Filing for I-751 while out of the country

[Jon & Jess 3]

Hi, I have a bit of a dilemma and I need some help.

My husband and I are going to Sweden in November. But November is also when the 90 day time frame for filing the I-751 starts. This was the only time I can get off of work.

So my question is, can I file the papers and then leave for Sweden for two weeks?

Or should I wait until we get back?

I know that I was not allowed to leave the country during my Green Card application. Would this be considered the same thing?

Thank you so much for your help!

[v333k 59]

Hi, I have a bit of a dilemma and I need some help.

My husband and I are going to Sweden in November. But November is also when the 90 day time frame for filing the I-751 starts. This was the only time I can get off of work.

So my question is, can I file the papers and then leave for Sweden for two weeks?

Or should I wait until we get back?

I know that I was not allowed to leave the country during my Green Card application. Would this be considered the same thing?

Thank you so much for your help!

I was in a similar situation as you are now, and my wife and I decided to file after we came back. As long as you file within the 90 day window, you are all set and there is nothing to worry about. Actually, I mailed in the package 1 month before my GC expired, which is when we returned from out trip.

It is your call!

[MrsSkull 0]

You can file before you leave, but you will need to be in the country for your biometrics appointment and possible interview. Also, once you send in the application, USCIS will send you a notice that extends your status for one year. You will need that notice along with your green card to enter the county if you return to the USA after your green card expires. If you plan to go to Sweden for only a little while and you will be back before the card expires, you could apply then. I would apply before my holiday but would wait until after I receive my notice of extension to buy tickets/leave the country because you never know how long it will take to get it. Keep in mind that biometrics happens approx. one month after you apply so you'll want to be around for that. I got an appointment for when I was going to be out of the country so I submitted for reschedule and that was fine too.