If you lose your green card or it gets stolen, you can replace it by filling out Form I-90, also known as the “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.” This process involves submitting the required documents, and paying the filing fee if needed. This guide will explain everything you need to do to replace your green card, whether it’s lost, stolen, or damaged.
Key Update: Starting Sept. 10, 2024, USCIS extended the validity of green cards to 36 months for those filing Form I-90 to renew their cards. This helps address longer processing times and allows you to use the receipt notice with your expired card as proof of status and work authorization.
When Do You Need to Replace Your Green Card?
You should replace your green card if:
- It’s lost, stolen, or damaged.
- It was issued before you turned 14, and now that you’re 14 or older, it will expire when you’re 16.
- There’s incorrect information on the card (like a wrong name or birth date).
- You never received your original green card.
You might also need to replace your card if:
- You’ve legally changed your name or personal information.
- You have a commuter green card (you live in Canada or Mexico but work in the U.S.) and want to live in the U.S. permanently.
- You want to switch from a regular green card to a commuter green card.
- You have an outdated green card (like an AR-3, AR-103, or I-151 card).
- Your permanent residence was granted automatically (such as for farm workers under the 1986 immigration reforms).
- Your green card doesn’t have an expiration date, especially if it was issued between 1979 and 1989 and you’ve changed your appearance since the card was issued.
How to Replace Your Green Card
To replace your green card, you need to complete and submit Form I-90, either online or by mail. You can only file from within the U.S., so if you’re abroad, you’ll need to return before requesting a replacement.
Here’s how to go about it:
Replacing a Green Card in the U.S.
- Complete Form I-90.
- Review and sign the form.
- Submit the form along with any supporting documents and the filing fee, if required.
Supporting documents might include a photocopy (or the original) of your green card, a government-issued ID like a driver’s license, or other proof of your status. You can check the checklist of required documents from Boundless to make sure you have everything.
Replacing a Green Card While Abroad
If you lose your green card or it’s stolen while you’re traveling, here’s what to do:
- Report the loss to local authorities and get a police report.
- Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance.
- You may need to apply for a “boarding foil” by completing Form I-131A (Application for a Travel Document), which allows you to board a flight to the U.S. This document costs $575.
Once you’re back in the U.S., you can file Form I-90 for a replacement card.
If Your Green Card Expires While Abroad
If your green card expires while you’re traveling, you may have trouble re-entering the U.S. You could be denied entry at a port of entry or when boarding your flight. If your green card has expired, you can check the Boundless guide for more details on renewing your card.
What’s the Cost to Replace a Green Card?
- Paper filing: $465
- Online filing: $415
How Long Does It Take to Get a New Green Card?
Processing times for green card replacements can vary, ranging from several months to over a year, depending on your situation. Visit the USCIS website for the most up-to-date processing time.
Need Your Green Card Sooner?
If you need your green card urgently, you can get a temporary stamp on your passport called an “ADIT stamp” (also known as an I-551 stamp). This stamp serves as a temporary green card for one year. You can get an ADIT stamp at your nearest USCIS office, or even without filing Form I-90 if you have a pending U.S. citizenship application.
What Happens After You Apply?
USCIS will notify you when they receive your Form I-90 application. You’ll also be able to track your application status online.
Within 1-2 weeks, you’ll receive a notice for your biometrics appointment (photo and fingerprinting). If USCIS needs more information, they’ll send a request for additional documentation.
Once approved, your new green card will be mailed to you. If your address changes during this process, make sure to update USCIS with your new address.
What If Your Green Card Replacement is Denied?
If your application is denied, USCIS will send you a letter explaining the reason. If there were issues like false information or a deportation order, your application could be denied.
You can file a motion to ask USCIS to reconsider the denial by submitting Form I-290B within 30 days. The filing fee for a motion is $675, or you can request a fee waiver if you have financial hardship.
For complicated cases, it’s a good idea to seek help from an immigration lawyer. You can find an attorney through the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) or accredited nonprofit organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a penalty for losing my green card?
While there’s no direct penalty, you’ll have to pay for the replacement card. Not carrying your green card with you can result in fines or legal issues, especially for work or travel.
What if I find my green card after applying for a replacement?
If you find your card after applying for a replacement, you can withdraw your application by contacting USCIS, but you won’t get a refund for the filing fee.
What should I do if my green card is stolen?
If your green card is stolen, report it to the police and monitor your credit for any unusual activity to prevent identity theft.
