Last Updated on August 22, 2022 by Visa Journal
Green card holders of the United States can travel to several countries without requiring a visa. Unfortunately, this list does not contain all countries that allow US citizens to travel without a visa, but it does cover a handful. Take a look at the country’s visa rules if you’re unsure whether the country you’re visiting has extended the same benefits. To put it another way, if a country’s visa policy declares that US citizens and permanent residents (Green Card holders) are visa-exempt, only then can you plan your travel accordingly.
List of Countries that US Green Card Holders Can Travel to Without a Visa
The following countries are open to Green Card holders without a visa:
- Canada
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Georgia
- The British Virgin Islands
- Aruba and Curaçao (Dutch Caribbean)
- The Balkans
- Singapore
- Peru
Canada
If you’re searching for a quick trip and want to cross the border into Canada, your passport won’t be an issue. Regardless of country, anyone holding a US green card can enter Canada without applying for a Canadian tourist visa. You will only need to apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Canada if you are flying. The eTA can be obtained online for a very low fee. On arrival, you need to show your eTA to the immigration officer together with your passport and green card.
If you’re travelling by land, all you’ll need is your passport and a green card. It is not necessary to apply for an eTA.
MEXICO
Mexico is another American neighbor you can visit without a green card if you are a permanent resident of the United States. All you’ll need is your passport and a green card from the United States to enter. However, you will need to obtain a Mexico Tourist Card. This is not the same as a visa. Moreover, you do not need to apply at a Mexican consulate or embassy or submit a formal visa application.
Obtaining a Mexican Tourist Card is simple. It is, however, more expensive than a Canadian eTA. The cost varies between $25 and $35. To receive a Mexican Tourist Card, use one of the following methods:
- You can receive your Mexican Tourist Card at your point of entry if you’re travelling by land.
- You can buy it at a Mexican port of call if you’re travelling by sea.
- If you’re flying, it’s possible that it’s already included in your ticket and will be distributed once the plane arrives. If not, you can receive it once you arrive at an immigration desk.
- Your Mexican Tourist Card can also be obtained online. Simply print it off and bring it with you on your journey.
- If everything else fails, you can get one via a Mexican consulate.
Costa Rica
Your US Green Card will also let you travel to Costa Rica, which is known for its stunning beaches, woods, rich culture, and friendly people. If you have a Green Card, you don’t need to apply for a Costa Rica visa to visit this Central American country, according to Costa Rican consular services. All you have to do is show the immigration officials your passport, USA green card and return/onward journey ticket at the port of entry:
You can stay in Costa Rica without a visa for up to 30 days, but any stay longer than that will require you to apply for an extension at the Costa Rican Office of Migration.
Georgia
European Georgia has a lot to see and do. It is home to Europe’s tallest hamlet (Ushguli, which is a unique spot), strange cave cities and a tour of Tbilisi, the country’s capital, a blend of cultures. The residents of Georgia are also known to be quite kind and friendly.
Georgia is open to US citizens and Green Card holders who do not need to apply for a visa in advance. You will need to show your passport, Green Card, and a return or onward flight ticket when travelling. You can stay in this country up to 90 days in 180 days through a green card.
The British Virgin Islands
For those seeking a beautiful location with stunning beaches and a place to spend an unforgettable summer, the British Islands are undoubtedly a destination you should consider visiting soon. You will need to bring your passport, return airline ticket, evidence of accommodation on the islands and your Green Card. Citizens of the United States who hold a Green Card are permitted to stay in the British Virgin Islands for 30 days without a visa.
Aruba and Curaçao (Dutch Caribbean)
Thanks to their incredible natural wonders, these two countries have a lot to offer travelers in terms of swimming locations and underwater life. Not only Aruba and Curacao, but you can also visit any of the islands that make up the Dutch Caribbean without a visa. This also comprises Bonaire, Saba, St Eustatius, and St Maarten, among other Caribbean islands. Keep in mind that this does not include the portion of the Netherlands located in Europe. Even if you hold a green card from the United States, you will require a Schengen visa to enter the Netherlands.
The Balkans
The Balkans, which include nations such as Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, are a spectacular region of Southern Europe that should not be missed. Green Card holders are permitted to visit these three countries without a visa for a duration as follows:
- Albania has a 90-day period within a 180-day span.
- Montenegro – allows you to stay for 30 days.
- North Macedonia for 15 days.
The advantage of travelling to Balkan countries is that they are far more economical than their more mainstream European counterparts, such as, for example, France, Spain, or the United Kingdom, which are more expensive. They have a plethora of fantastic sights and incredibly breathtaking views to offer, and they are also less crowded in terms of tourist traffic than other destinations.
Singapore
An Indian or Chinese passport will be required if you wish to transit through Singapore for up to four days using a Green Card. To be eligible for the Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) in Singapore, Indian and Chinese citizens must have a valid flight ticket, ferry/cruise ticket, or other travel ticket scheduled to depart from Singapore within 96 hours.
You must present your documents to the Singaporean Immigration Services (ICA) at the point of entry into the country. It is important to remember that you cannot use the VFTF more than once during the same trip — you may only use it once, either on your outbound or return route.
Peru
If you are an Indian or Chinese citizen who holds a green card issued by the United States, you will not need to obtain a visa in order to enter Peru. Peru is the place to visit if you are intrigued by archaeology or ancient history. Peru is the location of Machu Picchu and a plethora of other ancient cultures and civilizations.
All that is required at the entry point is a passport, a green card from the United States, and a ticket for your next travel. The immigration officers will issue you a tourist card, which will allow you to stay in Peru for a maximum of 90 days if they are satisfied with your performance.
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