USCIS Announces New Citizenship Ambassador Initiative
Release Date
07/12/2022
Eight Citizenship Ambassadors to promote importance and opportunities of citizenship in communities nationwide
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Recording of July 21, 2022 Conference Call with Rajiv S. Khanna
Citizenship and Naturalization
Discussion Topics, Thursday, July 21, 2022:
Maintaining LPR status (Green Card) during extended absences for employment
Question details
I have a family-based green card. For my job, I need to travel outside of the US for 150-160 days (3 days per week for the entire year). I am worried that I may lose my green card. What shall I do to retain my green card and still maintain this schedule of travel for my job?
FAQ Transcript
To maintain your green card during extended absences:
- Brief trips under 6 months are generally fine.
- For longer absences Apply for a re-entry permit, allowing travel for up to 2 years.Consider filing Form N-470 to preserve continuous residence for naturalization.
- Avoid absences of 6 months or more; return within 6 months each time.
- Maintain strong ties to the U.S. (family, home, job) to demonstrate intent to reside permanently.
- If travels are work-related and you have significant U.S. ties, your green card status is less likely to be at risk.
- Absences of one year or more can lead to loss of green card status without proper documentation.