Stay Overseas after Citizenship

[Waitingoathletter]

Hi Ron,

I am just curious. Is there such a law that one must stay in the United States for "at least 1 year" after obtaining citizenship before moving aboard for long term?

[JoeF]

There is no such law.
A long time ago, there used to be such a law, but that was struck down as being unconstitutional. The US government has no business telling US citizens where to live...

[Waitingoathletter]

Thanks, JoeF.

[immigration83]

But why are US citizens still asked "how long were you gone?" at the port of entry? Thought this applies to PR only.

[Waitingoathletter]

But why are US citizens still asked "how long were you gone?" at the port of entry? Thought this applies to PR only.

As I know, this is one of the standard questions being asked at the port of entry. However, I was wondering what will happen if one says "I have been away from the U.S. for 2 years" even though he / she is a U.S. citizen. Anyone has an answer for that?

[Ron Gotcher]

A US citizen may leave for as long as he or she wishes and CBP can't do anything about it.

[Waitingoathletter]

A US citizen may leave for as long as he or she wishes and CBP can't do anything about it.

Thanks, Ron.

[immigration83]

Just curious - under what circumstances will naturalized citizens be denied entry?

Now that length of absence is not a problem after being naturalized, how about paying tax on time? Does one need to have proof of filing taxes in case absence is very long.

Anything else that naturalized citizen need to pay attention to for prolonged absence from the country?

[Ron Gotcher]

First, you need to understand that the only difference between naturalized citizens and "native born" citizens is that the former cannot become President. Otherwise, there is no difference at all.

Citizens cannot be denied entry into the United States. If a US citizen has committed a criminal offense and there is an outstanding warrant of arrest, that person can be arrested upon entry. Otherwise, US citizens must be allowed entry.

[immigration83]

For permanent resident & visitors, it's understood that the departure dates are tracked by US immigration / by the time when they check in at the airport.

How about US citizens? Does the airport staff record the departure date of US citizens and report to immigration as well?