Traveling Abroad With Pending N-400, I-751, Or I-90: A Guide To Safe And Successful Overseas Trips
04 May 2025By Alena Shautsova, New York Immigration Lawyer
Many immigrants living in the United States worry about traveling abroad while their immigration applications are pending. Common forms that raise travel questions include the N-400 (Application for Naturalization), I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence), and I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). Each situation is unique, and careful planning is essential. In this blog, we will break down the rules, risks, and tips for successful international travel with these pending forms.
Understanding the Basics
Traveling internationally as a U.S. immigration applicant comes with risks. Even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can be denied reentry under certain circumstances. When planning travel while your application is pending, consider the type of form, your immigration history, the length of your trip, and your ability to prove ongoing ties to the U.S.
Traveling with a Pending N-400 (Naturalization Application)
The N-400 application is filed by lawful permanent residents who want to become U.S. citizens. The naturalization process includes biometrics, an interview, and an oath ceremony.
Key Considerations:
- Maintain Continuous Residence: One of the main eligibility requirements for naturalization is continuous residence in the U.S. Generally, trips of more than six months may disrupt this requirement.
- Trip Duration Matters: A trip shorter than six months is usually safe. Longer trips may lead USCIS to conclude that you have abandoned your continuous residence.
- Monitor Your Interview Notice: Once USCIS schedules your interview, you must attend. Failing to appear can lead to denial.
Practical Tips:
- Travel with evidence of your ongoing ties to the U.S.: lease agreements, employment letters, family documentation.
- Check your USCIS online account frequently for updates on your interview date.
- Ask a trusted friend or lawyer to check your mail regularly.
Tip: Notify USCIS if your address changes. Use Form AR-11 online to update your address and avoid missing critical notices.
Traveling with a Pending I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions)
The I-751 is filed by conditional permanent residents (typically spouses of U.S. citizens) to obtain a 10-year green card.
Key Considerations:
- Extended Green Card Validity: Upon filing the I-751, you receive a receipt notice extending your green card status for 24 months.
- You May Travel: With the expired green card and the I-751 receipt notice, you can usually reenter the U.S.
- Risk Factors: If you have criminal issues, a pending divorce, or are traveling during an ongoing interview notice, consult an attorney before leaving.
Practical Tips:
- Carry your original receipt notice (Form I-797) and your expired green card when traveling.
- Avoid long absences: Even though travel is permitted, prolonged time outside the U.S. can raise abandonment issues.
- Apply for an I-551 stamp (temporary green card evidence) at your local USCIS office if your expired card is lost or you lack a receipt notice.
Tip: Avoid international travel if you have received a Request for Evidence (RFE) or interview notice. Attend those appointments first.
Traveling with a Pending I-90 (Green Card Replacement/Renewal)
Form I-90 is used to renew or replace a lost, stolen, or expired green card.
Key Considerations:
- You Are Still a Lawful Permanent Resident: A pending I-90 does not affect your green card status.
- Documentation for Travel: You need valid proof of your LPR status to reenter the U.S.
- Lost or Expired Card? You may need to get a temporary I-551 stamp.
Practical Tips:
- If your green card is expired, obtain an I-551 stamp before traveling.
- If your card is lost, take your I-90 receipt and get the stamp to ensure reentry.
- Do not travel without proof of your status. Airlines and Customs may not let you board or reenter.
Tip: Plan your trip dates carefully, as USCIS local field offices may take several weeks to issue a stamp.
General Travel Guidelines for All Applicants
- Monitor case status online: Use the USCIS online portal or app.
- Use a trusted mailing address: Have someone reliable check your physical mail if you are overseas.
- Avoid travel if you have a criminal record: Even minor charges can lead to a denied reentry.
- Carry supporting documents: Bring tax returns, utility bills, pay stubs, or anything else that shows your life is rooted in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
International travel while your N-400, I-751, or I-90 is pending is possible, but you must be careful and strategic. The most important factor is having clear documentation and proof of your continued U.S. residency. Avoid long absences, maintain continuous residence, and always be prepared to answer questions from CBP upon reentry.
At the Law Office of Alena Shautsova, we help clients assess risks and plan successful trips during their immigration processes. If you are unsure whether you should travel, contact us today.
Visit www.shautsova.com or call (917) 885-2261 to schedule your consultation.