Q: Am I required to possess a roundtrip ticket when I travel back to my home country as a GC holder?

A: To answer this question, I'll provide the key information a Green Card holder should know about traveling abroad for an extended period:

1. Departure from the US:

- You are not required to have a roundtrip ticket when leaving the US as a Green Card holder.

- US immigration officials generally do not scrutinize your departure plans.

2. Length of stay abroad:

- While you can leave with a one-way ticket, be aware that extended absences can impact your Green Card status.

- Trips abroad lasting more than 6 months may raise questions about your residence intentions upon return.

- Absences of 1 year or more can lead to abandonment of permanent resident status unless you've obtained a reentry permit beforehand.

3. Returning to the US:

- The main concern is your ability to prove your intent to maintain permanent residence in the US when you return.

- Having a return ticket (even if purchased later) can help demonstrate this intent.

4. Recommendations:

- If you plan to be away for more than 6 months but less than 1 year, consider having documentation to prove your ties to the US and intention to return.

- For trips over 1 year, apply for a reentry permit before leaving.

- Keep records of your US ties (property, job, family, etc.) to demonstrate your intent to maintain permanent residence.

In summary, while you're not required to have a roundtrip ticket when leaving, it's important to consider how your travel plans might affect your Green Card status and prepare accordingly.

Would you like me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this information?