Lawful Permanent Residents (“LPR”) are non-citizens who have been given a ‘green card.’ The green card enables them to live permanently in the United States (“U.S.”). LPRs, hence, after obtaining U.S. permanent residency, can enjoy several benefits. These, among other things, include taking up employment without restrictions, receiving financial assistance from the U.S. government, owning property, and even joining the armed forces of the USA. They can also become U.S. citizens, provided they meet certain requirements. Before deciding whether you want to become an LPR, you should learn more about your immigration options here.
Who can become LPRs?
The Immigration and Nationality Act (“INA”) has laid down several classes of people to give the LPR status. The most important of these are people who want to acquire that status to reunite with their family. Economic and humanitarian grounds are also considered while granting this status. Countries with a relatively low percentage of immigrants to the U.S. are also considered for this status. You can find details of the requirement on the Florida Immigration Law Counsel’s page. Here, you can also contact lawyers who can guide you through the entire process.
Can an LPR travel outside the U.S. as a permanent resident?
An LPR can travel outside the U.S. as a permanent resident. However, they will have to show their alien registration card when they re-enter the U.S. Also, the person must travel with an unexpired passport to another country. If an LPR returns to the U.S., from a trip or after a few years, they will be subject to the same admissibility standards as they were acquainted with when granted this status.
Can an LPR lose its permanent residence?
An LPR can lose their permanent residence if they act recklessly. For instance, if the LPR commits certain crimes, then they would face removal proceedings. Immediately after that, they will be deported to their previous country. The deportation lawyers at the Florida Immigration Law Counsel have successfully built strong cases to negate the mandate given by the U.S. government in the previous years.
Additionally, if the LPR remains outside the U.S. for more than six months, the authorities shall scrutinize if they plan on leaving their USA residency. It has been noticed that the absence of one year results in the presumption of that person leaving his U.S. residency. It might get challenging to debunk that presumption. The LPR, in such circumstances, can apply for a re-entry permit before they depart. This permit is valid for two years. While it does not guarantee a permanent residency, it can help establish a motive to reside permanently in the U.S., despite their absence.
What happens after the LPR’s green card expires?
The LPR should not have to worry about their green card expiring. All they have to do is apply for the renewal of the card. This must be done before six months of the expiration date. Also, the LPR will have to file Form I-90 while replacing the card.
While we have tried to lay down all information that you might want to know before you apply for this status, it is advised you get in touch with competent lawyers. They not only provide you the details but also streamline the process for you.