Can You Travel While Your Naturalization Application is Pending?
Yes, it is possible to travel after filing your naturalization application. However, your trip cannot last longer than 180 days. In addition, after filing your U.S. naturalization application, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will schedule a biometrics appointment to take your fingerprints. You must be available for this appointment and an interview. Your failure to appear for this interview will likely result in a denial.
A citizenship application attorney at Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A. can help you with your naturalization application and advise you on what to do if you need to travel during this period. Remember that once you become a naturalized U.S. citizen and obtain a U.S. passport, there are no travel restrictions regarding how long you are out of the country.
Types of Travel Documents Required
When traveling outside of the U.S., make sure the following documents are in your possession:
- Green card: Always take your permanent resident, or green card, with you when traveling internationally prior to naturalization. This document proves that you have legal permanent residency status in the U.S. It is recommended that you take your green card with you even if traveling within the U.S. in case immigration issues arise.
- Passport from home country: Until you become a naturalized citizen and take the oath of allegiance to the U.S., you are still considered a citizen of your home country. Bring your home country passport while traveling outside the U.S. during pending naturalization. Once you are a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a U.S. passport.
- Reentry permit: If you are a lawful permanent resident and are out of the U.S. for more than one year, your green card becomes invalid. It can also mean that your U.S. residency is invalidated. A reentry permit, good for two years, establishes that you did not intend to abandon your lawful permanent resident status. Obtain a reentry permit by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.
Travel During Different Phases of the Naturalization Process
Exactly which phase of the naturalization process you are currently in affects your ability to travel outside the U.S.
- Travel after filing Form N-400: While you can travel outside the U.S. after filing Form N-400, you must continue adhering to the “continuous residence” requirement or risk jeopardizing your application. There are exceptions for special circumstances, such as travel by certain qualified employees. If eligible for an exception, file Form N-470, the Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes.
- Travel while waiting for biometrics appointment: The fingerprinting necessary for your biometrics appointment must be performed in the U.S. It is usually scheduled within a few weeks of filing your application. While it is possible to reschedule a biometrics appointment, it is not wise to do so. Missing the appointment can result in application denial. Always make sure your travel plans will not interfere with your biometrics appointment.
- Travel while waiting for the naturalization interview: While you can travel while waiting for the naturalization interview, the continuous residence and physical presence regulations apply. Again, rescheduling a naturalization appointment is possible but unwise unless you have no alternative.
Schedule an Affordable Consultation
If you or a family member wants to become a U.S. citizen, a Florida citizenship lawyer at Bassey Immigration Law Center can help you navigate the complexity of the system. Our skilled and multilingual team has been through the immigrant process, and we know what you must do to succeed. We fully understand the immigrant experience and know how to fight for your future. Our clients include those from Central or South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and many others. Schedule an affordable consultation today.
About Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A.
Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A., led by attorney Aniefiok Bassey, provides comprehensive immigration services to individuals, families, and businesses in Florida and beyond. With over 20 years of experience, the firm assists clients with a wide range of immigration matters, from family reunification and green cards to business visas and deportation defense. The diverse, multilingual team is dedicated to supporting clients through the complex immigration process, with a special focus on citizenship, asylum, and LGBTQ+ immigration needs. They offer affordable initial consultations and are committed to delivering personalized, strategic guidance for achieving clients’ immigration goals.
