Travel Tips for Green Card Holders: The Importance of a Travel File

Traveling outside the United States as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) is generally permitted, but it is not without risk. Many green card holders are surprised to learn that reentry into the U.S. may be problematic and that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has broad authority to inspect and question green card holders upon their return to the US and issue Notices to Appear (NTA) in Immigration Court for Removal proceedings for abandonment of lawful permanent resident status (abandonment of LPR status).

For this reason, we often recommend that lawful permanent residents carry a “travel file” when traveling abroad. You never know how long you will have to remain abroad, and even if your trip is short, you may run into issues due to the frequency of your travels. There is a way to help avoid such issues.

A travel file is a collection of documents that can help demonstrate continued ties to the United States and lawful permanent residency in the United States, if questions arise during reentry. While it does not eliminate all risks, it can help demonstrate continued residency, reasons for your absences, and avoid unnecessary complications when returning to the United States.

Planning ahead and understanding the rules before traveling can help protect your lawful permanent resident status.

This article explains what a travel file is, what to include, and when it is especially important.

What is a Travel File?

A travel file is a small folder (either physical or digital) that contains key documents showing that a lawful permanent resident has maintained residence in the United States and intends to continue living here permanently.

Carrying a travel file does not guarantee entry into the U.S., but it can help answer questions efficiently and reduce delays or complications during inspection.

Why a Travel File Is Important for Green Card Holders

When returning to the United States, all travelers, including lawful permanent residents, are subject to inspection by CBP. Officers may ask questions about:

•          Length and purpose of travel abroad

•          Ties to the United States

•          Employment or residence

•          Prior immigration or criminal history

This scrutiny may increase if a green card holder has taken long trips abroad, travels frequently, or has had prior immigration issues.

It is also important to understand that CBP retains discretion at the port of entry and may refer travelers to secondary inspection for further questioning, regardless of immigration status.

Trips Longer Than 6 Months: Why Caution Is Needed

Trips outside the United States lasting more than six months are generally not recommended for lawful permanent residents unless absolutely necessary. Extra preparation is highly recommended for these trips.

Extended absences can raise questions about whether the individual has abandoned their permanent residence, even if the green card remains valid. The longer the absence, the greater the scrutiny upon return.

A travel file becomes especially important after longer trips.

What to Include in a Travel File

A well-prepared travel file may include copies of the following:

Identification & Immigration Documents

•          Valid passport

•          Permanent Resident Card (green card)

•          Reentry permit (if applicable)

Proof of U.S. Residence

•          Lease or mortgage statements

•          Utility bills

•          Driver’s license or state ID

Proof of Employment or Financial Ties

•          Employment verification letter

•          Recent pay stubs

•          Tax returns or W-2s

•          US bank account statements

•          Credit card statements

Travel Documentation

•          Flight itineraries

•          Evidence explaining the reason for extended travel (medical records, family emergencies, etc.)

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

•          Court records or certified dispositions

•          USCIS receipts or notices

•          Evidence of family ties in the U.S.

•          Various subscriptions, e.g., Amazon, Costco card, store cards, etc.

Documents may be carried in paper form or stored securely on a mobile device.

Who Should Be Especially Careful When Traveling

Carrying a travel file is recommended for all LPRs, but it is especially important for those who:

•          Have taken trips abroad longer than 6 months

•          Travel internationally frequently, even if your trips last less than 6 months

•          Have a pending immigration application

•          Have prior immigration violations

•          Have any criminal history

•          Are close to applying for U.S. citizenship

A Note About Travel and Discretion

Even with a valid green card and a complete travel file, the CBP officers have authority to inspect and question. If the CBP officer concludes that there is sufficient information to believe that you abandoned your permanent residency in the United States, the officer may keep your green card, issue a temporary stamp in your passport evidencing your permanent residency, and issue a Notice to Appear in immigration court where you will have to demonstrate that despite all of the evidence that the CBP gathered or the length or frequency of your absences, you did not abandon your intent to permanent reside in the United States.

See also this article: Don’t Risk Losing Your Green Card: What You Should Know About Reentry Permit