Since 25 November 2025, immigration authorities in the United States have clarified that individuals who hold a Green Card may legally enter the country without needing a tourist visa or similar document, provided they have not remained outside the United States for more than one year.
According to official information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), “If you are a Green Card holder and do not remain outside the United States for 1 year or more, you must have your Green Card (I-551) or your returning resident visa to re-enter the United States.”
This means that, in certain circumstances, it is not necessary to present a passport or a traditional visa, as the Green Card alone is sufficient for re-entry. The guidance emphasises that the Green Card and, where applicable, a returning resident visa serve as proof of lawful permanent residence.
For those planning longer absences of more than 12 months, the recommendation is to apply in advance for a “reentry permit” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If issued, this permit is valid for up to two years and must be used before it expires.
This clarification provides relief for many permanent residents who travel abroad for short periods, as it eliminates the need for a visa or valid passport on their return, provided they meet the established requirements. Travellers spending less than a year outside the United States can therefore plan their return with greater confidence.
However, it is important to note that this exception does not remove the need for traditional documentation in other circumstances. This includes individuals who are not permanent residents, and those entering the United States for purposes other than returning to their place of residence, such as tourism, temporary work, or study. In such cases, standard requirements, including visas and passports, continue to apply.
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In summary, Green Card holders returning to the United States after trips of less than one year may no longer need a traditional visa, which can expedite their entry, provided they carry a valid Green Card and comply with the relevant time limits. The measure is not a “universal amnesty” but a clarification intended solely for permanent residents, subject to clear rules regarding time spent abroad and immigration status.
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