If you’re a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the U.S. and planning to work abroad for an
extended period, you might worry about maintaining your green card status. The solution lies in
Form N-470, which allows you to preserve your U.S. residence for naturalization purposes while
living and working overseas.
In this guide, we explain what Form N-470 is, who should file it, and how it helps you maintain
U.S. residency while working abroad.
What is Form N-470?
Form N-470, also known as Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes,
allows green card holders to preserve their continuous U.S. residence for naturalization, even if
they are working abroad temporarily. U.S. immigration law requires LPRs to maintain
continuous residence in the U.S. for a specific period to be eligible for U.S. citizenship. By filing
Form N-470, your time spent working overseas won’t disrupt your naturalization process.
Who Should File Form N-470?
Form N-470 is for green card holders who are:
- Employed by a U.S. employer or an affiliated company abroad, the U.S. government, or
an international organization. - Planning to work overseas for one year or more but intend to return to the U.S. after
the assignment. - Interested in preserving continuous residence for naturalization purposes.
If you plan to apply for U.S. citizenship and work abroad, Form N-470 ensures that your
overseas work does not affect your eligibility for citizenship.
Eligibility Requirements for Form N-470
To file Form N-470, you must meet certain requirements:
1. Employment Requirement
You must be employed by a U.S. employer or an affiliate, the U.S. government, or an international organization. The job must require you to work temporarily overseas, not for personal reasons.
2. Intent to Return
You must show your intent to return to the U.S. after your assignment. If you plan to settle permanently abroad, you cannot use Form N-470.
3. Filing Timing
Form N-470 should be filed before you leave the U.S. or as soon as possible after departure to ensure no gaps in your residency status while abroad.
4. Naturalization Eligibility
Form N-470 is primarily for those intending to apply for U.S. citizenship. You must return to the U.S. and apply for naturalization within 4 years and 1 day of your return.
How to Fill Out Form N-470
Here’s a quick breakdown of how to complete Form N-470:
1. Personal Information
Provide your personal information in Part 1 of the form, including your Alien Registration
Number (A-Number), contact details, and other identification information.
2. Employment Information
In Part 2, list your overseas employment details, including:
- Employer’s name
- Job title and responsibilities
- Assignment start and end dates
If self-employed, include your business registration and tax returns.
3. Intent to Return
Provide a statement explaining your intent to return to the U.S. after your assignment. This may
include family ties, property ownership, or other factors that demonstrate you plan to resume life
in the U.S.
4. Supporting Documents
Attach these documents with your application:
- Employer’s letter confirming your overseas assignment.
- Copy of your green card and other immigration documents.
- Evidence of your intent to return (e.g., family ties, property ownership).
5. Fee Payment
The filing fee for Form N-470 is $595. Ensure you include this fee with your application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Filing Too Late
File Form N-470 before leaving the U.S. to avoid gaps in your residence. Filing after departure may cause issues.
2. Incomplete Documentation
Ensure you submit all required documents. Missing documentation can delay your application or lead to a denial.
3. Failure to Demonstrate Intent to Return
Your intent to return to the U.S. after your assignment must be clear. Provide strong evidence,
such as family or property ties.
How Form N-470 Helps Your Immigration Case
Filing Form N-470 helps ensure your time abroad doesn’t disrupt your green card status. By maintaining continuous residence, you remain eligible for naturalization and avoid losing your permanent resident status.
Key Takeaways
- Form N-470 allows you to preserve your U.S. residency while working abroad.
- It applies to employees of U.S. employers, the U.S. government, or international
organizations. - Filing early and submitting complete documents ensures a smooth process and protects your ability to apply for U.S. citizenship.
- Form N-470 helps maintain your continuous residence for naturalization purposes, even if working abroad for a long period.
FAQs
1. Can I file Form N-470 if I am self-employed?
Yes, if you’re self-employed and working for a U.S.-based business abroad, you can file Form
N-470. You’ll need additional documentation like your business registration.
2. How long can I stay abroad with Form N-470 approval?
Form N-470 ensures you maintain U.S. residency, but your assignment must be temporary. You
must return and apply for naturalization within 4 years and 1 day of your return.
3. Can I apply for citizenship while working abroad?
Yes, as long as you file Form N-470 to preserve continuous residence, you can apply for U.S.
citizenship after returning.
4. Do I need to file Form N-470 if I’m just visiting the U.S.?
No, Form N-470 is only for those working abroad for an extended period. Short visits don’t
require this form.
5. How long does Form N-470 take to process?
Processing time varies but can take several months. File early to avoid delays.
