Some questions about my rights with the 10 year card...

[Krikit 1,164]

Yes, you can stay outside the US up to one year. If you would like to stay outside the US for one year or longer you need to apply for a re-entry permit. Link to CBP FAQ

[lucyrich 20]

Yes, you can stay outside the US up to one year. If you would like to stay outside the US for one year or longer you need to apply for a re-entry permit. Link to CBP FAQ

It's true that it's possible to maintain residence as you say, but it's also possible to abandon LPR status in a shorter trip. It depends on where your "residence" is, and that's something that depends on a lot of specific facts of the case. So a green card holder is not automatically safe leaving the US for less than a year and returning on that green card.

From the USCIS "Maintaining your Permanent Residence" page:

You may be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status if you:

* Move to another country intending to live there permanently

* Remain outside of the United States for more than 1 year without obtaining a reentry permit or returning resident visa. However, in determining whether your status has been abandoned, any length of absence from the United States may be considered, even if less than 1 year

* Remain outside of the United States for more than 2 years after issuance of a reentry permit without obtaining a returning resident visa. However, in determining whether your status has been abandoned any length of absence from the United States may be considered, even if less than 1 year

* Fail to file income tax returns while living outside of the United States for any period

* Declare yourself a “nonimmigrant” on your tax returns

If you do intend to leave for an extended time while trying to maintain your permanent residence, at least be sure and file your US taxes. It's probably worth a quick consultation with an immigration attorney who has experience with abandonment of status issues, to get advice BEFORE you leave.

[Jolibee76 1]

I've been defintely filing my taxes since 2006 when i moved here. I am looking into citizenship as i am allowed to apply this May.. this is the only better option not to be always worried how long i got to be away for.. inwhich depends on how many times my hubby has to go to afghanstain/deployment.

Thanks for all your help and insight into the matter guys. Greatly appreciated

Cheers

Carolyn