Can You Travel While Waiting on Your Removal of Conditions?

Navigating the immigration process is a journey full of questions, especially when it comes to making important decisions that affect your daily life. One common question couples face is whether it’s safe to travel internationally while waiting for their removal of conditions application to be processed. For many, this process brings not only the excitement of the next chapter in your life together but also concerns about maintaining your status and avoiding any complications. Understanding what your current documents mean for travel—and the possible risks—can make this waiting period feel a little less overwhelming.

Can You Legally Travel with a Pending Removal of Conditions?

When you submit your removal of conditions application, you’ll receive a receipt notice from USCIS. This notice serves as an extension, granting you four additional years on your green card’s validity while you wait for your case’s decision. Together with your expired two-year green card, this extension notice legally allows you to travel internationally. It’s essentially proof that your green card status remains active and valid.

Potential Risks of Traveling While Your Case is Pending

While traveling is legally permissible, it’s important to be aware of potential risks that could affect reentry into the United States. If you have a criminal history or complex immigration history, there is a slight chance that USCIS could deny your removal of conditions application while you’re abroad. In these rare cases, being outside of the U.S. could make it more challenging to return. Consulting an immigration attorney if you have any concerns is always a wise step before making travel plans.

Remember Your Green Card Residency Requirements

As a green card holder, remember that lengthy trips abroad can impact your status. USCIS requires green card holders to maintain physical presence in the United States. Trips over six months or, especially, over a year could raise questions about your intent to remain a U.S. resident and could risk abandonment of your green card status. Keeping travel within a shorter timeframe can protect your residency. Traveling while your removal of conditions is pending can be a smooth process as long as you understand the guidelines and risks. Keeping informed and prepared will give you the peace of mind to make the best choices for you and your partner.