Hey everyone,
I need some advice regarding my green card and applying for a reentry permit (Form I-131). Here’s my situation:
I received my green card in July 2023 and first traveled to the U.S. in September 2023.
I stayed for about a month, then returned to Germany in October 2023.
I went back to the U.S. in March 2024 for two weeks and then returned to Germany.
I visited the U.S. again in September 2024 for another two weeks and plan to return permanently in March 2025.
When I arrived in the U.S. on March 1, 2025, a CBP officer at the airport told me that I might lose my green card because of my long stays abroad. Every time I’ve been questioned, I told them I was in Germany visiting my fiancée—which is true—but I was also there to complete my master’s degree (which I will finish in May 2025).
Now that I’m in the U.S., I want to apply for a reentry permit to protect my green card while I complete my studies.
My main concern is how to present my reason in a way that increases my chances of approval. Would listing my master’s degree as the primary reason for my absences be a strong argument? Should I include other details, like my job search in the U.S.? Also, what documents should I submit to prove my intent to maintain U.S. residency?
I’d really appreciate any advice or experiences from anyone who has been in a similar situation.
Thanks in advance!