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Maintaining Permanent Resident Status in the United States
This information is relevant only to lawful United States Permanent Residents ("greencard" holders). It does not apply to those visiting the United States with non-immigrant visas.
Many immigrants believe they can live abroad as long as they return to the United States at least once a year. This is incorrect. Full details are contained in the United States Government's publication Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants available at www.welcometousa.gov. Here is an extract:
There are some things you must do to maintain your permanent resident status. These are also important to remember if you plan to apply for U.S. citizenship in the future.
- Don’t leave the United States for an extended period of time or move to another country to live there permanently.
- File federal, state, and, if applicable, local income tax returns.
- Register with the Selective Service, if you are a male between the ages of 18 and 26.
- Give your new address to DHS.
Permanent residents who leave the United States for extended periods, or who cannot show their intent to live permanently in the U.S., may lose their permanent resident status. Many immigrants believe they can live abroad as long as they return to the U.S. at least once a year. This is incorrect. If you think you will be out of the U.S. for more than 12 months, you should apply for a re-entry permit before leaving the country. You should file Form I-131, Application for a Travel Document. You can get this form at http://www.uscis.gov or by calling the USCIS Forms Line at 1-800-870-3676. You must pay a fee to file Form I-131.