What is a Green Card?
Your green card is a Permanent Residence Card (also USCIS Form I-551), showing that you have lawful permanent resident status. This gives you the right to live and work in the United States. It is also proof of your registration, according to immigration laws. Do I Need to Replace My Green Card?
An alien must replace his green card if: - His status has been automatically changed to permanent resident status
- His green card contains erroneous data
- His green card was lost, mutilated, destroyed, or stolen
- He never received his green card issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- His name or other information on his green card has been legally changed
- He has been a commuter and is now actually residing in the U.S
- He has been a permanent resident living in the U.S. and is now taking up commuter status
- His card was issued to him before he was 14 and he has now reached the age of 14
- His green card is no longer a valid version of the alien registration card
How Do I Apply for a Replacement?
If you need to replace your card for any of the above reasons, you must file USCIS Form I-90. Do not replace your card, however, if you are a lawful permanent resident seeking to renew your card only because it has expired (that requires a different form). Once you receive Form I-90, follow these procedures: - Read the form carefully and be sure to include any documentation and photographs that are requested.
- File your application (including documentation and fees) at your local USCIS office.
- If you are not in the U.S. and you have lost your green card, contact an American consulate, a USCIS office, or a Port of Entry.
- If approved, a replacement green card will be mailed to you. This card will expire in ten years.
Do I Need an Experienced Immigration Law Attorney?
A lawyer would be able to guide you through the various immigration laws that you may encounter. If you need advice, you may also wish to consult the USCIS District Office in the area in which you live. They may be able to direct you to other organizations that may help you. |
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