Two sets of rules at once
The destination country's immigration law decides whether you can live and work there, and that work is done with lawyers licensed in that country. The U.S. side is where we come in. Permanent residents who live abroad for long periods can be found to have abandoned their status, and a reentry permit obtained before leaving can help show an intent to return, though it does not settle the question by itself. Citizens face fewer immigration questions but keep tax and reporting obligations while abroad. People in temporary visa status generally cannot hold onto it while living overseas, so returning later usually means a new visa.
Planning for employers
Companies moving people across borders deal with work permits in the destination country, assignment letters, payroll and tax arrangements, and, for some employees, the effect of time abroad on a pending U.S. green card process. An employee midway through a green card case may need the job offer and the process to stay intact during the posting, which takes coordination. Gather the assignment terms, the expected length of the posting, and each employee's current U.S. status before planning. Family members who will relocate need their own analysis. A clear plan before departure is usually far easier than repairing status afterward.
Leaving with the door open
We start with where you or your employees are going, for how long, and what U.S. status each person holds now. We identify the U.S. steps to take before leaving, such as a reentry permit, and the questions that belong to counsel in the destination country, whom we can work alongside. We also look at what will be needed to come back, including the documents that support a return. Tax questions often come up and are coordinated with an accountant. The goal is to move abroad without accidentally closing a door you want to keep open.
