27/12/2025
Urgent information for U.S. Green Card holders. There are reports of new, stricter checks on Green Card travel starting December 26. These changes could affect how easily you are allowed back into the United States and, in serious situations, could even put your permanent resident status at risk.
Green Card holders who stay outside the U.S. for more than 90 days may now face intense questioning when they return. This is stricter than before, when longer trips often raised fewer concerns. Even if your trips are short, traveling outside the country very often and spending a lot of total time abroad may also raise red flags.
When re-entering the U.S., some travelers may be questioned in detail. Officers may ask you to prove that the United States is still your main home. If they believe you no longer live permanently in the U.S., your Green Card could be taken for further review.
U.S. government agencies are also said to be sharing information more closely. Immigration, border officers, tax authorities, and Social Security may compare records. Things like not filing U.S. taxes as a resident or having weak ties to the U.S. could cause problems.
To stay safe, try to keep your trips outside the U.S. short and avoid staying away for long periods. If you must be outside the country for an extended time, apply for a re-entry permit before you leave. Make sure you keep strong ties to the U.S., such as a U.S. address, bank accounts, driver’s license, work or business connections, and always file your taxes as a U.S. resident.
When you travel, carry documents that show the U.S. is still your permanent home. If you qualify, applying for U.S. citizenship, it can remove these travel worries completely.
Please share this message with other Green Card holders so they can stay informed and protect their status.