When you first get an immigrant visa, you must remain in the United States for an extended period of time. If you leave the United States during this period of time and do not return, then you will lose your immigrant status.
However, there’s one exception to this rule: if you are able to prove that you left the United States and could not return for reasons beyond your control, then you may qualify for a Returning Resident visa. The Returning Resident visa allows the person to return to the United States and begin establishing permanent residency once again.
