Parents green card holder wants to go back to Philippines

[brendon1101rebz 0]

So I petitoned my parents and they arrived in US 2014, they've been here for 3 years now and still doesn't enjoy living here. They want to go back to Phillipines and stay there for 6 months,  come back here and stay for a month or 2 then head back to Philippines.  I'm worried that if they'll do that,  it'll trigger abandonment of LPR status. Also, is there any way to change green card status to tourist visa instead?? 

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

   Many older people aren't happy leaving where they grew up and all their friends.  You can turn in the green card and apply for a visitors visa. It isn't automatic that you will get one , but it is usually given.

[geowrian 22,337]

Their plan would mean they are not living in the US as a permanent resident, as is required for a green card. Your concern is correct.

 

If they plan to live abroad and visit the US, a tourist visa is the route to go. There is no "change" from LPR status to tourist visa. They would need to abandon their green card (form I-407) then apply for a tourist visa.

 

Another option is to wait it out for the 5 year mark, apply for citizenship, get that, then return to PH. However, it would mean another 2-3 living in the US still.

Edited June 4, 2017 by geowrian