Q: Concerns of a US permanent resident returning from Pakistan trip
I am a Pakistani citizen and a permanent resident of the USA. I plan to travel to Pakistan for 40 days and have a valid US green card and Pakistani passport. I've traveled to Pakistan before without issues. Will there be any problems upon my return to the USA?
A: If you have a valid Green Card, have not been outside of the United States for an extended period of time (6 months or more), have no prior arrests or convictions that can pose an issue, then you should not have any issues returning after your 40 day trip.
A:
As a US permanent resident with a valid green card, you should have no issues returning to the USA after your 40-day visit to Pakistan. Your prior successful trips suggest that the process is familiar to you, and a 40-day absence falls well within the acceptable timeframe for green card holders traveling abroad. Remember to carry both your valid Pakistani passport and your unexpired green card when you travel.
Upon arrival, you'll go through the usual customs and immigration procedures where officers may ask about the purpose and duration of your trip. Having clear answers about your visit and your ties to the US (such as your home, job, or family) can be helpful. Since your stay is less than six months, you won't trigger any presumption of abandoning your permanent residence.
It's always wise to keep documentation of your US ties, though you likely won't need to present them. The fact that you've traveled this route before without problems is reassuring. Many permanent residents regularly visit their home countries for similar periods without complications. Safe travels on your journey, and welcome back in advance to your American home.
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