How Can I Replace a Lost or Stolen Green Card?

For many immigrants, getting a green card is accompanied by the feeling of relief that they have finally become a legal resident of the United States. Losing the document that likely took many years and hard work to obtain can be stressful. If your green card was lost or stolen, you must file an application to replace it with the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). Without your green card, you can face issues surrounding your eligibility to update certain documents or continue working. Continue reading to learn more about the replacement process and work with a green card immigration lawyer in NYC for skilled representation and legal advice.

What Is a Green Card, and Why Must I Replace It?

A green card (Form I-551) is the official proof that a lawful permanent resident has of their legal status in the United States. Having a green card allows non-citizens to work and live freely in the country. In the event that this card is lost, stolen, damaged, destroyed, or outdated, you must replace it. Though you are still a permanent resident, you are legally required to keep the physical card with you at all times. Failure to do so can result in an inability to prove your status when traveling, working, or obtaining certain benefits.

Federal law requires that all lawful permanent residents over the age of 18 carry proof of their registration status, which is why replacing a lost or damaged green card is not just practical, but critical to adhere to immigration laws.

How To Replace a Green Card in the United States

If you are physically present in the United States and your green card is lost, damaged, or stolen, the first step in the replacement process is to file a correct form with USCIS.

For lawful permanent residents living and working in the New York City area, legal proof of status is critical for employment purposes, while traveling through airports like JFK or LaGuardia, and interacting with government agencies like the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

• File Form I-90, the official application used to replace a stolen, lost, damaged, destroyed, or outdated green card
• Eligible reasons to file Form I-90 include:
  • Your card was lost, damaged, or destroyed
  • Your card contains incorrect information
  • Your name or other biographical information has changed
  • You never received the card that was issued to you
• Method of Filing Form I-90:
  • Online: You may create or log into a USCIS account to complete and submit the form electronically
  • By Mail: You must print, complete, and mail the form to the USCIS address specified on the instructions
• You must also pay the filing fee when submitting the form, though fees vary based on the filing method
• You may be eligible for a fee waiver that must be submitted with Form I-90

What Happens After You File the Replacement Application?

Once you file Form I-90, USCIS will process the application, and, if approved, will send you a new green card in the mail.

The time it takes to get your new green card will vary depending on several factors. It could take several months or even over a year for your new card to arrive. You can check the estimated processing time on the USCIS website.

USCIS Processing and Proof of Status

• After filing, USCIS will issue a receipt confirming they have received your application
• You may be required to attend a biometric collection appointment
• In some cases, if you need proof of your lawful permanent residency while awaiting the arrival of your green card, you may be able to obtain an ADIT stamp in your passport to serve as valid documentation

How Do You Replace a Green Card From Outside of the United States?

When you are traveling abroad, the last thing you may anticipate is learning that you have lost or damaged your green card while in a foreign country. It’s important to understand that, without your green card, you will be unable to board a flight back to the United States. As such, you will need to take steps to seek a replacement at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

How to Return to the United States

• You must apply for a carrier documentation (often called a boarding foil) by filing Form I-131A, Application for Carrier Documentation, which allows airlines to transport you back to the country without a green card
• To file Form I-131A, you must have your passport, proof of lawful permanent residence, and payment for the filing fee
• Obtaining a boarding fol does not provide you with a new green card, as it only allows for your return to the United States, where you will then file Form I-90
• You typically must file Form I-131A at the U.S. embassy or consulate abroad

Contact Our Experienced Immigration Attorneys Today

If you have lost or damaged your green card, contacting an experienced immigration attorney with the Law Offices of Cheryl R. David is in your best interest. Our firm understands how complicated these matters can be to navigate, which is why we are ready to guide you through this process. Connect with our team today to learn more.