Reasons for Detention and How to Stay Prepared
April 3, 2025
For many green card holders, international travel should be straightforward. However, some find themselves unexpectedly detained at the airport upon returning to the U.S. Understanding the reasons behind these detentions and taking proactive measures can help avoid unnecessary stress and complications.
LaToya McBean Pompy, who immigrated to the United States herself, was inspired to help families unite by founding McBean Law, a New York immigration law firm. If you or loved one need assistance with denaturalization issues or visa applications, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. You can contact us here or call (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her experienced immigration attorney team, who are ready to guide you through every step of the process.
Why Green Card Holders Get Detained at the Airport
Traveling abroad should be an exciting experience, but for some green card holders, reentering the U.S. can turn into an unexpected nightmare. Imagine stepping off your flight, eager to get home, only to be stopped at customs, questioned for hours, or even detained. This scenario is more common than you might think, and it can happen for several reasons:
1. Extended Absence from the U.S.
One of the most frequent reasons for detention is prolonged travel outside the U.S. Green card holders who stay abroad for extended periods—especially over six months—risk being suspected of abandoning their permanent residency. If you remain outside for over a year, you may even be required to apply for a returning resident visa before reentering. Immigration officers may ask for proof that you intended to return, such as tax returns, U.S. property ownership, or ongoing employment in the country.
2. Criminal History
Having a criminal record, even for minor offenses, can lead to complications at the border. Some crimes that may seem insignificant can trigger additional scrutiny from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Even if the offense occurred after obtaining a green card, it could result in detention or even deportation proceedings.
3. Suspicious Travel Patterns
Frequent short trips abroad without clear ties to employment or family in the U.S. may raise red flags. Immigration officials may suspect that you’re living primarily outside the U.S. while using your green card to reenter periodically. This can lead to additional questioning and potential detention.
4. Failure to Meet Residency Requirements
Green card holders must maintain residency in the U.S. Staying outside the country for extended periods without proper documentation or justification can make officials question whether you still intend to live in the U.S. permanently. Failing to meet residency requirements may jeopardize your green card status.
You can watch Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy’s YouTube video “Why Green Card Holders Get Detained at the Airport & 3 TIPS to Avoid It”, to learn more about the common reasons green card holders face detention upon reentry into the U.S. and provides practical tips on how to prevent this from happening. Don’t miss out on this valuable information that could help you or your loved ones travel with confidence.
