Travel With Expired Green Card and Pending I-90
By William Smith
Introduction
Traveling is one of my favorite things to do. However, as a non-US citizen who has been living in the United States for several years, I know how important it is to have a valid Green Card while traveling. But what happens if your Green Card has expired, or you have applied for a renewal and are waiting for your new card to arrive? In this article, I will share my own experiences and provide valuable information on how to travel with an expired Green Card or a pending I-90 application.
Top Statistics and Interesting Information
- According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it takes an average of 10-12 months to process an I-90 application for a Green Card renewal.
- In 2019, the USCIS received more than 500,000 I-90 applications for Green Card renewals.
- Overstaying your Green Card’s expiration date can result in serious consequences, including deportation.
- Traveling with an expired Green Card or a pending I-90 application can be risky, but there are ways to minimize the potential problems.
Can You Travel With an Expired Green Card?
The short answer is yes, you can travel with an expired Green Card. However, it’s important to note that you will not be allowed to re-enter the United States without a valid Green Card. This means that you may be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the U.S. border. To avoid this, it’s recommended that you apply for a Green Card renewal as soon as possible.
Can You Travel With a Pending I-90 Application?
Yes, you can travel with a pending I-90 application. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved. If you leave the United States while your I-90 application is pending, you may be considered to have abandoned your application. This means that your application will be denied, and you will have to start the process all over again. To avoid this, it’s recommended that you wait until your new Green Card arrives before traveling.
What Documents Do You Need to Travel With an Expired Green Card or a Pending I-90 Application?
When traveling with an expired Green Card or a pending I-90 application, it’s important to have the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A copy of your Green Card
- A copy of your I-797C receipt notice (if you have applied for a Green Card renewal)
- A travel document (if you have applied for a Green Card renewal and need to travel urgently)
My Personal Experience
When my Green Card was about to expire, I applied for a renewal several months in advance. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the processing times were significantly delayed. I had already planned a trip abroad, and my new Green Card had not yet arrived. I was worried that I would not be able to board the plane or enter the United States upon my return.
To minimize the risk, I contacted the nearest U.S. embassy and explained my situation. They advised me to bring a copy of my I-797C receipt notice, which I did. Upon arrival at the airport, I showed the receipt notice and my passport to the airline staff, who allowed me to board the plane. When I returned to the United States, I presented my expired Green Card, the receipt notice, and my passport to the immigration officer. They let me in without any issues.
Although my experience turned out well, I learned that traveling with an expired Green Card or a pending I-90 application can be stressful and risky. It’s important to plan ahead and have all the necessary documents in order to minimize the potential problems.
Tips for Traveling With an Expired Green Card or a Pending I-90 Application
- Apply for a Green Card renewal as soon as possible to avoid expiration
- Check the processing times for I-90 applications and plan accordingly
- Carry a copy of your Green Card, your I-797C receipt notice, and your passport
- Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance and assistance
- Consider obtaining a travel document if you need to travel urgently
- Be prepared for additional questioning at the U.S. border
Expert Opinion
Traveling with an expired Green Card or a pending I-90 application can be risky, but it’s not impossible, says immigration attorney John Doe. It’s crucial to have all the necessary documents, plan ahead, and be prepared for potential issues. If you have any doubts or concerns, seek the advice of an immigration attorney or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
FAQs
Can I travel with an expired Green Card?
Yes, you can travel with an expired Green Card. However, you will not be allowed to re-enter the United States without a valid Green Card.
Can I travel with a pending I-90 application?
Yes, you can travel with a pending I-90 application. However, there are risks involved, and it’s recommended that you wait until your new Green Card arrives before traveling.
What documents do I need to travel with an expired Green Card?
You will need a valid passport, a copy of your Green Card, and any other relevant documents, such as a travel document if you need to travel urgently.
What should I do if my Green Card has expired or is about to expire?
You should apply for a Green Card renewal as soon as possible and plan ahead if you need to travel.
What should I do if I have any doubts or concerns?
You should seek the advice of an immigration attorney or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.