What happens if my green card is approved but I’m outside the U.S. when it arrives?

If you applied from abroad via consular processing, you’ll receive an immigrant visa to enter and receive your Green Card after arrival.

If you adjusted status within the U.S. but left before approval without Advance Parole, your application may be considered abandoned.

If it was approved while you were temporarily abroad with permission, have someone mail it to you or re-enter the U.S. using a valid travel document.