Q: Immigrant visa stamp, is it valid to travel outside the United States with the green card itself

A: Once stamped, the immigrant visa is valid for one year and as long as you are still in that one-year period, then you can travel on it. There is a notation on the visa itself that states: Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year.

A: No, it is not valid to travel outside the United States with just the immigrant visa stamp without the green card. The immigrant visa stamp serves as evidence of your immigrant visa and allows you to enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident.

Once you have entered the United States, you should receive your actual green card within a few weeks. The green card is proof of your permanent resident status and is required for re-entry into the United States after travel abroad.

If you need to travel outside the United States before receiving your green card, you should apply for a Re-entry Permit before departing the United States. The Re-entry Permit serves as a travel document that allows you to re-enter the United States after travel abroad without a green card. However, it's important to note that the Re-entry Permit is only valid for two years, so you will need to apply for a new one if you plan to travel outside the United States after the permit expires.

In summary, it is not valid to travel outside the United States with just the immigrant visa stamp. You should wait to receive your green card or apply for a Re-entry Permit if you need to travel abroad before receiving your green card.