I heard as long as someone continued to maintain financial ties with US, they can use SB-1 to return even after one year has passed since stepping outside the country. However, if an unexpired B2 visa obtained prior to getting the green card already exists, can that be used in lieu of SB-1, to re-enter?
On the other hand, if SB-1 is mandatory, is that sufficient to re-enter as long as green card has not expired or does one need to apply for additional visas or go through additional procedures before permitted back into the country?
On a related note, what are some of the advantages of surrendering the green card using I-407, if flying back to US continues to be a challenge due to the current pandemic? The green card was obtained 2 years ago.