There is no crystal clear rule on the amount of time you need to spend in the US in order to maintain your green card status. Although many people think that they simply have to travel to the US once every year to maintain it, this approach is a misperception.
If at any time the immigration inspector at the border (or airport) believes that you have abandoned your US residence (or that you have failed to even establish a residence in the US) and that your principal residence is outside of the US, he can try to confiscate your green card. In such a scenario, you can ask for your case to be referred to an immigration judge for the judge to make a final decision. When examining your case, among the factors that the judge examines are (1) your ties to the US, (2) your ties with Canada, and (3) the reasons for your extended absences.
The timeframe you’ve described in your post sounds a bit complicated and could lead to problems. I strongly advise you to speak to an immigration attorney in order to take all possible measures to preserve your green card.
If you’d like to further discuss your case with me, please contact my office directly to arrange for a consultation.
Edward Weiner
Attorney at Law
E-mail: E.Weiner@immigration-aux-usa.com
Internet Site:
http://www.immigration-aux-usa.com/
