Pennsylvania Re-Entry Permits Attorney Helping Clients Navigate International Travel

If you're planning international travel and need help with re‑entry permits, it can feel confusing and stressful. We’re here to simplify the process and support you every step—so you can focus on your journey with confidence. GET HELP HERE

Immigrating can open up new doors of opportunity and connect you to new places and people, but what happens if you want to return to your home country for a while or want to explore what else the world has to offer? Lengthy international travel can get complicated for a Green Card holder, but a re-entry permit can make it easier. Learn more about this important document below.

If you’re planning on traveling outside of the United States and need a re-entry permit, our team can help ensure that you’ve filed for and been granted the proper documents. We can help you understand when you need to file for a re-entry permit and what the requirements are for this form. If you have questions about your re-entry permit application, contact our firm today.

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1 Pennsylvania Re-Entry Permits Attorney Helping Clients Navigate International Travel

1.1 What Is a Re-Entry Permit?

1.2 What Are the Requirements to Apply for a Re-Entry Permit?

1.3 How Long Can I Stay Out of the Country With a Re-Entry Permit?

1.4 How Long Does It Take to Process a Re-Entry Permit?

1.5 What Happens If My Re-Entry Permit Is Denied?

1.6 Engage an Experienced Immigration Attorney Today!

1.7 Re-Entry Permits FAQ

What Is a Re-Entry Permit?

A re-entry permit is a type of travel document that indicates that you are going to be traveling outside of the country for an extended period of time but that you aren’t planning on giving up your status within the United States.

Under normal circumstances, your lawful permanent resident status expires if you are outside of the United States for a year or more or if you establish residency in another country. A re-entry permit keeps your Permanent Resident Card from expiring and keeps you from having to get a returning resident visa.

What Are the Requirements to Apply for a Re-Entry Permit?

To apply for a re-entry permit, you must have lawful permanent resident status within the United States, which means that you are a Green Card holder. The application process involves filling out Form I-131 with the Department of Homeland Security through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office.

This form is called an Application for a Travel Document. It requires you to fill out your basic information, including residency status, and provide details on when you are planning on leaving the country and how long you will be gone. You will also need to provide information on the purpose of the trip and which countries you will be visiting.

How Long Can I Stay Out of the Country With a Re-Entry Permit?

Most re-entry permits are good for two years from the date of issuance. This means that if you leave on the same day, the maximum amount of time you could be out of the country would be just less than two years. However, people don’t necessarily start traveling that day, so it’s important to time your trip so that you will return before the re-entry permit expires. Re-entry permits are not renewable, and you have to apply for a new permit if yours expires.

You must also be physically in the United States when you apply for a re-entry permit. This means that you may have to return to the United States to apply for and get a re-entry permit to finish your travel if you need to be gone longer.

How Long Does It Take to Process a Re-Entry Permit?

Re-entry permits are processed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, which is known for having long wait times for reviewing documents. A re-entry permit can take up to 12 months to be processed, but most are approved within 3 to 7 months, which means you’ll need to plan for one well in advance of your trip. Keep in mind, however, if you are going to be gone for less than one year and don’t plan on establishing residency in another country during that time, a re-entry permit isn’t required.

What Happens If My Re-Entry Permit Is Denied?

It’s important to remember that a re-entry permit requires an application process, which means there is always the chance that it could be denied. Most re-entry denials happen because the permit application wasn’t filled out correctly, didn’t have the appropriate accompanying documents, or the person didn’t pay the fee.

For example, if you don’t provide a specific reason for your trip and your itinerary of countries, your re-entry permit could be denied. Re-entry permit applications may also be denied if you already have a valid permit because the process for getting a replacement permit is slightly different from applying for a new one.

You do have the option to appeal your denial, but it’s also possible to reapply. Keep in mind that reapplying also restarts the clock on how long it takes to process and approve the application, which could affect your travel plans. If you receive a notice of denial, it’s a good idea to speak with an immigration attorney who can help you understand exactly why you were denied and what your options are.

    
 
 
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Engage an Experienced Immigration Attorney Today!

Re-entry permits can make it easier to travel internationally or enjoy a longer visit in your home country without worrying about being admitted back into the United States.

If you’re a lawful permanent resident who is planning to be outside of the United States for an extended period of time, contact The Law Office of Rosina C. Stambaugh at 717-900-1818 to find out more about re-entry permits and how to get the process started.

Re-Entry Permits FAQ

Possibly. Lawful permanent residents planning extended international travel may benefit from a re-entry permit to help demonstrate they do not intend to abandon permanent resident status while outside the United States.

No. Applicants generally must be physically present in the United States when filing Form I-131 for a re-entry permit and when completing biometrics appointments.

No. A re-entry permit helps demonstrate your intent to maintain permanent residency, but Customs and Border Protection officers still determine admissibility when you return to the United States.

Yes. Spending long periods outside the United States without proper documentation or evidence of continued ties to the country may create concerns about abandonment of permanent residency.

Travelers should typically carry their valid passport, green card, and approved re-entry permit when returning to the United States after extended international travel.

Re-entry permits may be requested again in the future, but approval is not automatic. Frequent or lengthy trips abroad may receive additional scrutiny from immigration authorities.

Possibly. Long absences outside the United States may interrupt continuous residence requirements for naturalization and could delay eligibility for U.S. citizenship.

Yes. Conditional permanent residents may also apply for re-entry permits if they expect to remain outside the United States for extended periods of time.

If your re-entry permit expires while you are outside the United States, returning may become more difficult and immigration officers may question whether you abandoned permanent resident status.

An immigration lawyer can help prepare Form I-131, explain travel risks, gather supporting documentation, and address concerns about maintaining lawful permanent resident status during extended international travel.

Need help applying for a re-entry permit?

Contact Our Office Today