COVID-19 has impacted many things we took for granted for decades as it reverberates through every corner of the world and disrupts every aspect of our lives. Green card holders (lawful permanent residents, or LPRs) overseas who plan to come back to the United States will not only have to deal with health concerns associated with international travel, but also many practical and economic inconveniences caused by the imposition of significant governmental restrictions in many regions of the world. As a result, many are forced to stay overseas for a protracted period. This presents a unique challenge when it comes to maintaining their permanent resident status.

Upon each entry into the United States, an LPR is required to present a valid green card and show that he is “returning to an unrelinquished lawful permanent residence after a temporary visit abroad.” If the absence is less than a year but more than 180 days, the LPR will be subject to more scrutiny at the port of entry. If it can be shown that the absence was caused by COVID-19 restrictions, the LPR will likely be admitted into the United States.