Traveling with a U.S. Green Card: Visa-Free Countries and Entry Requirements

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration policies and entry requirements are subject to change without notice. The author and publisher disclaim any liability for decisions made based on this content. Always verify current regulations with the official government websites of your destination country and consult immigration professionals before travel.

As a U.S. permanent resident (green card holder), you must carry both your valid passport (from your country of citizenship) and valid green card when traveling internationally. Below is a list of countries and territories that permit visa-free entry or simplified visa processes for U.S. green card holders, organized by region. Requirements may vary depending on your passport’s nationality; always confirm specifics for your case.

Americas

1. Canada

   • Stay: Up to 180 days.
   • Requirements: Green card + passport. No eTA or visa required.
   • Official Source

2. Mexico

   • Stay: Up to 180 days.
   • Requirements: Complete the Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM) at entry. For land crossings, apply online in advance. Retain the FMM for exit to avoid fines.

3. Costa Rica

   • Stay: Up to 30 days.
   • Requirements: Proof of onward travel within 30 days; passport valid for ≥6 months.

4. Panama

   • Stay: Up to 30 days.

5. British Virgin Islands

   • Stay: Up to 30 days.
   • Additional: Proof of accommodation and return ticket.

6. Chile

   • Stay: Up to 90 days.

7. Peru

   • Stay: Up to 90 days.
   • Note: Business activities may require a separate visa.

Europe

1. Albania

   • Stay: Up to 90 days within 180 days.

2. Georgia

   • Stay: Up to 90 days within 180 days.

3. Montenegro

   • Stay: Up to 30 days.

4. United Kingdom

   • Stay: Up to 24 hours (transit only).

5. Serbia

   • Stay: Up to 90 days.

Asia

1. Japan

   • Stay: Up to 90 days.
   • Requirements: Apply for an eVisa in advance if required for your nationality.

2. Singapore

   • Stay: Up to 96 hours (transit only).
   • Requirements: Meet Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) criteria.

3. Philippines

   • Stay: Up to 7 days (transit only).

4. South Korea

   • Stay: Transit visa available for up to 30 days for travelers holding valid U.S., Canada, or Japan visas and onward tickets. Chinese citizens with a U.S. green card need a Korean visa for regular entry, but may qualify for transit visa. Travelers with valid visas or permanent residency from one of 32 European countries can also transit Korea for up to 3 days when traveling to/from those countries. See Korea Transit Guide: Incheon Airport Free Tours & Visa Policies.

Key Considerations

• Passport Validity: Many countries require ≥6 months of validity.
• Return Tickets: Proof of onward travel is often mandatory.
• Overstays: Penalties may include fines, deportation, or future entry bans.

Final Note: Always check entry rules for your specific nationality, as visa exemptions for green card holders may differ based on your passport. Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country for authoritative guidance.

Travel Essentials for a Safe and Comfortable Trip

• Passport holder & document organizer
  Keeps your passport and travel documents safe and easily accessible.
• Travel document pouch Organizes tickets, boarding passes, and other paperwork.
• Anti-theft passport wallet Protects your valuables from pickpockets.
• Universal travel adapter Ensures your devices stay charged worldwide.
• Waterproof luggage cover Shields your suitcase from rain and dirt.
• TSA-approved lock Secures your luggage and meets airport security standards.
• Travel toiletry bag Keeps toiletries organized and leak-free.
• Portable luggage scale Prevents overweight baggage fees.
• Travel neck pillow & eye mask set Improves comfort and sleep during long journeys.
• Luggage tag Helps identify your bag and avoid loss.

Related Reading

• Trusted Traveler Programs: TSA, Global Entry, NEXUS, etc.
• Guide to Removing Conditions from a 2-Year Green Card
• How to Extend B1/B2 Visa in the U.S.
• Mexico Tourist Permit (FMM) Explained
• If you plan to stay outside the U.S. for more than one year, you must apply for a Re-Entry Permit (Form I-131) to avoid losing your green card status.