Can I go back to my country for some time?

[Blizknight 8]

Once I get my green card and everything, is there the possibility to go back to my country for some time and finish some business? if so how long can I stay out of the US? or if there is any restriction ?

Thank you so much!

[Hypnos 6,578]

In general terms, a green card holder can remain outside of the US for up to six months without issue. Overseas trips of between six and twelve months may require you to show proof to CBP upon re-entry that you have not abandoned your residency (you've maintained a US bank account, residence, paid federal income taxes, etc.), and trips of between one and two years require you to obtain a re-entry permit in advance, plus you may need to show CBP the same proof of non-abandonment.

Edited March 19, 2014 by Hypnos

[QueenComley 295]

My immigration Attorney said I can only leave the United States for a max of 6 months

Edited March 19, 2014 by QueenComley

[nightingalejules 678]

My immigration Attorney said I can only leave the United States for a max of 6 months

It makes sense that an attorney would say that. It is the simplest rule with the least likelihood of the client messing it up and blaming the lawyer.

[Hypnos 6,578]

My immigration Attorney said I can only leave the United States for a max of 6 months

He was wrong, unless he meant before your green was issued, in which case it's probably good advice.

Edited March 20, 2014 by Hypnos

[Blizknight 8]

Lets say I'm in the 5th month, if I go back to the states for one week and then return, then can I count another 6 months from there?

[sidp69 1]

Do i have to stay in the US until i receive my GC or can i come to the US on my immigrant visa, then apply for my GC then go back for 2-3 weeks.

Thank you all.

[Hypnos 6,578]

.

Edited March 20, 2014 by Hypnos

[Hypnos 6,578]

Lets say I'm in the 5th month, if I go back to the states for one week and then return, then can I count another 6 months from there?

It won't "reset" in the manner you describe, and the more CBP notice you doing things like this, the more likely they will be to ask for proof that you have not abandoned your residency.

Do i have to stay in the US until i receive my GC or can i come to the US on my immigrant visa, then apply for my GC then go back for 2-3 weeks.

Sure, people do this all the time.

[sidp69 1]

Sure, people do this all the time.

Do you know the procedure for this? or any US government website?

[Hypnos 6,578]

Upon endorsement by CBP your immigrant visa serves as temporary proof of a green card for up to one year. People will sometimes enter, "activate" their immigrant visa and then turn around and leave the same day or shortly after to tie up loose ends in their home country before re-entering the US again in a few days / weeks.

[sidp69 1]

Upon endorsement by CBP your immigrant visa serves as temporary proof of a green card for up to one year. People will sometimes enter, "activate" their immigrant visa and then turn around and leave the same day or shortly after to tie up loose ends in their home country before re-entering the US again in a few days / weeks.

I am thinking of doing the same, as i dont want to tie up all loose ends then have issues at the POE. Once approved by the US embassy, is there any chances of the POE causing issues?

[Hypnos 6,578]

No.