Can I Travel Without My Green Card in the United States? (Updated for 2025)

Travel is a pivotal part of many immigrants’ lives. Whether they are visiting family back home or touring a new destination, travel can mean connecting with loved ones and gaining new experiences. If you are an immigrant with a permanent resident status in the United States, you may wonder if you are legally allowed to travel without your green card. Continue reading and contact a green card immigration lawyer in NYC for more information.

What is a Green Card?

A green card, also known as a permanent resident card, is a card that signifies a person’s lawful permanent residence in the United States. It means that they have gone through the immigration process and were granted the right to live and work within the U.S. permanently. While they are not considered citizens, green card holders benefit from most of the same rights as U.S. citizens. The green card is an identification for an immigrant and proves that they are authorized to reside in the country.

Can A Green Card Holder Travel Without It?

As established, green cards are vital pieces of identification and authorization for permanent residents. Although it is important, is it necessary to take it everywhere? What about when you travel?

Domestic Travel

When traveling domestically it is not always necessary for a permanent resident to bring their green card along. They can usually get by with another form of identification such as a state driver’s license or ID card. However, it is better to be safe than sorry. While not always required, it is recommended that a green card holder bring it on domestic trips as proof of legal residency.

Note on REAL ID: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that as of May 7, 2025, all travelers will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights. Green card holders can still use their permanent resident card as valid ID at airport checkpoints.

International Travel

If an immigrant wishes to travel internationally the importance of carrying their green card increases. While they may be able to board their flight and leave the United States without it, they will be asked to present their green card when they re-enter the country. Without a permanent resident card, a green card holder will surely face delays, questioning, and may even be refused re-entry into the country.

What Happens if I Need to Travel Without My Green Card?

If you are still awaiting the arrival of your green card travel can be tricky. You may need to go on a work trip or travel home to see a relative.

• Domestic travel: You may be able to forgo carrying your green card as long as you have other forms of identification and legal residence like a state-issued ID or driver’s license.
• International travel: If you need to travel abroad before your green card has arrived, you can apply for temporary travel documents to ensure smooth travel. You can request a re-entry permit or be given an I-551 stamp in your passport. These serve as temporary proof of your legal residence and allow you to travel abroad and return without jeopardizing your resident status.

While it may not always be necessary, it is recommended that you carry your green card whenever possible to avoid issues and confusion—especially when traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my green card is lost or stolen while I’m abroad?

If your green card is lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling outside the U.S., you will need to visit a U.S. consulate and apply for a boarding foil (also known as a transportation letter) to return. This is temporary proof of your status that allows you to re-enter.

Can I travel with an expired green card?

Technically, your status as a permanent resident does not expire, but your card as proof of that status does. An expired card can cause issues with airlines and at ports of entry. If your card has expired, you may need an I-551 stamp in your passport as temporary proof.

How long can I stay outside of the United States without losing my residency?

Green card holders should generally avoid trips abroad longer than 6 months, as this may raise questions about whether they intend to maintain permanent residence in the U.S. For trips longer than a year, you must apply for a re-entry permit before leaving.

Do I need my green card when traveling to U.S. territories?

Yes. While traveling to places like Puerto Rico, Guam, or the U.S. Virgin Islands is considered domestic travel, it’s still wise to carry your green card since you may pass through immigration-style checkpoints.

Contact Our NYC Immigration Law Firm

Travel can be stressful for immigrants, but preparation goes a long way. Whether you are flying across the U.S. or leaving the country for an extended trip, carrying your green card—or obtaining the right temporary documents—will help ensure your journey is smooth.

If you have questions about traveling as a permanent resident or need assistance applying for a re-entry permit, contact an experienced NYC green card immigration lawyer for guidance.