. Our experienced immigration attorneys can:
- Advise on travel risks and help maintain lawful permanent residency.
- Assist in responding to CBP scrutiny at the airport or port of entry.
- Fight removal proceedings if CBP tries to revoke your green card.
- Prepare reentry permits for extended stays abroad.
If you’ve been detained at a port of entry or have concerns about maintaining your green card, contact NPZ Law Group today for immediate legal assistance.
Final Thoughts
Green card holders have important rights when returning to the US, but CBP officers have the authority to question, detain, and even initiate removal proceedings in certain circumstances.
To protect your lawful permanent resident status, be prepared, stay informed, and know your rights. If you face issues at the airport or suspect your green card may be in jeopardy, seeking legal counsel immediately can make all the difference in defending your residency and ensuring a smooth reentry into the US.
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.