If you’re a green card holder, you might be wondering where can Green Card Holders Travel without any hassle.
As a green card holder, you have the privilege of living and working in the United States permanently.
However, you might also have to travel for personal or business purposes, and it’s essential to know which countries you can visit and which ones you can’t.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on where green card holders can travel.
What is a green card?
A green card is a document that proves that you have legal permanent residence in the United States.
It’s also known as a Permanent Resident Card. Green cards are issued by the U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to people who meet certain eligibility requirements.
Once you have a green card, you can live and work in the United States permanently.
Travel restrictions for green card holders
Although green card holders have several benefits, there are also travel restrictions that they have to abide by.
If you’re a green card holder, you’re required to maintain a residence in the United States, and if you’re planning to be outside of the country for more than six months, you need to obtain a re-entry permit.
If you’re planning to be outside of the country for more than a year, you’ll need to obtain a returning resident visa to re-enter the United States.
Countries that green card holders can visit without a visa
As a green card holder, you can visit several countries without a visa.
The following countries allow green card holders to enter without a visa for a certain period:
- Aruba
- Bahamas
- Bermuda
- Canada
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Curaçao
- Dominican Republic
- Mexico
- Panama
- Serbia
However, keep in mind that the rules and regulations for each country can change, and it’s essential to check with the consulate or embassy of the country you’re planning to visit before you travel.
Traveling to Canada and Mexico as a green card holder
If you’re planning to travel to Canada or Mexico as a green card holder, you don’t need a visa, but you do need to carry your green card with you.
However, if you’re traveling by air to Canada, you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa, depending on your nationality. If you’re traveling by land or sea, you don’t need an eTA.
For Mexico, green card holders can enter the country without a visa for up to 180 days.
However, if you’re traveling by air, you’ll need to fill out an FMM form (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) upon arrival.
Make sure to keep the FMM form with you during your stay in Mexico, as you’ll need it to exit the country.
Countries that require an eTA for green card holders
Some countries require green card holders to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling.
The eTA is a digital document that allows travelers to enter a country without a visa for a specific period.
The following countries require green card holders to obtain an eTA:
- Australia
- Canada (if traveling by air)
- New Zealand
To obtain an eTA, you’ll need to fill out an online application form and pay a fee.
The application process is straightforward and usually takes a few minutes to complete.
Countries that require a visa for green card holders
Several countries require green card holders to obtain a visa before entering the country.
The visa application process can take several weeks, so it’s essential to plan your trip accordingly.
The following countries require green card holders to obtain a visa:
- China
- India
- Russia
- Brazil
- Saudi Arabia
- Vietnam
The visa application process for each country can vary, and it’s essential to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you’re planning to visit for the most up-to-date information.
Countries that don’t allow green card holders to visit
Some countries don’t allow green card holders to enter the country, even if they have a valid visa or eTA.
The following countries don’t allow green card holders to visit:
- North Korea
- Syria
- Sudan
- Iran
If you’re planning to travel to any of these countries, you’ll need to obtain a special permission or waiver from the U.S. government.
Tips for traveling as a green card holder
Before you travel as a green card holder, make sure to do the following:
- Check the entry requirements for the country you’re planning to visit.
- Carry your green card with you at all times.
- Obtain an eTA or visa, if required.
- Apply for a re-entry permit or returning resident visa, if you’re planning to be outside of the U.S. for an extended period.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
- Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and alerts from the U.S. government.
Conclusion
Traveling as a green card holder can be confusing, with different countries having different rules and regulations.
However, by following the guidelines mentioned in this article, you can travel without any hassle.
Remember to check the entry requirements for the country you’re planning to visit and carry your green card with you at all times.
FAQs
- Can green card holders travel to Europe without a visa?
- Green card holders can travel to several countries in Europe without a visa. However, some countries might require an eTA or a visa, depending on the nationality.
- How long can green card holders stay outside of the U.S.?
- Green card holders are required to maintain a residence in the United States. If you’re planning to be outside of the U.S. for more than six months, you need to obtain a re-entry permit.
- Can green card holders travel to Cuba?
- Yes, green card holders can travel to Cuba. However, there are restrictions on the types of activities that you can participate in, and you’ll need to obtain a visa.