Out of country for more than 1 year

[tonado]

http://www.usembassy-china.org.cn/guangzhou/iv/gzfaqs.html

 

I'm a green card holder who has been abroad for more than one year, how can I return to the U.S.?

 

You should prepare the following documents:

 

1) Original passport, green card, re-entry permit and/or other valid identification documents.

 

2) An explanation in English and Chinese, explaining the reason for your overstay.

 

3) All evidence attesting to the reason for your overstay. For example, if a medical condition prevented you from returning to the United States, provide all relevant medical records, such as hospital records and doctor’s statements. Translate all material into English.

 

When you have assembled the documents required and completed form DS-117, Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, return to the Consulate any Monday to Thursday at 10:30 a.m. After paying the application fee of $400 or RMB3, 320, a consular officer will interview you. At that time, the officer will only determine if you are eligible to apply for an SB-1 visa.

 

If the officer determines you are eligible, the consulate will send you an IV instruction packet and you must wait for a second interview. On the day of the second interview, you must pay an additional visa-processing fee of $380 or RMB3, 154. Approval of the opportunity to apply for an SB-1 Visa does not guarantee the Consulate will approve your visa. A consular officer will make this decision only after he/she has conducted the second interview and reviewed all documents presented.

You must have evidence in both interviews that extreme circumstances beyond your control prevented your return to the United States. Whether or not an officer approves your application at either interview, the Consulate cannot refund either fee.

[Mick]

WOW! $400 and a second interview.

 

I guess it's best to stay no more than 11 months and 29 days, huh?

[lele]

WOW! $400 and a second interview.

 

I guess it's best to stay no more than 11 months and 29 days, huh?

145833[/snapback]

Or file form i-131 first...