LPR overstayed abroad. Can I drive from Canada to US?

[lipslikesugar 0]

If one stays abroad for more than 1 year, can she/he still arrive in Canada (w/ a canadian visa) and drive to US using his/hers GC not expired?

thanks

[Kathryn41 3,205]

It will be up to the border authority when you arrive at the US border whether or not they will allow you to re-enter or decide that you had abandoned your green card by being abroad for a year. A lot may depend on your reasons for being abroad and whether you kept any residential ties to the US during that time. You would have been better off to have obtained a re-entry permit before you left but it is a moot point now.

You should have no problems entering Canada as long as you have the appropriate visa. No one is able to tell you whether or not you will have a problem entering the US from Canada, though, as that decision is solely up to the border guard when you present yourself at the border.

[canadian_wife 1,785]

Kathryn as usual, is correct. Entering Canada does not give the immigrant any preferential treatment for entering the US. Inspection is still the same and it will be up to the agent to determine whether entrance is granted and under what terms.

Good luck

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

Point of entry isn't easier from Canada ( or Mexico) Many people think that these entry points are less strict than though than airports. If you are denied entry to the US because you stayed out too long are you ready to head back to your point of origin? In fact they may be more inclined to deny you are all they have to do is tell you to turn your car around and not send you on the next plane.

[engineer21 51]

If one stays abroad for more than 1 year, can she/he still arrive in Canada (w/ a canadian visa) and drive to US using his/hers GC not expired?

thanks

Before you make any further travel plans, you may want to look into applying for SB-1 Returning Resident Immigrant Visa.

Here is more info from the dept of state:

SB-1

Good luck!