Maintaining Strong Ties to the United States During Extended Travel
By: Immigration Attorney Osas Iyamu
Published: October 21, 2024
If you are a US permanent or conditional resident planning an extended stay outside of the United States, it is important to maintain ties to the US during extended travel to avoid jeopardizing your residency status. Maintaining ties to the US is crucial for demonstrating your commitment to US residency. USCIS and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers often evaluate whether green card holders have abandoned their US residency when they have been away for an extended period. To ensure you retain your status, it’s crucial to demonstrate ongoing ties to the United States during your time abroad. This guide offers practical ways to maintain those ties and protect your green card.
Why Is It Important to Maintain Ties to the US?
Maintaining ties to the United States is essential for proving your intent to continue living in the country and to demonstrate commitment to US residency. As a green card holder, your status depends on being a permanent resident of the United States. Extended absences can raise questions about whether you have abandoned your residency, which could lead to being found inadmissible upon reentry or losing your green card altogether. By keeping strong connections to the US, you can show that your intent is to return and remain a resident.
Practical Ways to Maintain Ties to the US (Keep Ties to the US)
Keep a US Address
Having a permanent US address is one of the most important ways to maintain and demonstrate ties to the US. Whether it’s your own property, a leased apartment, or even a family member’s address, make sure you maintain a US address as your primary residence.
You should continue to receive mail at this address, including utility bills, bank statements, and other official correspondence. This helps show that your primary residence is still in the US.
File US Tax Returns
Filing annual US tax returns is a strong indicator that you consider yourself a US resident. Permanent residents are required to report their worldwide income to the IRS, even if they are living abroad.
Staying compliant with tax obligations shows that you are fulfilling your duties as a US resident and demonstrates your intention to maintain residency.
Retain Employment or Business Ties
If possible, retain employment in the US while you are abroad. This could mean working remotely for a US-based employer or keeping your business operating in the United States.
If you cannot maintain employment in the US, consider other ways to show economic ties, such as having an investment or a business in the United States.
Maintain US Bank Accounts
Keeping active bank accounts in the US is another way to demonstrate financial ties to the country. Regularly use your US accounts for expenses, savings, or business transactions.
Having a US credit card and using it while abroad also indicates that you have ongoing financial connections to the US.
Spend Significant Time in the US Each Year
Try to spend as much time as possible in the US each year, even if you must travel abroad for extended periods. Spending at least part of each year in the US demonstrates your commitment to maintaining your residency.
Shorter, more frequent trips to the US are more favorable than being absent for one long period.
Retain Health Insurance in the US
Maintaining health insurance in the US indicates that you still consider the country your primary place of residence. Having US-based health insurance coverage shows that you plan to return and continue your life in the United States.
Keep Your Driver’s License or State ID Up-to-Date
Renewing your driver’s license or state ID card and keeping it valid is another way to demonstrate your ties to the US. A valid driver’s license can serve as proof of your ongoing connection to a particular state.
Stay Involved in US Community Activities
Stay involved in community organizations or clubs in the United States. Whether it’s a local church, social group, or volunteer organization, community involvement demonstrates that you have strong personal connections in the country.
Make Sure Family Ties Are Visible
If you have immediate family members living in the US, their presence can indicate your intention to return. Ensure you document your visits, financial support, and other ties to family members living in the United States.
Additional Tips
Keep Records: Retain documentation that supports your ties to the United States, such as tax returns, utility bills, bank statements, and travel records to keep ties to the US. This evidence can be valuable if you face questions about your residency status.
Consult an Immigration Attorney: If you are unsure whether your planned extended travel may impact your residency, consulting an immigration attorney can help you make informed decisions and take proactive steps to protect your status.
Safeguarding Your US Residency During Extended Travel
Maintaining strong ties to the United States during extended travel is essential for protecting your residency status as a green card holder. You can safeguard your green card and ensure your successful return by keeping a US address, staying compliant with tax obligations, maintaining financial connections, and demonstrating ongoing community and family involvement. If you have concerns or questions about maintaining your residency while traveling, contact immigration Attorney Osas Iyamu for guidance.
Need personalized guidance on maintaining your ties to the US during extended travel? ContactLaw Offices of Osas Iyamu, LLC today to protect your green card and residency status!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Always consult with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific situation.