Green Card Holders: Travel with Caution

Our office has seen a sharp rise in telephone calls from green card holders deeply worried that if they travel outside the United States — whether to visit aging parents, attend a family wedding, or handle urgent business — they may not be allowed back in.
A Surge in Anxiety at the Border
This anxiety is not unfounded. Over the past several months, we’ve heard numerous reports of green card holders being detained at airports, subjected to aggressive questioning, or even pressured by border officials to sign forms relinquishing their lawful permanent resident status. Routine trips that once carried little worry are now fraught with concern.


What’s Happening at U.S. Ports of Entry
Many lawful permanent residents have been pulled aside for secondary inspection, sometimes for hours, simply because of prior travel patterns, minor legal issues, or inconsistencies in paperwork. Even those who have followed the rules carefully are finding that spending extended time abroad — particularly beyond six months — can “raise eyebrows” and lead to scrutiny or accusations of abandoning U.S. residency.

​The High Stakes of Being Denied Reentry
The consequences of being barred from reentry are life-altering. A green card holder who cannot return may abruptly lose their job, their home, their business, or access to healthcare in the United States. Families can be split apart with no notice — parents left overseas away from their children, or spouses forced to navigate long separations. On top of the personal toll, many individuals find themselves stranded in countries they left long ago, often without financial resources or a clear path forward.

The Legal Fallout: More Than Just Missed Flights
The legal consequences are equally serious. Extended absences or denied reentry can reset the clock for U.S. citizenship eligibility. In some cases, it can even trigger abandonment of lawful permanent resident status, making it extremely difficult or impossible to regain. A single travel decision can carry consequences that ripple through someone’s legal and personal life for years.

Protect Yourself: Know Your Rights Before You Go
Given this climate, we strongly encourage all green card holders to understand their rights before traveling. It’s essential to review past travel history, resolve any potential legal issues, and ensure all paperwork is consistent. Consulting with a qualified immigration attorney can help safeguard your status, avoid costly mistakes, and offer peace of mind before you step on a plane.
​Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. The views expressed are the author’s opinion, based on general legal principles. The author is licensed in California and in Federal and Immigration Courts nationwide.

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