Will an absence of 13 months prior to the 5 year period have any adverse effect on naturazlization ?
I have come back and live here during last 5 years without leaving US since.
Will INS seizes this chance at interview to revoke my residence on the assumption that it has been abandoned?

Dear Anonymous:

An absence from the US of more than 12 consecutive months could have resulted in the loss of your permanent residence status, even if it occurred more than 5 years ago. For that reason, we would suggest that you speak with an immigration law attorney, and provide him or her with all the details, before you attend your interview.

While chances are good that you will be able to keep your residence, and also obtain naturalization, you should make sure that you will not have a problem. Good luck.

i had just applied for my citizenship and wish to be outside the US for 6 months. Could this indicate abandonement of residency? I want to stay with my husband and daughter while waiting for my interview. thanks

Dear Immigration help,
I am a green card holder since 1995,
since then I got reentry permit twice or entered the US once a year for a very short visits.
I studied abroad and then I worked in the American company abroad.
Now I finally came here.
As I understood I can apply for a citizenship after 4 years and 1 day of continguous residense.
What I my chances ? Should I contact immigration lawyer , or my case is straight forward ?
Thank you for your help.

Dear Anonymous:

At the least, you should consult with an immigration law attorney who can review all of your evidence and make a determination as to whether your case will cause any problems. If he or she feels that you have good evidence to establish that you have not abandoned your permanent residence status, then you can proceed on your own.

While the initial evidence you have provided makes it seem that there should be no problem, there are always a lot of other things that INS looks for, and a good immigration attorney can help you with these issues. Good luck.

Thanks for response.
But can I apply after 4 years and 1 day or should I wait 5 years ?
Thanks.

Dear Anonymous:

If you stayed out for more than one consecutive year, then you can (and should) file 4 years and 1 day following the entry after the extended stay.

If you never stayed out for more than one consecutive year, then you can file at any time that you can establish that you have been physically present in the US for at least 1/2 of the previous 5-year period. Good luck.

Hello;
I am looking for some clarification. I have been admited to a 2 year mba program overseas. I have been a permanent resident for 3 years now.
While I go to school overseas, I intend to come back at least once a year or twice a year for two week visits or so.
If I want to apply for citizenship in two years, will INS give me any trouble? Should I get a re-entry permit before I go away? Thank you