What is a Re-entry Permit and How to Get It?

FRONT MARCH 14, 2025 / IN BLOGS

Ergül Çeliksoy, Immigration Lawyer, CK Law Firm

A re-entry permit is a travel document issued to individuals with permanent residency (green card) status in the United States (US) that allows them to return to the US if they spend more than one year outside the US. A prolonged stay outside the US can jeopardize green card holders' permanent residency status. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may determine that individuals who have been out of the country for an extended period do not intend to live permanently in the US and may revoke their green cards. To prevent this, a re-entry permit helps green card holders maintain their legal status when they need to be abroad for work, education, health, or personal reasons.

1. Why is a Re-entry Permit Necessary?

The US requires permanent residents to have the US as their primary residence. However, in some cases, green card holders may be required to travel outside the US for extended periods. For example:

• Work: A green card holder may receive a job offer to work in a country outside the United States or may be temporarily assigned abroad by their company.
• Education: A student with permanent residency in the United States may participate in a study abroad program or engage in a long-term research project.
• Health: A person may have to seek treatment abroad.
• Family Reasons: It may be necessary to help family members or to stay abroad with the family for a longer period of time.

In such cases, a re-entry permit allows you to remain outside the US for an extended period without losing your permanent resident status.

2. Benefits of Re-entry Permit

• Green Card Protection: Protects your right to return to the US by mitigating the risk of losing your permanent residency status.
• Does Not Affect Citizenship Application: Absence from the US with a re-entry permit does not negatively impact your future citizenship application.
• Multiple Use: Valid for two years and allows multiple trips during that time.
• Visa Facilitation: May ease visa processes in some countries (check each country’s policy).

3. How to Apply for a Re-entry Permit?

Step 1: Filling out Form I-131

Download and complete Form I-131 from the USCIS website. Applications must be filed while physically in the US.

Step 2: Preparation of Necessary Documents

• Photocopy of Green Card (Form I-551)
• Passport ID page
• Proof of travel purpose (e.g., employment contract, university letter)
• Two passport-sized photographs

Step 3: Application Fees

As of 2024, the fee is approximately $575 plus a $85 biometric fee. Check the USCIS website for updates.

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

Applicants will be invited for fingerprinting and a photo at a USCIS office.

Step 5: Application Evaluation

Processing usually takes up to 6 months. If approved, your permit is mailed to you.

Step 6: Validity Period

Valid for two years. You must reapply before expiration if staying abroad longer.

4. Things to Consider About Re-entry Permit

• Application Location: Must be within the US at time of filing.
• Renewal: Reapply before the two-year expiration date if needed again.
• Extended Absence: Staying abroad over 6 months may trigger CBP questioning, even with a permit.

5. Frequently Asked Questions About Re-entry Permit Application

Is it mandatory to obtain a Re-entry Permit?

No, but it's highly recommended for those staying abroad more than a year.

How long does the application take?

Typically 3–6 months depending on USCIS workload.

Can my application be rejected?

Yes, due to incomplete documents or failing to meet eligibility.

How long can I stay outside the US?

Up to two years per permit. You must renew after that.

Does this affect my US citizenship application?

No, but time abroad doesn't count toward residency requirements for naturalization.

Conclusion

A re-entry permit is vital for maintaining green card status when extended travel is necessary. Whether for work, education, health, or family, it ensures uninterrupted legal residency. CK Law Firm provides full legal support during the application process. Contact us at cklawfirm.org, info@cklawfirm.org, or via LinkedIn.

Who is Lawyer Ergül Çeliksoy?

Dr. Ergül Çeliksoy is the founding partner of CK Law Firm and an assistant professor of law at the University of Nottingham. She completed her doctorate in 2022, with expertise in modern slavery, criminal law, and immigration law. As a member of the California Bar Association, she offers exceptional representation in US immigration law cases.

Dr. Çeliksoy provides comprehensive and strategic solutions for her clients, helping them secure and maintain legal status in the US. Her academic and legal expertise ensures reliable, high-quality legal services for all immigration-related needs.