Your green card is a Permanent Residence Card (also called 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 or her green card if: 

  • Your status has been automatically changed to permanent resident status
  • Your green card contains erroneous data
  • Your green card was lost, mutilated, destroyed, or stolen
  • You never received his green card issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
  • Your name or other information on his green card has been legally changed
  • You have been a commuter and are now actually residing in the U.S
  • You have been a permanent resident living in the U.S. and is now taking up commuter status
  • Your card was issued to you before you were 14 years old and you have now reached the age of 14
  • Your 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 green 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

What Are the Legal Consequences of Not Replacing my Green Card?

Once a person receives permanent resident status, their status cannot be changed or revoked unless they commit a violation of immigration laws, or if they voluntarily surrender their status. Thus, the green card simply serves to verify the person’s LPR status. 

However, immigration laws require you to carry your green card with you at all times. Failure to replace or renew your green card when necessary can result in misdemeanor charges. Misdemeanor charges can result in fines and sometimes jail sentences. Not replacing your green card can also negatively affect your chances of obtaining citizenship through naturalization.

Being cited for not having a valid green card can also have negative consequences in other areas. For example, it may affect your eligibility to travel outside the U.S., as well as the ability to obtain employment or housing. Be sure to replace your green card promptly when necessary. 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. Also, in case of any violations, a lawyer can help represent and defend you. 

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. Also, in case of any violations, a lawyer can help represent and defend you.