Vietnam
Hong Kong
TaiwanThe residence rule
Green card holders must make the US their main residence. Long absences may be treated as abandoning permanent residence.
Absence and risk
| Time away | Generally |
|---|---|
| Under six months | Usually little impact |
| Six months to a year | You may be questioned about your residence |
| A year or more | Returning on a green card alone is generally difficult without a re-entry permit |
What is a re-entry permit?
A re-entry permit lets a green card holder who expects to be away for a long time apply in advance, showing they don’t intend to give up permanent residence.
When is it useful?
- Handling business or caring for family overseas for an extended period
- Children studying in the US while parents still work in Asia
Applying
- File before leaving the US
- Complete biometrics as required
- Once approved, re-enter on the permit within its validity
It doesn’t allow indefinite absence — the US must still be your main residence when you return.
Effect on citizenship
Long absences can also affect the continuous residence calculation for citizenship, so plan both together.