Maintain Your Permanent Residency: A Guide to Protecting Yourself from Deportation

As a permanent resident of the United States, you have the right to live and work in the country indefinitely. However, this privilege comes with certain responsibilities, one of which is maintaining your permanent residency status. Failure to do so can result in deportation and the loss of all the benefits and opportunities that come with being a permanent resident. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to ensure the protection of your permanent residency.

What is Permanent Residency?

Permanent residency, also known as a green card, is a legal status that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the United States permanently. It is a pathway to citizenship and offers numerous benefits, including the right to work, access to education and healthcare, and the ability to sponsor family members for permanent residency.

Why is it Important to Maintain Your Permanent Residency?

Maintaining your permanent residency is crucial because it is the foundation for your life in the United States. It is your proof of legal status and allows you to enjoy all the benefits and opportunities that come with living in the country. Failure to maintain your permanent residency can result in deportation, which can have severe consequences for you and your family.

How to Maintain Your Permanent Residency?

1. Regularly Reside in the United States

The most crucial step in maintaining your permanent residency is to regularly reside in the United States. This means that you should not be absent from the country for extended periods. If you need to travel outside of the country for more than six months, it is best to apply for a re-entry permit from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A re-entry permit allows you to stay outside of the country for up to two years without losing your permanent residency status. It acts as a safeguard against any issues that may arise when you try to re-enter the country after an extended absence.

2. Avoid Extended Absences

While a re-entry permit can protect your permanent residency status, it is essential to avoid extended absences from the United States. If you spend more than six months outside of the country without a re-entry permit, you may be deemed to have abandoned your permanent residency. This can result in the revocation of your green card and make it challenging to re-enter the country.

3. File Taxes and Pay Taxes

As a permanent resident, you are required to file taxes and pay taxes on all income earned in the United States. This includes income from employment, business, and investments. Failure to file taxes or pay taxes can result in the revocation of your permanent residency status.

4. Keep Your Address Updated

It is essential to keep your address updated with the USCIS at all times. This is because the USCIS may need to contact you regarding your permanent residency status, and failure to receive these notifications can result in issues with your status. You can update your address online through the USCIS website.

5. Avoid Criminal Activity

Engaging in criminal activity can have severe consequences for your permanent residency status. Any criminal convictions, even for minor offenses, can result in deportation. It is crucial to abide by all laws and regulations to maintain your permanent residency.

What to Do if You Need to Live Outside of the United States for an Extended Period?

If you need to live outside of the United States for an extended period, you may want to consider applying for a returning resident visa before leaving. This visa allows you to re-enter the country as a permanent resident after an extended absence. However, you must meet specific requirements, such as maintaining your permanent residency status, having a valid reason for your absence, and not abandoning your permanent residency.

Conclusion

Maintaining your permanent residency is crucial for protecting yourself from deportation and enjoying all the benefits and opportunities that come with being a permanent resident of the United States. By regularly residing in the country, avoiding extended absences, filing and paying taxes, keeping your address updated, and avoiding criminal activity, you can ensure the protection of your permanent residency status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I lose my permanent residency if I am outside of the country for more than six months? A: Yes, if you are outside of the country for more than six months without a re-entry permit, you may be deemed to have abandoned your permanent residency. Q: Can I travel outside of the country while my green card application is pending? A: Yes, you can travel outside of the country while your green card application is pending. However, you must have a valid travel document, such as a valid passport and visa. Q: Can I apply for citizenship if I have lost my permanent residency? A: No, if you have lost your permanent residency, you must first apply to have it reinstated before you can apply for citizenship. Q: Can I sponsor family members for permanent residency if I have lost my permanent residency? A: No, if you have lost your permanent residency, you cannot sponsor family members for permanent residency. You must first apply to have your permanent residency reinstated.