I’m from Albania. I came to the U.S. on a K-1 fiancé visa and got married to my husband in 2022. After our marriage, I received my 2-year conditional green card, which expired last month. I filed Form I-751 to remove the conditions a few weeks before it expired, and I already received the receipt notice with the 48-month extension. Here’s my question: Can I travel to Albania for a few weeks this summer while the I-751 is pending? Although, I haven’t left the U.S. since arriving. I do have my expired green card and the receipt notice. Will I be allowed back in the U.S. without issues? I’m nervous about leaving while something is pending. Anyone done this before?

Question

Rina Perez · Accepted Answer

Yes, you can travel with your expired green card and I-751 receipt; they serve as proof of your extended status. Just ensure your passport is valid.

Ana Cabrera · Answer

Yeah, you should be fine to travel. Your expired green card and the I-751 receipt together show your valid status. Just make sure your passport is up to date.

Brynhild Jensen · Answer

You can travel to Albania for a few weeks while your I-751 is pending, but ensure you carry both your expired green card and the I-797 receipt notice with the 48-month extension, which serves as proof of your continued lawful status, and consider getting an I-551 stamp in your passport for added assurance

Aadesh Chandekar · Answer

Hey Mirela, yes, you can travel as long as you have your expired conditional green card and the I-751 receipt notice that extends your status for 48 months. They are proof that you’re still a lawful permanent resident while the petition is pending.Someone I know did exactly this in 2023 to visit their family in Mexico while waiting on I-751. At the airport, the CBP officer looked at both documents and just called them in. no issuesJust make sure your documents are with you at all times, and avoid any long trips. Short trips are ok!

Mirela Bregu

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