How to Travel With a Green Card That Will Expire Soon

A green card is the most sought-after visa the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues. It allows the holder to live and work in the U.S. with little restrictions and is valid for 10 years. To keep your green card you are advised not to travel outside of the U.S. for more than one continuous year. If you plan on traveling outside the U.S. and your green card is about to expire, take these steps to make sure you retain it.

Instructions

1

Make your travel plans to leave the U.S. Make sure you won't be outside the country for more than 12 consecutive months. Note the date you plan to re-enter the U.S.

2

Look at the expiration date of your green card, listed in the center column on front of the card. Determine whether your card will expire while you are outside the country. If you plan to return before the card expires, you can simply apply for renewal when you return to the U.S.

3

Visit the website of USCIS (uscis.gov) if your card will expire while you are outside the country. Click the link to "Renew or Replace My Green Card" in the middle of the home page, under the larger heading "Green Card (Permanent Residence)." Click the link to "Renew a Green Card" at the top of the next page.

4

Choose to file for renewal electronically or through the mail. Fill out the application completely, providing an "N/A" for questions that cannot be answered. File the renewal and pay the $485 filing fee (cost in 2011).

5

Receive a notification that USCIS has received your application. Wait for your new card to arrive or, if your don't have enough time before you depart, take the receipt with you while you travel.

6

Travel outside the U.S. When you plan on re-entering the U.S., visit your nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate. Search the Department of State's embassy and consulate database to locate the diplomatic missions.

7

Go to the embassy or consulate and describe your situation. Present the renewal receipt in support of your claim. Cooperate with the embassy or consulate to gain re-entry to the U.S.