Hello! This is a niche topic but wanted to know some of your experiences with having/returning a green card in Japan. Currently in my early 20s (Japanese passport) and just started my career in Tokyo. I don’t have any intentions of moving back to the US but of course everyone is saying that it’s always better to maintain it. I’ve already renewed my US reentry permit three times but it’s a costly trip to do every few years.
Are there any additional points I should rethink before giving up my permanent residency? Would love to know your experiences & pros/cons with maintaining a green card in Japan.
4 comments
Do you have to go all the way to the states to do your paperwork?
The embassy or a consulate may be able to save you a trip.
You’re only in your early 20’s and have just started your career. It’s a time when it’s good to keep options broad in case you do change your mind, if you were older you’re generally more stable and less likely to change your mind. Maybe give it a few more years until you’re more established before making such a big decision?
I would also agree that you’re only 20. Keep your options open.
I’ve lived in Canada, America and now Japan since I left my home country (Germany) when I was 20.
It’s been 11 years now and I’m still not sure where I want to live long term.
You won’t be able to maintain it indefinitely in any rate. Unless you have a re-entry permit it expires after 1 year, and even if you keep making short visits back to try to reset the time limit, eventually immigration will catch on.