Traveling while your green card is pending, and after

Travel with a pending I-485

Adjustment of status assumes you remain in the United States while USCIS decides the case. If you depart without advance parole, USCIS generally considers the I-485 abandoned and may deny it. You would then need to start over or process abroad, which can create new problems.

There are exceptions for people in H-1B or L-1 status and their H-4 or L-2 dependents, and for K-3, K-4 and V status holders, who maintain that status and return to resume it. Even if you fall into an exception, confirm the rules before you book a trip.

How advance parole works

You request advance parole on Form I-131, often filed with the I-485. If approved, you may receive a standalone travel document or a combination card that serves as both a work permit and advance parole. Wait until you actually have the approved document in hand before leaving.

When you return, a US Customs and Border Protection officer inspects you. Advance parole allows you to seek parole into the country; it is not a guarantee. If you have past unlawful presence, a prior removal order, a criminal record or other complications, travel can carry serious risks even with advance parole. Speak with an independent immigration attorney before any trip in that situation.

For urgent humanitarian reasons, you can ask USCIS about an expedited or emergency advance parole appointment. Check the current USCIS guidance for how to request one.

• Carry the original advance parole document and your passport.
• Keep copies of your I-485 receipt notice and any interview notices.
• Do not miss a biometrics or interview appointment because you are abroad.

Other pending cases

If your I-751 is pending, you can usually travel using your expired conditional green card together with the receipt notice that extends your status. If your N-400 is pending, you remain a permanent resident and may travel, but trips can affect continuous residence and you must attend your interview and oath ceremony. A pending I-130 alone does not give you any travel benefit, and visiting the United States on a visitor visa while a petition is pending requires care.

Long trips after you get your green card

A green card is meant for people who live in the United States. Trips of more than six months may lead to questions at the border about whether you have abandoned your residence. An absence of one year or more generally means the green card alone is no longer a valid entry document.

If you plan to be away for a year or more, you can apply for a reentry permit on Form I-131 before you leave. You must be physically present in the United States when you file and generally need to attend a biometrics appointment. A reentry permit helps show that you did not intend to give up your residence but does not guarantee it. If you are stuck abroad for reasons beyond your control, you may be able to apply for a returning resident visa at a US consulate.