U.S. citizens may move to another country for a variety of reasons, including a job, military assignment, extended travel, cultural experience, and great opportunities. When returning to the United States, it is important to take the time to prepare and to properly relocate. These are some things to keep in mind when you consider returning to the U.S.
- Confirm that your identity remains valid as a U.S. Citizen. Individuals can be forced to give up citizenships that they have at the time when they become citizens of another country. You may also have to give up your U.S. citizenship if you serve in a foreign army or run for office. Citizenship.
- Make sure your passports are up-to-date. You must ensure that your identification documents are current and valid. To avoid any problems with customs or boarding an airplane, please ensure that your names match those on your tickets.
- Get the immigrant visa you need for your family members. It can take many years to petition a spouse, parent or stepchild to enter the United States. It is best to begin the process early in order to be eligible to enter the United States at the same moment.
- Register the birth or adoption of your children with the U.S. Consulate or Embassy. You can also obtain a U.S. Citizen passport to your children.
- You should prepare certified copies of important documents and obtain them in advance. You will need to have documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates and tax records in order to manage financial and medical matters once you arrive in the U.S.
- You must ensure that your professional or educational qualifications are recognized. You will need to contact the appropriate licensing board in the state where you intend to live and work. The U.S. Department of Education International Affairs has more information on licensing boards.
- Check your insurance records to update and find out about the various health insurance options available in the United States. You may need to be familiar with the U.S. tax and healthcare laws. It may take some time for you to be seen by a doctor once you arrive in the U.S.
- Make sure you have all your records for your pet ready for travel. You should know the type of documentation that you will need to provide the airline as well as the time you arrive in the United States if you plan on returning with fur children. You must obtain a CDC Dog Import Permit (valid for 30 days or more) prior to bringing a dog that has been vaccinated in another country. Upon arrival, CDC Dog Import Permits cannot be issued. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health
- You should review your tax records and make sure you have the most recent information regarding taxes paid to the IRS and foreign governments where you live. If you were employed, it is reasonable to have paid your federal taxes while you were abroad. Avoid any disputes or penalties with the U.S. Federal Government and the foreign government you lived in.
- Trusted experts can help you. It can be difficult to return to the United States after a long period of living abroad. This is because it requires you to be able to reestablish yourself and to adjust to American culture. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the visa or immigration process.
Summarized from an article by U.S. Immigration Law Group, LLP.
