Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol Agent (CBP BPA) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Border Patrol Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term "returning resident" in the context of immigration specifically refers to a person who has met the criteria to maintain their status as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) and is returning to the United States after having been away. This indicates that the individual has established residency in the U.S. before their departure and is now returning, demonstrating their intention to resume their permanent residence.

A person who meets residency requirements, as noted in the correct answer, implies that they have been living in the U.S. as a permanent resident and have not abandoned that status due to extended absence or failure to maintain their residency obligations.

Other options in the question refer to different contexts: a tourist returning to their home country does not pertain to immigration status; a foreign national with a visa refers to someone who is temporarily allowed to stay in the U.S., not a resident; and an individual returning after being deported highlights a different legal status, as this may involve further legal complexities concerning their ability to re-enter the U.S. Thus, understanding the distinction is crucial for grasping the terminology within immigration law.