Now that U.S. "Lawful Permanent Resident" (LPR) status has been achieved, it is important to be careful to meet the requirements to maintain that status - until you become a US citizen or until decide to relinquish your status. If you follow appropriate guidelines, US LPR status can be maintain relatively easily for the rest of your life.

It is important for example to avoid remaining outside of the United States in excess of 6 continuous months, because at that point you may be deemed to have abandoned your US LPR status. Even for lesser but extended regular absences, there may be risks if you do not maintain proper "indicia of residence" in the United States, such as a residence address, payment of U.S. taxes (which is mandatory), and other evidence of permanent residence. If you hold concurrent permanent resident status in another jurisdiction, US CBP may request that you choose one or the other before being re-admitted to the United States in LPR status.

If an extended temporary absence from the United States is anticipated, applying for a 2 year "Re-Entry Permit" may be appropriate.

For more information about maintaining US LPR status in your circumstances and to arrange a consultation, please visit our Getting Started page and complete our free on-line questionnaire.