A method and apparatus for world-mode devices capable of managing technology selection for multimode roaming between existing access technologies, as well as possible future access technologies, in a manner that eliminates wasteful scanning for non-existent systems and reduces roaming charges is disclosed. The method allows the device an opportunity to reacquire its home system before scanning for available roaming network resources in a prioritized manner that mitigates roaming costs, while conserving power and acquisition delays by eliminating scanning for non-existent system types. A minimum OOS duration is imposed on a home system before acquisition of a roaming partner to provide more time to re-acquire the home system. Preferred partner scanning and acquisition reduces roaming charges, while scanning for non existent systems is eliminated altogether.