Returning U.S. Residents
If you are an immigrant visa card holder (green card holder) who has been outside the US for more than one year, or beyond the validity of a re-entry permit, you will require a new visa to enter the U.S. and resume permanent residence. If you were unable to return to the United States for reasons beyond your control, you may be eligible for a special immigrant Returning Resident (SB-1) visa under limited circumstances. Please email visanassau@state.gov to set up an appointment. Bring your passport and green card, and any documents that will help you to establish that your long stay outside the United States was caused by reasons beyond your control and for which you are not responsible. Also bring proof of your ties to the U.S. and documents that will help you establish your intent to return to the U.S.
Exception for Military and U.S. Government Employees
The one-year time limitation does not apply to the spouse or child of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, or of a civilian employee of the U.S. Government stationed abroad pursuant to official orders. In this case, the spouse or child must present the card mentioned above, not have relinquished residence, and be preceding or accompanying the member or employee, or be following to join the member or employee in the United States within four months of the return of the member or employee.
More information about Returning Resident Status can be found on the Department of State’s Returning Resident website.
Additional information for Lawful Permanent Residents can be found on the USCIS website.