Traveling with an expired green card can be challenging for lawful permanent residents (LPRs) of the United States. Although a green card provides proof of your status, the document’s expiration can create issues when leaving or re-entering the U.S. This guide will explain the steps you can take if your green card has expired, but you still need to travel.
What Happens When Your Green Card Expires?
Your green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, serves as proof of your status in the U.S. It is typically valid for 10 years. However, after expiration, your permanent resident status does not end. The expiration of the green card only affects the physical document, not your legal status.
Still, an expired card can create problems during international travel. Airlines and border authorities often require a valid green card as part of the travel process. If your green card has expired, you might be denied boarding or face delays when re-entering the U.S.
What Should You Do if You Have an Expired Green Card and Need to Travel?
There are several ways to handle travel with an expired green card. Depending on your situation, the best approach might vary.
Renew Your Green Card Before Traveling
If possible, the best course of action is to renew your green card before your trip. You can apply for a green card renewal by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Ideally, you should file for renewal at least six months before the expiration date of your current green card.
While your green card renewal application is being processed, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797). This notice extends the validity of your expired green card for 12 or 24 months, allowing you to travel internationally while waiting for your new card.
Travel with a Valid Passport and Form I-797
If your green card renewal is in progress and you receive the Form I-797 receipt notice, you can travel internationally with this document and your expired green card. Many airlines and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will accept Form I-797 as proof that your green card is being renewed.
Make sure to carry your valid passport and both your expired green card and the Form I-797 receipt notice when traveling. You may need to show these documents at various points during your trip, including at the airport and U.S. ports of entry.
Emergency Advance Parole for Travel
If your green card has expired and you have an urgent reason to travel (such as a family emergency), you may qualify for “advance parole.” Advance parole allows you to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad without a valid green card.
To apply for advance parole, you will need to file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. You must provide a valid reason for your travel, such as a medical emergency or urgent business requirement. It’s important to note that this process can take several weeks to complete, so it’s not ideal for last-minute travel.
Using an Expired Green Card for Re-entry
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may allow lawful permanent residents to re-enter the country with an expired green card. However, this approach is risky. Although the expired card does not affect your legal status, the CBP officer has discretion to decide whether to admit you into the U.S.
If you try to re-enter the U.S. with an expired green card, be prepared to provide additional documentation to prove your status. This could include tax returns, utility bills, or a copy of your green card renewal application. There may be delays, additional questioning, or other complications during the re-entry process.
Traveling with an Expired Conditional Green Card
If you have a conditional green card that has expired, the process is different. Conditional green cards are issued to individuals who obtained permanent residency through marriage or certain investment programs. These cards are valid for only two years, and to maintain permanent resident status, you must file Form I-751 (for marriage-based green cards) or Form I-829 (for investment-based green cards) before the expiration date.
Once you file the appropriate form, USCIS will send you a receipt notice that extends the validity of your expired conditional green card for 24 months. This receipt notice, along with your expired card, allows you to travel internationally while your petition is being processed.
Returning on a Re-entry Permit
If you anticipate that your green card will expire while you are abroad for an extended period, you may apply for a re-entry permit before leaving the U.S. A re-entry permit allows you to remain outside the U.S. for up to two years without losing your permanent resident status. It can also be used as a travel document in place of a green card.
To apply for a re-entry permit, you must file Form I-131 and provide evidence of your reasons for needing the permit. This option is useful for LPRs who need to travel for extended periods but want to avoid complications related to an expired green card.
see also: How Long Does a Green Card Last?
What If You Are Denied Boarding?
If you are denied boarding on a flight back to the U.S. because of an expired green card, you can contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting. The embassy may issue you a “boarding foil,” which is a temporary travel document that allows you to board a flight back to the U.S.
To apply for a boarding foil, you will need to provide proof of your lawful permanent resident status, such as your expired green card and other documents. The boarding foil is typically valid for 30 days and is meant for emergency situations.
Avoiding Future Travel Problems
To avoid future issues with traveling on an expired green card, it’s important to stay proactive about renewing your green card before it expires. The renewal process can take several months, so make sure to file Form I-90 well in advance of any planned travel.
It is also important to keep track of your card’s expiration date. Set reminders for when your card is due for renewal, and make sure your immigration documents are in order before planning any international trips.
Conclusion
Traveling with an expired green card can be stressful, but there are several options to help ensure that you can leave and re-enter the U.S. safely. Whether you renew your green card before your trip, travel with Form I-797, apply for advance parole, or use a re-entry permit, it is crucial to be prepared and informed. By knowing your options and taking the right steps, you can reduce the likelihood of travel disruptions and maintain your lawful permanent resident status.
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