Green Card Holder’s Guide: Understanding Temporary Passports

Traveling internationally can be a complex process, especially for green card holders who may face unique challenges in obtaining a passport from their country of origin. Understanding the various travel options available, including re-entry permits and other forms of temporary identification, can significantly simplify the travel experience.

Temporary Passports and Green Card Holders

The term 'temporarily passport' can be confusing since the concept varies depending on the source—your country of origin or the United States. Typically, you require a regular passport from your country of nationality to travel. However, in some exceptional cases, like for Venezuelan refugees, the U.S. Government can issue a noncitizen passport to allow travel.

Re-Entry Permit: A Passport-like Document

As a green card holder, you cannot obtain a U.S. passport. Instead, you can apply for a Re-entry Permit, a document that resembles a passport but is marked as a 'Travel Document' rather than a 'Passport.' Here are some key points about this travel document:

Purpose: It is primarily intended for nonimmigrant return. However, it can be used as an international travel document if necessary. Applicability: If you plan to travel outside the U.S. and need a form of identification for entry and exit, but do not have a passport from your home country, a Re-entry Permit may be a viable option. Recognition: Many countries accept re-entry permits as valid travel documents. However, it is crucial to check the specific requirements of the countries you plan to visit.

According to this USCIS brochure, re-entry permits are useful for:

Travelers who cannot or do not wish to obtain a passport from their home country. Individuals planning to travel abroad and needing a valid form of identification.

When to Use a Re-Entry Permit

A re-entry permit is an alternative to a passport from your home country. Use it if you meet the following criteria:

You are a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. You cannot or do not wish to obtain a passport from your home country. The country you plan to visit recognizes the re-entry permit as a valid travel document.

However, using a re-entry permit can be more cumbersome than using a passport from your home country. It is advisable to exhaust all options for obtaining a passport before resorting to this method. If you can renew your passport from your home country, it is generally the preferred and easier option.

Special Circumstances

In rare circumstances, and only if you are a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. and cannot obtain a passport from your home country, you may be eligible for a re-entry permit. This typically applies to those facing unique situations where obtaining a passport is not possible, such as certain political or social restrictions.

It is essential to understand the travel requirements of each country you plan to visit. Check their specific entry and exit requirements for re-entry permits and ensure that the permit is recognized and accepted by the destination country.

Conclusion

While the process of obtaining a temporary passport is complex, understanding the options available can make traveling as a green card holder feasible. Whether you choose a re-entry permit or seek to renew your passport from your home country, proper preparation and awareness of international travel requirements are key to a successful trip.