Losing your green card can be a stressful and confusing experience. As a permanent resident of the United States, your green card is a crucial document that serves as proof of your status. Without it, you might face challenges in proving your right to live and work in the U.S., traveling, or accessing certain services. This article will guide you through the steps to take if you lose your green card, how to avoid potential pitfalls, and what to expect during the replacement process.
Understanding the Importance of Your Green Card
Your green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), is an identification document that confirms your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. It is essential for various activities, including:
- Proof of Status: The green card proves your right to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- Travel: It is necessary for re-entering the United States after traveling abroad.
- Employment: Employers need to verify your work authorization.
- Identification: It serves as a form of identification within the U.S.
Losing this card means you lose a significant piece of identification and proof of your status, which can create numerous legal and practical challenges.
Immediate Steps to Take When You Lose Your Green Card
1. Stay Calm: Losing your green card can be distressing, but it’s important to remain calm and take immediate action.
2. Report the Loss: If you believe your green card was stolen, report it to the local police. This can provide a record of the loss, which might be useful for the replacement process and protecting yourself from potential identity theft.
3. Check Everywhere: Before proceeding with the replacement process, thoroughly check all places where the card might be, including your home, workplace, and any places you frequently visit.
4. Notify USCIS: You should notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about the loss. While not mandatory, this can help protect your status in case someone tries to misuse your card.
Applying for a Replacement Green Card
If you cannot locate your green card, you will need to apply for a replacement. The process involves several steps:
1. Filing Form I-90
The primary form for replacing a lost green card is Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form can be filed online or by mail.
Steps to File Form I-90:
Online Filing:
- Create a USCIS online account.
- Fill out the form, providing all required information.
- Upload supporting documents, such as a copy of your lost green card (if available), passport, or other identification.
- Pay the filing fee using a credit/debit card or bank account.
Mail Filing:
- Download and print Form I-90 from the USCIS website.
- Complete the form accurately, following the instructions provided.
- Include a check or money order for the filing fee.
- Mail the form and supporting documents to the address specified in the instructions.
2. Pay the Filing Fee
The filing fee for Form I-90 is $455, plus an $85 biometric services fee, totaling $540. The fee can be paid online or by check/money order if filing by mail.
3. Attend a Biometrics Appointment
After submitting Form I-90, you will receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. This appointment is mandatory and involves providing your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. It is crucial to attend this appointment, as it is part of the background check process.
4. Track Your Application
You can track the status of your application through your USCIS online account. This allows you to see updates and estimated processing times.
SEE ALSO: Is IR5 Visa a Green Card?
Traveling Without a Green Card
Traveling without your green card can be challenging, but it is possible with the right preparation.
Domestic Travel
For domestic travel within the U.S., you can use other forms of identification, such as:
- State-issued driver’s license or ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
International Travel
International travel without a green card is more complicated. If you need to travel outside the U.S. before receiving your replacement green card, consider the following steps:
1. Apply for a Boarding Foil: If you are abroad and lose your green card, you can apply for a boarding foil (Form I-131A) at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. This document allows you to board a flight back to the U.S.
2. Use Advance Parole: If you have an approved advance parole document, you can use it to re-enter the U.S. in place of a green card.
3. Carry a Copy of Your Green Card: While not a replacement, a photocopy of your lost green card, along with other identification, can help in certain situations.
Replacing a Green Card While Abroad
If you lose your green card while outside the U.S., the process can be more complicated and time-consuming. Follow these steps:
1. Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: Report the loss and seek guidance on obtaining a boarding foil or other necessary documentation to return to the U.S.
2. File Form I-131A: Apply for a boarding foil using Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation). This form can be filed at the embassy or consulate.
3. Provide Required Documentation: Submit proof of your identity and status, such as a passport, a copy of your lost green card (if available), and other supporting documents.
4. Pay the Filing Fee: The filing fee for Form I-131A is $575. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application.
5. Attend an Interview: You may be required to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate as part of the process.
Potential Issues and How to Address Them
Identity Theft
If your green card is stolen, there is a risk of identity theft. Here are steps to protect yourself:
1. Monitor Your Credit: Regularly check your credit reports for any unauthorized activity. You can request free reports from the major credit bureaus annually.
2. Place a Fraud Alert: Contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This alert notifies creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
3. File an Identity Theft Report: If you suspect identity theft, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your local police department.
Employment Verification
While waiting for your replacement green card, you may face challenges with employment verification. To address this:
1. Use an Employment Authorization Document (EAD): If you have an EAD, it can serve as proof of your right to work.
2. Show Other Proof of Status: Present other documentation that proves your permanent resident status, such as a passport with an I-551 stamp.
3. Request an Interim Document: In some cases, USCIS may issue an interim document to prove your status while your replacement green card is being processed.
Conclusion
Losing your green card can be a significant inconvenience, but it is a manageable situation with the right steps. By promptly reporting the loss, applying for a replacement, and taking necessary precautions, you can navigate the process smoothly. Remember to keep track of your application status and seek assistance from USCIS or an immigration attorney if you encounter any issues. With patience and diligence, you can successfully replace your lost green card and continue to enjoy your rights and privileges as a permanent resident of the United States.