My Green Card Expired While Outside the U.S.

Your “green card” or lawful permanent resident card is valid for 2 or 10 years. Whether you’re able to renew your card, obtain a different travel document while abroad or need to reapply for permanent residence altogether depends on various factors detailed below.

Your Green Card was Valid for 2 Years

If you were issued a two year green card and this card expired while you were outside the U.S., you likely will not be able to immediately reenter the U.S. unless the following applies:

1. You properly filed Form I-751 prior to the expiration of your card; and
2. You have in possession a copy or original of the I-797C Receipt Notice for said I-751 petition.

If you departed the U.S. without filing the I-751 petition and your 2-year green card expired while abroad, you should speak with an immigration attorney to determine your options.

For more information about filing Form I-751, read our post here: Removing Conditions on Your 2-Year Green Card.

Your Green Card was Valid for 10 Years

Generally, your lawful permanent resident status is not impacted by an expired card. The card is proof of your status but does not determine your status. However, depending on circumstances, you may face difficulties reentering the U.S.

Your 10 Year Green Card Expired and You Have a Reentry Permit

You’ve traveled abroad for over one year but prior to your departure from the U.S. you obtained a reentry permit. So long as your reentry permit is still valid, you should be allowed to return to the U.S. with your expired card.

If your reentry permit is also expired, depending on how long it’s been and when your green card expired, you may still be able to return to the U.S. You should speak with an immigration attorney about your next steps before making travel plans.

Keep in mind that your experience at the airport is highly dictated by the discretion of CBP. Procedures may also differ by country and airport. Before boarding your plane, you should check with the local embassy and/or airport.

Your 10 Year Green Card Expired and You’ve Been Abroad for Less Than 1 Year

Again, your card is proof of your status and does not determine your status. Just because your card has expired does not mean your status has expired. That said, CBP is reluctant to allow passengers board without proper documentation. If your 10-year green card recently expired and your trip was less than one year, you will likely be able to board your plane, however you should anticipate questioning from CBP.

Your 10 Year Green Card Expired and You’ve Been Abroad for More Than 1 Year

An expired green card outside the U.S. during a trip that is longer than one year is a different story. Your options will highly depend on the reason for your extended stay. It may be determined that your permanent resident status is abandoned.

Of course, life happens and perhaps you’ve been outside the U.S. far longer than initially anticipated through circumstances outside your control. You may be eligible for the SB-1 Returning Resident visa. If this is the case, you should consult with an immigration attorney to determine your eligibility.

Renewing Your Green Card

Renewing your green card requires filing Form I-90 with the USCIS. You may not renew your card while outside the U.S.

This is also a lengthy process, so we recommend filing for the renewal at least 6 months prior to the expiration of your green card.

Conclusion

The good news is that an expired card does not necessarily result in abandonment or revocation of status. However, if your card has expired you should seek advice from an immigration attorney immediately so that you don’t face more serious consequences.