Losing a green card can unsettle anyone, as green card holders are required, by law, to have this document on them at all times. This vital document, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, acts as proof of your authorization to live and work in the United States permanently. Immediate steps should be taken to replace it, ensuring your ability to prove legal status, re-enter the U.S. after travel, and for employment verification purposes. Please continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Montgomery County immigration lawyer from our firm to learn about what to do if you’ve lost your green card.

What Counts as Losing Your Green Card?

While it may seem obvious, losing your green card occurs anytime you cannot locate the physical copy of your card. However, losing your card is not limited only to misplacing the card. As such, USICS treats a number of issues as a “lost green card,” ultimately requiring the applicant to apply for a replacement. These matters include having your card:

  • Stolen
  • Damaged
  • Destroyed

Other circumstances in which you need to seek a replacement include never receiving your green card in the mail or changes to your name or biometric information.

It’s important to understand that, if your green card is lost, stolen, damaged, or outdated, you must seek a replacement. As mentioned, lawful permanent residents are required to carry their green card at all times.

Immediate Steps to Take

If you discover that your green card is missing in Montgomery County, it can be incredibly stressful. However, it’s imperative to remain as calm as possible during this process to avoid complications and protect your identity. In short, the most important thing you must do is immediately file Form I-90 with USCIS to replace the lost or stolen card.

Step-by-Step Guide

  • File Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
  • Report the loss to your local police department (not required, but important to create documentation)
  • Gather identifying documents, like your passport, driver’s license, and old photos of your green card
  • Update USCIS if your information has changed
  • Track the progress of your USCIS case online
  • Once scheduled, attend your biometric data appointment

If you believe that your green card was stolen, filing a police report with your local Southeastern Pennsylvania police department is even more critical, as this can be incredibly beneficial in the event someone attempts to steal your identity.

How to Replace Your Green Card

Though losing a green card can be stressful, it’s important to remain calm and understand that there are measures in place you can utilize to help you obtain the necessary documentation. In general, to replace your green card, you’ll need to file Form I-90 either online or by mail. There are no differences in your eligibility depending on which method you choose. The only impact it may have is on conveniences and processing workflows.

Filing Form I-90 by Mail

You may wish to submit a paper copy of your application for a green card replacement if:

  • You prefer paper forms
  • Your internet access is limited
  • You are also applying for a fee waiver

In order to submit this application by mail, you’ll need to:

  • Download, print, and complete Form I-90
  • Select the correct filing reason (lost/stolen/destroyed card)
  • Include copies of identification
  • Include a payment or attach the fee waiver request form
  • Mail to the USCIS lockbox facility listed on the form instructions

Due to the nature of this process, you may want to mail this letter through the USPS certified mail route. This will provide you with a receipt of delivery, ensuring you are made aware of when your application reaches the USCIS location.

Filing Form I-90 Online

Online filing is generally the preferred method for most applicants as it is often the most convenient option. To file:

  • You must create or sign into your online USCIS account
  • Choose the option “My previous card has been lost, stolen, or destroyed.”
  • Upload supporting documentation
  • Pay the online filing fee electronically
  • Continue to track your case through the dashboard on your account

Filing Fees & Required Documents

Understanding the filing fees associated with submitting your Form I-90 to replace your green card, as well as the documents required, can help this process go much faster, as it allows you to organize early.

Typical Items Required

  • Valid government-issued identification photo
  • A copy of the biographic page in your passport
  • A copy of your lost green card, if you have one
  • A police report, if one was filed
  • Proof of name change, if updating the information on your green card

Fee Guidance

Unfortunately, the fees associated with seeking a replacement green card are set by USCIS and can change periodically. As such, you should always check the fee schedule prior to submitting the application to confirm the most accurate cost information.

You should note that some applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver, which can be filed and submitted with your I-90 application.

What Happens After You File?

Unfortunately, the processing time to receive a new green card can be incredibly long, as there are several stages in the process. While the exact timeframe will vary on a number of factors, like which method you’ve filed through or the current USCIS case load, you may anticipate waiting several months before receiving your new green card in the mail.

Timeline and What to Expect

In general, once your Form I-90 has been submitted, most applicants can expect:

  • A receipt confirming submission
  • Information regarding a scheduled biometric appointment
  • To see case updates through the USCIS tracking tool (if submitted online)

While the receipt sent to you by USICS confirming the submission of your application may serve as proof of your status in the country, if you need to travel, you may need to obtain a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport from USCIS, which usually lasts up to 12 months. This can help ensure compliance with work authorization or traveling.

What If I Lost My Green Card While Outside of the United States?

Unfortunately, discovering that you have lost or had your green card stolen while traveling abroad can be even more stressful. Without your green card, you will be unable to board a flight back to the United States without first obtaining documentation showing your status as a lawful permanent resident.

As such, if you are outside of the country and cannot find your green card, you should:

  • Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
  • Seek a boarding foil (which acts as a temporary travel authorization)
  • Provide proof of your identity and residence
  • Bring your biometric appointment notice or USCIS receipts, if available

After reviewing your circumstances, the consulate or embassy will provide further instructions.

Contact an Experienced Pennsylvania Immigration Attorney

Losing your green card can be an incredibly overwhelming experience. As such, to ensure this process is remedied as efficiently as possible, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with Cohen & Patel Law Firm. Our team can assess your circumstances to help you take the best course of action. Contact us today to learn how we can represent you.