Returning Resident Visa (SB‑1)
Reclaim Your U.S. Residency – Legally and Confidently
Life happens. If you’ve been outside the United States for more than a year and your Green Card is no longer valid for reentry, the Returning Resident Visa (SB‑1) is your legal path back home.
At Borderless Lawyers, we help former lawful permanent residents (LPRs) regain their U.S. status with expert legal guidance—from eligibility screening to consular processing.
✅ What Is the Returning Resident (SB‑1) Visa?
The SB‑1 visa allows a lawful permanent resident who remained outside the U.S. for an extended period—typically over 12 months—to return without losing their status.
It’s ideal for:
-
Green Card holders whose stay abroad exceeded 1 year
-
Individuals whose reentry permit expired before they could return
-
People who can prove they intended to return but were delayed by circumstances beyond their control (e.g. medical, family, political, or employment-related reasons)
🔍 Returning Resident Visa Requirements (2025)
To qualify for the SB‑1 visa, you must demonstrate:
-
Proof of previous lawful permanent resident status
-
Evidence that your extended stay was temporary and beyond your control
-
Clear intent to return to the U.S. during your time abroad
-
Continued eligibility for an immigrant visa
-
Supporting documentation (U.S. tax returns, property ownership, family ties, medical/employment records)
📋 Step-by-Step Process
1. Consultation & Eligibility Check
We evaluate your case to confirm if you qualify for the SB‑1 and outline the risks and success factors.
2. Document Preparation & Legal Strategy
Our legal team helps gather and prepare the strongest supporting documents—including proof of your U.S. ties and reason for delay.
3. Application Filing at U.S. Embassy/Consulate
We prepare and file your DS‑117, assist with medical and financial forms, and prepare you for the consular interview.
4. Visa Issuance & Return to the U.S.
Once approved, you’ll receive your SB‑1 visa and can lawfully reenter the United States as a permanent resident.
5. Green Card Revalidation or Replacement
Upon return, we help update your Green Card records if needed, and support any follow-up filings.
💡 Why File for the SB‑1 Visa?
-
Retain your lawful permanent resident status
-
Avoid restarting the immigrant visa process
-
Keep your U.S. tax, healthcare, and residency records intact
-
Rejoin your family, work, or community in the U.S.
-
Open the path back to naturalization (if previously eligible)
🧾 Additional Legal Services for Returning Residents
-
Green Card renewal or reissuance
-
Representation in case of SB‑1 denial
-
Assistance with I‑407 (Record of Abandonment) reversal if signed in error
-
Reentry permit advice for future travel
-
Spouse and child derivative cases (if applicable)
-
Tax and U.S. residency compliance counseling
🌐 Ready to Return to the U.S.?
At Borderless Lawyers, we understand that long-term travel plans can change—and we’re here to help you make a legally sound return to the United States. Our multilingual immigration team will guide you through every stage of the SB‑1 visa process.
✨ What You Can Expect:
✅ Personalized visa strategy based on your unique travel and legal history
📑 Comprehensive document preparation and consular filing
🛂 U.S. embassy appointment coaching and support
🔄 Post-decision representation (renewals, appeals, denials)
🚀 Take the First Step Today
Speak with an immigration lawyer who understands the SB‑1 process—and your journey home.
🔒 Your inquiry is 100% confidential. Multilingual service available.
📞 Contact Us Now »