US Supreme Court Ruling: International Travel May Now Jeopardize Your Green Card

The US Supreme Court has issued a ruling that could put green card holders at risk of losing their permanent resident status if they travel abroad for extended periods. The decision allows immigration authorities to consider lengthy international trips as evidence of abandoning US residency.

Under the ruling, green card holders who spend more than six months outside the United States may face increased scrutiny when applying for reentry or renewing their cards. Immigration officers can now use extended travel as a factor in determining whether a person has relinquished their intent to live permanently in the US.

The case stems from a dispute involving a green card holder who had lived abroad for several years while maintaining US ties. The court sided with the government's position that prolonged absence can indicate abandonment of residency, even if the individual retains property or family connections in the US.

Legal experts advise green card holders to limit international trips to under six months and to maintain strong evidence of US ties, such as employment, tax filings, and a primary residence. Those planning extended stays overseas should consider applying for a reentry permit before departing.