ECNETNews, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Mar. 28, 2025: A pressing concern among immigrant communities is the critical question: ‘If I have a Green Card, can I still travel outside the U.S. and return without complications?’
The answer is becoming increasingly complicated. For many Legal Permanent Residents (LPRs) or Green Card holders, the long-standing assumption of safety and security is being challenged, especially in light of ongoing immigration enforcement policies that remain in effect since previous administrations.
Consider the case of a German-born Green Card holder living in New Hampshire who experienced alarming treatment upon his return from Luxembourg. The individual, who has held LPR status since 2008, was reportedly subjected to a disturbing level of scrutiny and interrogation at Boston’s Logan Airport.
Currently in ICE detention, this individual finds himself in a precarious situation. Despite a previous minor marijuana-related charge from 2015 that had already been resolved, this single infraction seems to have triggered a significant response upon his reentry into the U.S.
As noted by an immigration service leader, any prior legal issues are now causing Green Card holders to be flagged when entering the country. This reflects a broader trend in which immigration policy is increasingly applied to those with legal status. During past administrations, policies impacting residents were notably altered, leading to stricter enforcement against those with any legal history, even minor misdemeanors.
Additionally, the duration of time spent outside the U.S. is under greater scrutiny than ever before. Experts advise Green Card holders to remain cautious about the six-month rule; being outside the U.S. for more than 180 consecutive days can be interpreted as abandonment of residency.
U.S. immigration law stipulates that absences over six months render a Green Card holder subject to questioning about their ties to the U.S. Border officers have the authority to probe not only travel details but also the individual’s connection to the country.
Consequently, the responsibility falls on Green Card holders to demonstrate their ties to America, necessitating documentation such as tax records, U.S. bank accounts, property ownership, job stability, and even a valid driver’s license—factors that could influence whether they are permitted entry or face detention.
With more than 60 grounds for inadmissibility specified in the Immigration and Nationality Act, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are rigorously applying these rules to returning LPRs.
Recent comments from a Department of Homeland Security official highlight the relentless enforcement of immigration laws, emphasizing that violations will result in processing and potential removal from the country.
What can Green Card holders do to safeguard their status? Here’s a quick checklist:
- Avoid any criminal charges—minor infractions can lead to removal proceedings.
- Ensure timely renewal of your Green Card—while status continues, complications can arise with an expired card.
- Limit time spent outside the U.S.—lengthy or repeated trips may be construed as abandoning your residency.
- Maintain strong connections to the U.S.—ownership of property, U.S. bank accounts, stable employment, and tax payments are crucial.
- File taxes as a resident—incorrect filing can prompt inquiries regarding your intent to reside permanently.
The reality is that holding a Green Card no longer guarantees safety or stability, particularly for marginalized communities. Legal Permanent Residents must remain vigilant, informed, and prepared, as traveling abroad could pose risks that are no longer worth taking.
