The SB-1 visa (Return Resident Visa) is a special immigrant visa that allows green card holders to return to the United States after being outside the country for an extended period of time. Under its rules, a green card holder may be considered to have lost permanent resident status if they remain outside the United States for more than one year without obtaining a Re-entry Permit. The SB-1 visa allows these holders to regain their U.S. residency.

To qualify for an SB-1 visa, an individual must demonstrate that their extended absence from the U.S. was the result of extraordinary circumstances and not due to personal choice or negligence. The individual must provide evidence of reasons such as serious illness, urgent family needs, or work obligations that required an extended absence. The applicant must also demonstrate their intention to return to the U.S. permanently and maintain their permanent residency.

The SB-1 visa process involves an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate and the submission of all required documents that demonstrate the reasons for being away from the U.S. and their continued intention to become permanent residents of the United States. The process can be complicated and time-consuming, so it is recommended to consult an immigration lawyer to ensure that all requirements are met.