How to Retain a U.S. Green Card Without Residing in the U.S.?},{

  After immigrating to the United States, how can one retain a U.S. green card without actually residing there? Most U.S. immigrants have their lives and work focused in their home country, yet they wish to keep their U.S. green card and continue enjoying the benefits in the United States. What can we do in this situation? Here are some tips on how to "not reside" while retaining your green card!

  Tax Issues for Overseas Work After Immigrating to the U.S.

  First, we need to understand that U.S. tax residents must report their worldwide earned income in U.S. dollars on their personal tax returns. Foreign income refers to income earned by taxpayers whose tax residence is outside the United States, with a maximum exclusion of $100,800 (2015 data) for wage income per person per year.

  Six Tips to Retain Your U.S. Green Card

  1. Keep Your Savings and Checking Accounts "Active"

  Green card holders must regularly use their U.S. bank accounts so that bank statements will reflect the account's usage.

  2. Having "A U.S. Address" is Important

  Ideally, having an address in the United States indicates a resident's desire to consider the U.S. as their permanent home. However, if you do not own a house, using a friend or relative's address is also acceptable.

  3. Obtaining a Credit Card Demonstrates "Creditworthiness"

  Regularly using a credit card from a U.S. financial institution will show the account's usage on the statement.

  4. "Paying Taxes is Important" - File Your Income Tax Returns

  You must file under the status of "resident"; filing as a "non-resident" can have negative consequences. Even if your income is not derived from the U.S., you must file taxes annually.

  5. Maintain Contact with "Friends and Family"

  You can prove your connection by maintaining email correspondence, letters, or even phone records with family, friends, neighbors, or classmates in the United States.

  6. The More "Memberships" the Better

  Memberships in organizations such as golf clubs or honorary memberships in certain brands can demonstrate active participation in U.S. membership activities through timely payment of dues, subscription to journals, and attendance at annual gatherings.