Yes, Martin is right, it's not an immigration ruling, it's tax laws. I spent 5 months in Florida earlier this year, then left for a cruise and upon my return to the USA my passport was stamped with an exit date of 6 months later, even though I had just spent 5 months there.

I file the 8840 form each year to prove I have a substantial presence in my home country rather than the USA. However, the most I've ever done in single year is 185 days, I've never pushed it any further than that.

The year goes from January 1st to December 31st for the substantial presence test. If you can't prove your ties to another country suitably, your worldwide income may come under USA taxation.

Sandra, they must think you look like a right dodgy character, they haul you in too often! You must look too nice or something