Out of country stay on GC

[vamshmet]

My parents have GC for almost 3 years and have been staying in US for most of the time.

They left recently due to family emergency and don't think they will be coming back within 6 months. I was reviewing some reviews online and it was mentioned that if they return within an year they don't have to file an extension and you are required to file an extension if they stay more than an year outside of US, is that true or is there any risk with not applying extension if they return before an year?

[JoeF]

If their home is not in the US, they could lose the GC with just one day abroad. If they have been mostly abroad they may already have lost the GC.

All stays abroad have to be temporary, with clear ending dates.

It is called "Permanent Residence" for a reason...

[vamshmet]

Thank you Joe for your reply?

Whats the process to apply for extension?

[cap-gap]

hmm..extension of what?

 

you might be talking about "Reentry Permit" that is applied by individuals before leaving the country for prolonged periods..it allows for up to two years of absence..but must be filed prior to leaving..

 

upto an year of absence may be pardoned at the port of entry with a valid reason...six months should not be issue, provided there were not too many such absences in the last few years..

[JoeF]

hmm..extension of what?

 

you might be talking about "Reentry Permit" that is applied by individuals before leaving the country for prolonged periods..it allows for up to two years of absence..but must be filed prior to leaving..

 

And there nowadays is biometric, which also has to be done while in the US.

 

To the OP: It is always a good idea to educate oneself about these things BEFORE traveling out of the country for a long trip.