---
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# The Returning Resident Visa: What You Need to Know
Are you a permanent resident in the US and stuck abroad due to circumstances out of your control? As a lawful or conditional permanent resident of the United States, you can not remain outside the US for more than a year or beyond the validity of your re-entry permit. However, if you were unable to return to the US within your authorized period due to certain unavoidable circumstances, you may be eligible for a Returning Resident Visa, also known as the SB-1 Immigrant Visa.
Only spouses and children of members of the US Armed Forces or civilian employees of the US government stationed abroad are exempt from the one-year limitation. They can use their Green Card ([Permanent Resident Card](https://www.myvisasource.com/usa-immigration/permanent-residence-green-card/)) to enter the US even if it has expired. They will not need a Returning Resident Visa as long as:
- They have not abandoned their status as a lawful permanent resident
- The spouse or parent is accompanying them
[Back to My Visa Source’s Immigration Resource Topics](https://www.myvisasource.com/resources/)
## **Who Can Qualify for the Returning Resident Visa?**
Only those who can demonstrate the following to the US Consulate can qualify for a Returning Resident Visa:
- Had a valid status as a lawful permanent resident of the US at the time of departure
- Departed from the US to return and have not abandoned their permanent residence
- Are returning to the US after a temporary visit abroad and the stay was extended due to reasons beyond their control
It is best to contact the US Consulate or Embassy for a Returning Resident Visa three months before you intend to travel as this gives them sufficient time to process your application.
What Is Your CRS Score For Express Entry?
[Learn More](https://www.myvisasource.com/canadian-immigration/permanent-residence/express-entry/ee-crs-chatbot/)
## **What Documents Are Required to Apply for the Returning Resident Visa?**
The following documents need to be submitted to the US Embassy or Consulate for a Returning Resident Visa:
- A Completed DS-117 Form- Application to Determine Returning Resident Status
- Permanent Resident Card, also known as a Green Card
- A Re-entry Permit, if applicable
In addition to the above-mentioned documents, you will be required to submit supporting documents demonstrating:
- Dates of travel outside the US, for example, airline tickets, passport stamps, etc
- Proof of strong ties to the US to demonstrate your intention to return, for example, tax returns, family and social ties, business, etc
The Consular office will review your application with supporting documents to determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements for a Returning Resident Visa.
## **What Is the Process to Apply for the Returning Resident Visa?**
The exact process to apply for the Returning Resident Visa will vary base on your consulate or embassy. However, you will be required to attend an immigration interview and go through a medical examination.
For your immigration interview, you must bring the following documents:
- Form DS-260- Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application
- A valid passport
- Two photographs in the standardized size as required
- Any other supporting documents requested by the embassy or consulate
If the interview is successful, your application for a Returning Resident Visa will be approved and you will be allowed to return to the US.
However, if your application is denied because you have abandoned or relinquished your status as a permanent resident in the US, then you may have to apply again for an immigrant visa by which you originally immigrated. You can also plan to return by applying for a nonimmigrant visa if you can establish convincing ties to your residence abroad.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Returning Resident Visa
### How long is the SB-1 Visa valid for?
The SB-1 Visa has a travel capacity of 12 months, meaning that you must return to the US within a year.
---
### How long can I stay out of the US as a permanent resident? ** **
As a permanent resident, you can travel outside the United States for up to 6 months without losing your Green Card. If you remain outside the US for more than a year or beyond the validity period of your Re-entry Permit, then you must apply for an SB-1 Visa to return to the US.
---
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