How To Apply For A Returning Resident Visa?

Are you a United States Resident but have been living outside the US for more than a year (Permitted Validity Period)? Then, check out how you can apply for a Returning Resident Visa.

You must apply for a returning resident visa when you’re a US permanent resident or Green Card holder who has been away from the country for more than a year or more than the duration of a re-entry permit.

If you are a lawful permanent resident compelled to remain outside the country due to circumstances beyond your ability, you will be granted an SB-1 returning resident visa.

Your petition for returning resident status and, typically later, your request for an immigrant visa will require an interview. In addition, a medical test and proof of immigrant visa eligibility are prerequisites for SB-1 applicants. As a result, both visa processing charges and medical fees must be paid.

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Who is eligible for a returning resident visa?

To be eligible for a returning resident visa, you must demonstrate in your application how you meet the following requirements:

You were a legal permanent resident at the time you left the country.
You left the country with the idea of returning and haven’t given up on that goal.
You returned from a brief trip overseas, and if your time there was prolonged, it was because of circumstances beyond your control and without your fault.

How to apply for a returning resident visa?

Any US Embassy or Consulate is convenient for submitting your Returning Resident Immigrant Visa (SB-1) petition. Generally speaking, a petition must be submitted on your account with the appropriate USCIS center or Department of Homeland Security if you are outside the country for a longer time than the validity period of your Green Card or a re-entry permit (DHS).

However, if your request for a Returning Resident visa was submitted on time, the application that must be submitted on your behalf will no longer be required. For example, suppose you are the partner or child of a US armed forces soldier or a US government member who is deployed overseas for certain official duties. In that case, you do not require a Returning Resident Immigrant visa.

If your spouse or parent is returning to the US and you haven’t given up your legal permanent resident status, you may enter the country using your current Permanent Resident Card.

Required documents for a returning resident visa?

A Returning Resident Immigrant visa (SB-1) application requires the following forms and documents:

Fully and appropriately filled Type DS-117
Your Green Card, commonly known as your Permanent Resident Card
And any applicable re-entry permits.
Proof that the reason you’re staying away is uncontrollable
Details about the dates you will be travelling outside of the US
Desire to return
Evidence of connections to the United States

Lastly, suppose you are qualified for an immigrant visa and meet all the requirements for a returning resident visa. In that case, you must demonstrate your eligibility to the consular officer to receive a returning resident immigrant visa.

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