If you are a lawful permanent resident or conditional resident who has remained outside of the United States for longer than one year, you will require a new immigrant visa to enter the United States and resume residence. The appropriate type of visa for this purpose of travel is the SB-1 Returning Resident Visa.

Prior to requesting an interview for a SB-1 Returning Resident Visa, please review the information on the U.S. Department of State’s website regarding the purpose, process, and requirements for a SB-1 Returning Resident Visa: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html.

When you have determined that you wish to apply for a SB-1 Returning Resident Visa, please e-mail the following documents to ACSKigali@state.gov :

1. Completed and scanned DS-117 Application to Determine Returning Resident Status
2. A copy of your Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”)

After a pre-screening, the Consular Section will provide you with an interview date and time. Please come prepared to the interview with:

1. Printed out DS-117 Application to Determine Returning Resident Status
2. Your original Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”)
3. Evidence of dates of travel outside of the United States (airline tickets, passport stamps, etc.)
4. Proof of your ties to the United States and your intention to return (tax returns, evidence of economic ties to the United States, etc.)
5. Proof that your extended stay outside of the United States was for reasons beyond your control (medical incapacitation or emergency, et.)
6. Method of payment for the SB-1 application fee of $180:
   • Credit card payments are preferred.
   • Please note that if your application for SB-1 status is denied, you will not receive a refund of the application fee.

If SB-1 status is approved during your interview, the Consular Officer will provide you instructions for the next steps in the process.

Please do not hesitate to contact us on ACSKigali@state.gov if you have any questions.