How to Replace Green Card
A green card identifies you as being a lawful and permanent resident of the United States. For non-citizens to legally be allowed to live and work in the U.S., it is necessary to have a green card. But what happens if you need to replace your green card? And why would someone want or need to replace a green card?
There are several reasons for needing to replace a green card. Some of these may include:
- Any changes in your immigration status, such as changing to or from commuter status.
- Updating or correcting inaccurate information on a green card (such as your name or address).
- You were under 14 years of age at the time your green card was issued, and you’re nearing your 14th
- Any changes in your residency status, such as automatically being converted to permanent resident status.
- You were sent a green card but never received it.
- You have an outdated version and need to replace your green card with one that is valid to comply with current laws.
- Your green card was lost, stolen, destroyed, or mutilated.
If you find yourself in one of these positions, it is essential that you replace your green card immediately.
How to Replace a Green Card From Inside The U.S.
A green card is proof that you are legally allowed to live, work, and travel to, from, and within the US. If you lose your green card, or if it is stolen, damaged, or destroyed, you must replace your green card as quickly as possible. If you were sent one but it never arrived, it is considered lost or stolen, and you will need to replace the green card immediately.
Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and conditional residents can replace a green card by visiting and applying at the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) website with Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
You can either fill out the form to replace a green card and submit it online or download it and send it by mail. Filing online is the preferred method to replace a green card and can be done on a computer, tablet, or cellular phone. By filing online, you’ll be able to:
- See your application status as early as 72 hours after it’s submitted
- Receive online updates about the progress and status of your application; and
- Communicate directly with USCIS regarding your application
If you must replace a green card that was stolen within the US, report it to authorities as soon as possible. You’ll need to include a copy of the police report, all appropriate documentation, and any fees when you request your replacement green card.
Replace a Green Card From Outside The U.S.
If you need to replace a green card while outside of the US due to loss or destruction, immediately contact the nearest US Embassy or USCIS office about replacing your green card.
This can be done online or in person in the country where your green card was lost or destroyed. You cannot replace a green card while traveling outside of the country, but the application to replace your green card needs to be done before you board your flight back to the US. You’ll need to submit Form I-90 to replace your green card and pay the required fees upon your return to the US.
To replace a green card that was stolen, you’re required to file a police report in the jurisdiction where it was stolen and contact your nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Even though it’s impossible to replace a green card while abroad, you will be able to request a “boarding foil.” This is a special letter allowing you to travel back to the US.
Current Fees to Replace a Green Card
As of January 2025, the filing fee for Form I-90 to replace a green card is USD $415 if you file online; if you file to replace your green card through standard mail, the paper filing fee is $465.
Fees for various services can change at any time, so be sure to check the USCIS fee calculator tool for the most up-to-date information. There is also an additional USD $85 fee for the biometrics interview if required.
Can an Application to Replace a Green Card Be Denied?
Yes, applications to replace green cards can be denied. If an applicant reports false information or USCIS discovers that information has been omitted, the request to replace a green card may be denied. A denial can also be given if the applicant is in the process of deportation. Denials to replace a green card are rare and can be appealed. If your application has been denied, one of our attorneys may be able to assist you.
Requesting an ADIT Stamp
If you need evidence of your legal status while awaiting a replacement green card, you can request an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp, also known as an I-551 stamp. This is a temporary stamp placed on a passport or I-94 travel document, acting as proof of lawful permanent resident status while waiting for a replacement green card to be processed.
This stamp is marked inside of your passport or your I-94. It’s important because it proves that you are an LPR and have permission to travel in and out of the country. It also serves as a valid I-9 document for employment. ADIT stamps are valid for one year.
To receive an ADIT stamp while waiting for a replacement green card, you will need to schedule an appointment at your local USCIS field office and take any required documentation with you to your appointment. Some of these may include your passport (unexpired), a copy of your green card (front and back), your notice of receipt of your Form I-90 (Form I-797), and your Form I-94 Arrival/Departure record.
If you need to travel and cannot wait to replace your green card, call the USCIS office and talk to a representative about what’s required of you, or contact our office.
How Long Will the Process Take To Replace Green Card?
It could take six months or longer before your application is processed before receiving a replacement green card. Once your application is approved you will be issued your replacement green card.
It’s important that USCIS receive all required documents at once and that your submission is complete. If you have any questions or concerns about your application to replace a green card, one of our attorneys will be happy to assist you.
If you’ve properly applied to replace a green card and are waiting for your case to be processed, but your green card will be expiring, it is important to note that, as of September 10, 2024, USCIS will automatically extend your green card expiration date by 36 months. Prior to this date, extensions were limited to 24 months.
Do You Need Help To Replace Your Green Card?
No matter what your situation, replacing a green card can be stressful. Call our office today to schedule a consultation, and let us help make the process of replacing a green card as simple and stress-free as possible.
11211 Taylor Draper Lane Suite 107
Austin, TX 78759
Tel: (512) 371-9000
Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Payment: all major credit cards, cash, check, money orders, cashiers check