Lawful permanent residents of the United States; commonly known as green card holders; are increasingly facing extra checks and even denial of entry when returning to the U.S. after travelling abroad, according to a report by Financial Express.
Normally, green card holders have the legal right to live and work permanently in the U.S., and they can travel outside the country and come back. But recent experiences at U.S. ports of entry show a tougher situation.
In some cases, officials are scrutinising returning residents more closely, questioning their ties to the U.S. or accusing them of abandoning their residency.
Authorities can refuse entry if they believe a green card holder has stayed outside the U.S. for too long; especially for a year or more without a reentry permit.
Even extended shorter stays abroad can trigger detailed questioning about whether the person still considers the U.S. their main home.
Legal experts say that green card holders should be careful when planning long trips abroad.
To avoid problems, they recommend applying for a reentry permit (using Form I-131), maintaining strong ties to the U.S., and ensuring that their travel does not exceed the allowed limits.
In some cases, travellers have been denied entry on grounds that they abandoned their permanent residency status, forcing them to explain their situation in immigration proceedings.
For green card holders; whether Indians or other foreign nationals; understanding these rules before international travel has become even more important.