temporary green card and ability to travel outside of USA

[Girl777 2]

Hi Everyone,

 

I am at the end of my process. just pending interview in Montreal consulate to get visa issued. Does anyone know , upon arrival to US and presenting all the documents, my understanding is that I am given right away temporary green card and the actual card comes few weeks/months later. Do you know if I can leave US to go to Canada right away for visits to parent my child who decided to live with his dad  and not move with me  ? It is important for me to not stuck in US for weeks or months upon arrival and have ability to travel back and forth right away. I was given two conflicting advises, one saying yes I can, the other saying I better wait for my actual green card that comes by mail ( I am not talking about spending more than 6 month in Canada, just visits).

[Crazy Cat 41,984]

Upon entry into the US with a valid immigrant visa, your passport will be stamped by CBP to endorse the visa.  At that point, you are a legal resident.  Your endorsed visa becomes a temporary Green card until the plastic one arrives (or up to a year from date of entry).  You can IMMEDIATELY exit and re-enter the US later using your stamped passport.

[mam521 2,111]

2 hours ago, Crazy Cat said:

Upon entry into the US with a valid immigrant visa, your passport will be stamped by CBP to endorse the visa.  At that point, you are a legal resident.  Your endorsed visa becomes a temporary Green card until the plastic one arrives (or up to a year from date of entry).  You can IMMEDIATELY exit and re-enter the US later using your stamped passport.

This.  Just make sure you pay the greencard fee so your actual greencard will be issued and mailed out.  

[powerpuff 6,744]

*** Topic moved from CR1/IR1 process forum to Working & Traveling during US immigration as the question is about traveling post CR1 process ***

[Skyyy 7]

On 3/18/2024 at 6:36 PM, Crazy Cat said:

Upon entry into the US with a valid immigrant visa, your passport will be stamped by CBP to endorse the visa.  At that point, you are a legal resident.  Your endorsed visa becomes a temporary Green card until the plastic one arrives (or up to a year from date of entry).  You can IMMEDIATELY exit and re-enter the US later using your stamped passport.

No need to get an approval from somewhere or inform anyone (like uscis) right? 

[Crazy Cat 41,984]

4 minutes ago, Skyyy said:

No need to get an approval from somewhere or inform anyone (like uscis) right? 

Correct.