Returning Resident (SB-1) Visas

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Overview

The SB-1 visa is for Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) who have been outside the United States for over one year, or beyond the validity of the Re-entry Permit for reasons beyond their control to return to the United States. If you apply for an SB-1 visa, the first step is to make an online appointment to determine eligibility for Returning Resident Status here before appearing at the U.S. Embassy Bangkok for an interview.

SB1- Returning Resident (1st Interview Appointment) - Determining Returning Resident Status

Scheduling an appointment online:

To schedule an appointment online for an interview to determine Returning Resident Status eligibility:

  • Visit the website here, and follow step-by-step instructions to create an account.
  • Schedule an appointment for the interview online here for SB1- Returning Resident (1st Interview Appointment) - Determining Returning Resident Status

Note

At the interview to determine Returning Resident Status eligibility:

Pay a non-refundable application fee at the U.S. Embassy Bangkok. The U.S. Embassy accepts U.S. Dollars or Thai Baht in cash or the following credit cards in U.S. Dollars: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Payment of the filing fee is not refundable and does not guarantee that the application will be approved.

  • Submit a completed Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117.
  • Provide proof of lawful permanent residence like your Green Card (I-551), Re-entry Permit/Travel Document, etc.
  • List the dates you travelled outside of the United States and provide proof of this travel (airline tickets, passport stamps, etc.)
  • Provide proof of your ties to the United States and your intention to return (tax returns, and evidence of economic, family, social ties to the United States, return tickets, etc.), and
  • Provide proof that your protracted stay outside of the United States was for reasons beyond your control (medical incapacitation, accompanying parents, etc.)

A consular officer will review all the submitted documents, conduct an interview, and determine your eligibility for a SB-1 visa.

After the interview to determine Returning Resident Status eligibility:

If you are approved for Returning Resident (SB-1) status, the U.S. Embassy will provide you with specific instructions for the remainder of the processing for your SB-1 visa. Like other immigrant visas, you are required to meet all other documentary and legal requirements to be issued an SB-1 visa.

If the consular officer has determined that you are not eligible for an SB-1 visa, this decision will not be reviewed or reconsidered. There is no appeal process.

If you do not qualify for returning resident status, then you will need to have a new petition filed on your behalf with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Another alternative for you to go to the U.S. for short visits is to apply for a tourist (B2) visa.

SB1- Returning Resident (2nd Interview Appointment) - Returning Resident Visa Interview

Scheduling an appointment online:

    • To schedule an appointment online, visit the website here, and login with your user details. Select SB1- Returning Resident (2nd Interview Appointment) - Returning Resident Visa Interview and schedule an appointment.
    • Pay an additional non-refundable fee at the U.S. Embassy Bangkok when you return for your second interview. The U.S. Embassy accepts U.S. Dollars or Thai Baht in cash or the following credit cards in U.S. Dollars: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Payment is not refundable and does not guarantee that the application will be approved.
    • Submit a completed DS260 and all documentary and legal requirements as instructed by the U.S. Embassy.
    • A consular officer will review all the submitted documents, conduct an interview, and determine your eligibility for a SB-1 visa.

More information

For more information about SB-1 visa, visit the Department of State’s website.

For more information about lawful permanent residents, visit the website of the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Thailand.