Cr1 confusion

[nvc_immigration 0]

Hello,

How long after getting to USA with a cr1 visa can you leave usa? And how long can I stay out of USA with my wife without making the visa useless?

Thank you

[newacct 688]

You can leave on the next flight if you want. The "visa" is single-use and becomes invalid immediately. When you enter on the immigrant visa, you immediately become a permanent resident, and the immigrant visa turned into a proof of permanent residency (I-551), same as the plastic green card, valid for 1 year from the date of entry.

You need to maintain residence in the US to avoid losing permanent residency. This is determined by many factors. Also, the green card or other I-551 document is only valid for entry after an absence of less than 1 year. If you apply for a Re-entry Permit before you leave, and get it, you can re-enter during the validity period of the Re-entry Permit, which is 2 years. However, just because the card is valid for re-entry does not mean you will not be determined to have abandoned residence.

[Mike-eeh and Odie 192]

Hello,

How long after getting to USA with a cr1 visa can you leave usa?

Immediately. Upon entry you are a LPR.

And how long can I stay out of USA with my wife without making the visa useless?

You should try and keep your long visits out of the USA less than 6 months per year to avoid any re-entry issues. That said, should you think your visits will be longer than 6 months, file for a re-entry before you leave. You must also consider that if you plan on naturalizing, the longer you stay out of the USA, the longer it will take for you to be qualified as living in the USA long enough to apply for citizenship.

[Ryan H 3,790]

Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Process & Procedures to Working & Traveling During US Immigration forum.