1. What is a re-entry permit for U.S. citizens in Jordan?

A re-entry permit for U.S. citizens in Jordan is a travel document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows a green card holder, or lawful permanent resident, to re-enter the United States after an extended period of absence without jeopardizing their permanent resident status. This permit is essential for individuals who plan to be outside the U.S. for more than one year but less than two years. It is valid for up to two years and serves as proof of the holder’s intention to maintain their U.S. residency while abroad. Failure to obtain a re-entry permit may lead to the presumption of abandonment of permanent resident status by U.S. immigration authorities. Therefore, it is crucial for U.S. citizens residing in Jordan planning an extended stay outside the United States to apply for a re-entry permit to ensure their smooth return without complications.

2. Who is eligible to apply for a re-entry permit in Jordan?

As a U.S. Citizen in Jordan, you are eligible to apply for a re-entry permit if you need to travel abroad for an extended period of time but intend to return to the United States as a permanent resident. A re-entry permit allows you to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad for up to two years without having to obtain a returning resident visa. To apply for a re-entry permit, you must be physically present in the U.S. when you submit your application and attend a biometrics appointment. You also need to provide evidence of your U.S. permanent residency status and demonstrate the need for an extended stay abroad, such as for work, study, or family reasons. It is important to meet all the eligibility requirements and follow the application process carefully to ensure the approval of your re-entry permit.

3. How long does a re-entry permit allow me to stay outside of the U.S.?

A re-entry permit allows a U.S. citizen or a U.S. permanent resident to remain outside of the United States for up to two years without jeopardizing their status as a lawful permanent resident. This means that you can stay outside of the U.S. for up to two years without needing to obtain a returning resident visa in order to re-enter the country. It is important to note that a re-entry permit does not grant any additional benefits, such as work authorization or re-entry guarantees beyond the two-year period. If you need to stay outside of the U.S. for longer than two years, you may need to apply for a re-entry permit renewal or consider other options to maintain your status as a lawful permanent resident.

4. Can I apply for a re-entry permit while in Jordan?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a re-entry permit while in Jordan. To apply for a re-entry permit, you typically need to file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Here are the steps you can take to apply for a re-entry permit while in Jordan:

1. Complete Form I-131 accurately and submit all required supporting documents.
2. Pay the associated filing fee for the re-entry permit application.
3. Attend a biometrics appointment, if required by USCIS.
4. Stay informed about the processing times for re-entry permits, as they can vary.

It is essential to follow all instructions provided by USCIS and ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements before submitting your application for a re-entry permit while in Jordan.

5. What documents do I need to submit when applying for a re-entry permit in Jordan?

When applying for a re-entry permit in Jordan as a U.S. Citizen, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Form I-131, Application for Travel Document: This form is the primary application for a re-entry permit and must be completed accurately and submitted with the required supporting documents.

2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship: You will need to provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship, such as a valid U.S. passport or a copy of your naturalization certificate.

3. Proof of Residency: You should include documentation showing that you have been residing in Jordan and the reasons for your extended stay outside of the United States, such as a lease agreement, utility bills, or employment records.

4. Biometric Information: You may be required to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photograph, and signature for identity verification purposes.

5. Additional Supporting Documents: Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to submit additional documents, such as proof of ties to the United States, proof of employment or educational enrollment, or any other relevant information to support your re-entry permit application.

Ensuring that you have all the necessary documents and information ready when applying for a re-entry permit in Jordan will help facilitate the process and increase the likelihood of a successful application.

6. How long does it take to process a re-entry permit application in Jordan?

The processing time for a re-entry permit application in Jordan can vary depending on various factors such as the volume of applications being processed at the time, the accuracy and completeness of the submitted documentation, and any additional processing requirements specific to the individual case. However, as a general estimate, it may take approximately 2-3 months for a re-entry permit application to be processed in Jordan. It is important to submit the application well in advance of any planned international travel to allow for sufficient processing time. Additionally, applicants should ensure that all required documents are provided and that they meet the eligibility criteria to avoid any delays in the processing of their re-entry permit application.

7. Can I expedite the processing of my re-entry permit application in Jordan?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen applying for a re-entry permit in Jordan, you may be able to expedite the processing of your application under certain circumstances. Here are some important points to consider:

1. Emergency situations: If you have an urgent need to travel outside of the United States for reasons such as medical emergencies or family crises, you may request expedited processing of your re-entry permit application. You will need to provide documentation supporting your emergency situation.

2. Expedited processing fees: There is an additional fee for expedited processing of re-entry permit applications. This fee is in addition to the standard filing fee for the re-entry permit application.

3. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate: To inquire about expediting your re-entry permit application, you should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Jordan. They will be able to provide you with specific instructions on how to proceed and any additional documentation required.

4. Processing times: Even with expedited processing, it is important to note that re-entry permit applications typically take several weeks to process. The exact processing time can vary depending on the volume of applications being handled by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

5. Plan ahead: If you anticipate needing a re-entry permit for future travel outside of the United States, it is advisable to submit your application well in advance to allow for any unexpected delays in processing.

6. Ensure eligibility: Before applying for a re-entry permit, make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements, such as having continuous physical presence in the United States and being able to demonstrate ties to the country.

7. Remember to follow all instructions provided by USCIS and the U.S. embassy or consulate to ensure a smooth and expedited processing of your re-entry permit application in Jordan.

8. How much does it cost to apply for a re-entry permit in Jordan?

The cost to apply for a re-entry permit in Jordan varies depending on the specific circumstances of the individual applying. However, as of the time of writing, the current fee for a re-entry permit application is $575.00 USD. This fee is subject to change, so it is important to check the most up-to-date information on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website or consult with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Jordan. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with fingerprinting or biometrics, which are required as part of the application process. It is recommended to prepare for any potential additional costs when applying for a re-entry permit in Jordan.

9. Can I apply for a re-entry permit online from Jordan?

No, as a U.S. Citizen living in Jordan, you cannot apply for a re-entry permit online. Re-entry permits are typically applied for and processed within the United States. To apply for a re-entry permit, you would need to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, by mail to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the required supporting documentation. It is important to note that you should apply for a re-entry permit before leaving the United States if you plan to be outside the country for an extended period. Failure to do so may lead to issues re-entering the U.S. after an extended stay abroad.

10. Can I apply for a re-entry permit at the U.S. Embassy in Jordan?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen residing abroad in Jordan, you can apply for a re-entry permit at the U.S. Embassy in Amman. To do so, you would typically need to schedule an appointment with the U.S. Embassy’s Consular Section and submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, along with the required supporting documents, such as proof of your U.S. citizenship, evidence of your residence in Jordan, and any other relevant paperwork. The re-entry permit allows you to re-enter the United States after an extended period abroad without jeopardizing your U.S. lawful permanent resident status. It is essential to consult with the U.S. Embassy in Amman for specific guidance and requirements related to applying for a re-entry permit while in Jordan.

1. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Amman to schedule an appointment for your re-entry permit application.
2. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, such as Form I-131 and supporting evidence, ready for submission.
3. Follow any additional instructions or requirements provided by the U.S. Embassy in Jordan to complete the application process smoothly and efficiently.

11. What are the consequences of not having a re-entry permit when leaving the U.S. as a U.S. citizen residing in Jordan?

As a U.S. citizen residing in Jordan, not having a re-entry permit could have several consequences when leaving the U.S.:

1. Risk of Abandoning Permanent Resident Status: Without a re-entry permit, the U.S. authorities may consider your absence from the country as an intent to abandon your permanent resident status. This could jeopardize your ability to return to the U.S. and could lead to complications in the future when re-entering the country.

2. Potential Delay or Denied Entry: U.S. citizens without a re-entry permit may face additional scrutiny and delays when re-entering the U.S. Immigration officers may question the purpose and duration of your trip, potentially leading to further issues at the port of entry.

3. Difficulty in Extending Absence: If you plan to stay outside the U.S. for an extended period without a re-entry permit, you may encounter challenges in extending your absence beyond the standard re-entry period allowed for U.S. citizens.

4. Legal Complications: Failing to obtain a re-entry permit as a U.S. citizen residing in Jordan could result in legal complications, such as difficulties in proving your residency status or facing consequences related to immigration laws and regulations.

Overall, it is advisable for U.S. citizens residing abroad, such as in Jordan, to obtain a re-entry permit before leaving the U.S. for an extended period to avoid potential complications and ensure smooth re-entry into the country.

12. Can I extend my re-entry permit while in Jordan?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen holding a re-entry permit, you can apply for an extension of your permit while in Jordan. To do so, you would typically need to complete and submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before the expiration date of your current re-entry permit. It is important to note that you should initiate the extension process well in advance of your permit’s expiration to ensure that you have the necessary documentation in place for your continued travel. Additionally, you may need to provide a valid reason for needing the extension, such as unexpected circumstances or delays in your return to the United States. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Jordan for specific guidance on extending your re-entry permit while abroad.

13. Can I use a re-entry permit to enter the U.S. from Jordan multiple times?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen holding a re-entry permit, you can use it to enter the U.S. from Jordan multiple times during the validity period of the permit, which is usually either 1 or 2 years. The re-entry permit allows you to maintain your status as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) while being outside of the U.S. for an extended period, up to two years. When returning to the U.S., you will need to present your re-entry permit along with your valid passport to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer for inspection. It’s important to ensure that you adhere to the conditions of the re-entry permit and do not stay outside the U.S. for longer than the permitted period to avoid any issues with re-entry.

14. Do I need a visa in addition to a re-entry permit to enter the U.S. as a U.S. citizen residing in Jordan?

As a U.S. citizen residing in Jordan, you do not need a visa to enter the United States. A re-entry permit, on the other hand, is designed for lawful permanent residents or green card holders who intend to travel outside the U.S. for an extended period of time without losing their residency status. For U.S. citizens, a re-entry permit is not required as you have the right to enter the U.S. at any time without needing a visa or a specific permit for re-entry. Therefore, you can simply present your valid U.S. passport when returning to the United States from abroad.

15. Can I travel to countries other than the U.S. with a re-entry permit from Jordan?

1. As a U.S. citizen holding a re-entry permit, you are allowed to travel to countries other than the United States, including Jordan. A re-entry permit is designed to allow U.S. permanent residents or conditional residents to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad for an extended period without jeopardizing their status.

2. While a re-entry permit does not guarantee entry into other countries, it serves as a facilitative document for re-entry into the U.S. It is essential to review the entry requirements of the country you plan to visit, including visa requirements, validity of the re-entry permit, and any additional documentation needed for international travel.

3. Before traveling to countries other than the U.S., it is advisable to ensure that your re-entry permit is valid for the duration of your trip and that you comply with the entry requirements of the destination country. Additionally, it is recommended to carry your U.S. passport along with the re-entry permit when traveling internationally to facilitate smooth entry and re-entry processes.

16. How can I check the status of my re-entry permit application in Jordan?

To check the status of your re-entry permit application in Jordan, you can follow these steps:

1. Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Jordan: The embassy or consulate can provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding the status of your re-entry permit application. You can reach out to them via phone or email to inquire about the progress of your application.

2. Use the USCIS Case Status Online Tool: If you submitted your re-entry permit application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you can use the USCIS Case Status Online tool on their website to track the status of your application. You will need your receipt number to access this information.

3. Check your Mail: If you opted to receive notifications via mail, USCIS will send you updates on the status of your application. Keep an eye on your mailbox for any correspondence from USCIS regarding your re-entry permit application.

By utilizing these methods, you can stay informed about the status of your re-entry permit application in Jordan and track its progress efficiently.

17. Can I transfer my re-entry permit from an expired passport to a new passport in Jordan?

Yes, it is possible to transfer a valid re-entry permit from an expired passport to a new passport in Jordan. To achieve this, you can follow these steps:

1. Obtain your new passport from the Jordanian authorities.
2. Ensure that your re-entry permit is still valid and has not expired.
3. Visit the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in Jordan with both your old passport containing the valid re-entry permit and your new passport.
4. Provide the necessary documentation and request to have your re-entry permit transferred to your new passport.
5. The embassy or consulate staff will transfer the re-entry permit to your new passport, allowing you to continue using it for re-entry into the United States.

It is important to note that the re-entry permit must be valid and not expired for this transfer to be possible. Additionally, it is advisable to contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in Jordan prior to your visit to ensure you have all the required documents and information for a smooth transfer process.

18. Will having a re-entry permit affect my eligibility for U.S. citizenship if I am residing in Jordan?

Having a re-entry permit should not affect your eligibility for U.S. citizenship if you are residing in Jordan. Here are some points to consider:

1. Re-entry permits are typically obtained by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who need to travel internationally for an extended period of time without losing their residency status in the United States.

2. Re-entry permits do not impact an individual’s eligibility for U.S. citizenship. As long as you meet all the requirements for naturalization, such as maintaining continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., passing the English and civics tests, and demonstrating good moral character, holding a re-entry permit should not have any negative implications on your citizenship application.

3. It is important to make sure you meet all the criteria for naturalization and that your time outside of the U.S. with the re-entry permit does not disrupt your eligibility. Consulting with an immigration attorney or a qualified legal professional can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

19. Can I apply for a re-entry permit for my family members who are also U.S. citizens residing in Jordan?

1. As a U.S. citizen, you cannot apply for a re-entry permit on behalf of your family members who are also U.S. citizens residing in a foreign country such as Jordan. Re-entry permits are typically for lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or conditional permanent residents who need to travel abroad for an extended period of time without abandoning their permanent resident status.

2. However, if your family members are U.S. citizens and wish to reside abroad for an extended period of time, they may consider looking into options such as obtaining a long-term visa or residency status in the country where they plan to live, if applicable. It’s important for U.S. citizens residing abroad to stay informed about the regulations and requirements of the country they are living in to ensure compliance with local laws.

3. As U.S. citizens, your family members can generally travel in and out of the United States freely without the need for a re-entry permit. It’s important to make sure that they have valid U.S. passports and comply with any visa requirements for the countries they plan to visit or reside in.

In summary, as U.S. citizens residing abroad, your family members typically do not need a re-entry permit from the United States. They should ensure they have the necessary travel documents and comply with the immigration laws of the country they are residing in.

20. Can I surrender my re-entry permit if I no longer need it while in Jordan?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen, you have the option to surrender your re-entry permit if you no longer need it while you are in Jordan. In order to do so, you would need to follow the proper procedure for surrendering the permit. This typically involves submitting a formal request to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) explaining the reason for surrendering the permit and providing the permit itself. Additionally, it is advisable to seek guidance from the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Jordan for specific instructions and support in this process. Surrendering the re-entry permit will officially cancel your permission to re-enter the United States using that document, so it is important to consider the implications before taking this step.