How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Green Card

If you are living in the United States as a legal permanent resident, your Green Card is a lot more than just identification, it is your evidence of legal status. But what if it is stolen or lost? Whether your Green card has been stolen, or damaged or, you just need to update the details, it is important to know how to replace a Green card efficiently and quickly.

In this blog post, we will talk about everything you need to know about the Green card replacement process, fees, documents, and what to expect.

What to Do If Your Green Card Is Stolen or Lost

As aforementioned, take immediate action if your Green card is stolen. Firstly, report the theft to your local police department and get a copy of the report. This helps you protect your identity, and the report copy may be required during the Green card replacement process.

This is followed by filing Form I-90 with USCIS and telling them that your card was stolen, and attach a copy of the theft police report. Having a stolen Green Card is risky, as it can potentially put you at risk of identity theft or fraud, so it is important to act quickly. Until your replacement Green Card comes in, consider requesting an I-551 authorization in your passport to serve as temporary evidence of permanent residency.

Whereas if you have lost your Green Card during travel, driving, or day-to-day activities, then you should file Form I-90. It is essential to tell the reason for the replacement, mark it as "Lost", to make sure the process is smooth and error-free.

USCIS will give a receipt notice once your application is accepted. You can use this receipt information to check the Green card status online. Until the New Green Card is allocated, avoid international travel and job changes because in such cases you are required to present proof of your legal status.

Online Green Card Replacement

A big thanks to this technological era because it is now easier to request a replacement Green Card online. USCIS offers a smooth process via its website where you can just simply file Form I-90 digitally, upload all the necessary documents, and receive status updates.

Online filing is specifically helpful for those who want to cut down on the paperwork and speed up the Green card replacement process. You are still obliged to attend a biometrics appointment, but everything else, from filing to payment, can be done online.

Steps for Green Card Replacement

The replacement Green Card process begins with filing Form I-90. This is an application to replace a Permanent Resident Card. This form is available via the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and can be filed via mail or online.

Here is what you need to keep handy:

- A copy of your actual Green Card (if available)

- A government ID like a driver’s license or a passport

- A police report in case of theft

There’s a standard fee for the process and after submitting your application, USCIS will provide you with a receipt and schedule a biometrics appointment. If needed, you can ask for a temporary stamp on your passport to verify your legal status, meanwhile you can wait for your new Green Card.

Differences Between Renewing and Replacing a Green Card

It is necessary to differentiate between when you should renew a Green Card and when you should replace a Green card. If your card is damaged physically, stolen, or lost, you need a Green card replacement. However, if your card is just expiring, then you have to consider renewing a Green Card.

Special Green Card Cases

If you have a marriage Green card and your marital status is changed, USCIS must be informed. This involves submitting extra documentation to help your status change.

Also, people with a temporary Green Card, such as dependent residents, should apply for permanent residency before the validity of their Green card expires. This is not a common replacement Green Card situation, but instead an upgrade in status. In such cases, you won't just be asking for a new card, you are transitioning to a more permanent lawful status.

The Importance of a Green Card

A Green Card is your holy grail in the U.S. This card lets you live and work permanently in the United States, as it is official proof of your immigration status. So if you lose it or even have a damaged Green Card, all of these can lead to serious issues such as travel restrictions, denied employment, and problems during immigration checks.

Whether you have a temporary Green Card, a standard version, or a marriage Green Card, having a valid card is necessary. The ideal time to start the Green Card replacement process is when your card is damaged physically, lost, or stolen.

Tips on Preventing Your Green Card Issues

1. Once you replace a Green card and get a new Green card keep it in a secure place especially while traveling.
2. In a situation where you are required to replace a lost Green Card, having a copy of your Green card can speed up the process. So, make sure to have copies of your Green card.

Conclusion

So, if you need help in replacing your Green card just know that Visament makes the Green Card replacement process easy, fast, and hassle-free. Whether you have lost it, got stolen, or want to update the details, VisaMent is your reliable partner for all immigration solutions.

Start your application today with Visament and get professional help at every step of the way!