How Much is the Fee for Lost Green Card?

Losing your Green Card can be a stressful experience, but it’s important to understand that you can replace it through a relatively straightforward process. The Green Card serves as proof of permanent resident status in the United States, and without it, you may face difficulties when traveling, working, or proving your legal status in the country. One of the first things you will need to do if you lose your Green Card is to apply for a replacement, which comes with a fee and specific steps to follow. In this article, we will explain the fees associated with replacing a lost Green Card, the steps involved in the process, and other important information that can help you navigate the situation smoothly.

Understanding the Green Card Replacement Process

Before diving into the costs and fees, it’s essential to understand the process for replacing a lost Green Card. When your Green Card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to apply for a replacement card. This process involves submitting a specific form to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with supporting documentation and payment of the required fee.

Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

To replace a lost Green Card, you must file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This is the official document used by USCIS to process requests for Green Card replacement. It can be filed online or by mail, depending on your preference.

The process for filing Form I-90 is relatively simple but requires careful attention to detail. If you lose your Green Card, you should act quickly to prevent any complications or issues with your permanent resident status.

When Should You Apply for a Green Card Replacement?

You should apply for a replacement Green Card as soon as possible after losing your original card. There is no specific deadline for applying, but delaying the process could result in difficulties when proving your legal status, particularly when traveling, working, or interacting with government agencies. For instance, if you plan to travel outside the United States, a lost Green Card may complicate reentry into the country.

In some cases, such as if your Green Card is stolen, you should also file a report with local authorities. This can help protect you in case of identity theft and may be required when submitting your application for a replacement card.

Common Reasons for Green Card Replacement

While losing your Green Card is a primary reason for applying for a replacement, there are other situations where you may need to replace your card. Common reasons for filing Form I-90 include:

Lost, stolen, or destroyed Green Card

A Green Card that has expired or will expire soon

A name change (due to marriage, divorce, or personal reasons)

A change in the physical appearance of the cardholder (e.g., changes to hair color, facial features, etc.)

A card with errors made by USCIS (in some cases)

In each of these scenarios, you would follow the same process for replacing the card, though the specific documentation required may vary depending on the reason for the replacement request.

Green Card Replacement Fees

One of the most critical aspects of replacing your Green Card is the associated fee. USCIS requires a fee for processing the I-90 application, and this fee must be paid at the time you submit your application. As of the latest updates in 2023, the fee for filing Form I-90 is as follows:

Standard Fee for Green Card Replacement

The filing fee for Form I-90 is $455. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and issuing the replacement card. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or rejected for some reason.

Biometrics Fee

In addition to the filing fee, applicants are generally required to pay a $85 biometrics fee. Biometrics refers to the process of submitting your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to USCIS for identification purposes. This fee is mandatory for most applicants, although there are some exceptions for individuals under the age of 14 or over the age of 79.

When submitting your application online, you will be required to pay both the filing fee and the biometrics fee at the same time. If you are submitting your application by mail, you must include both fees in your payment.

Total Fee

The total fee for replacing a Green Card is typically $540 ($455 for the application and $85 for biometrics). However, if you are applying for a fee waiver or exemption, you may be able to reduce or eliminate this cost. USCIS provides guidelines for individuals who may qualify for a fee waiver based on financial hardship or other qualifying factors.

Fee Waiver for Green Card Replacement

In some cases, applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver for the I-90 application and biometrics fees. USCIS allows applicants to request a fee waiver if they can demonstrate that paying the fees would cause significant financial hardship. To request a fee waiver, you must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your I-90 application.

Some of the factors that may make you eligible for a fee waiver include:

You are receiving government assistance or benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

You have a low income based on federal poverty guidelines

You have a disability or are elderly and unable to work

It is important to note that fee waivers are not granted automatically, and USCIS evaluates each request on a case-by-case basis. If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver, you should submit the appropriate forms and documentation with your application.

How to Pay the Green Card Replacement Fee

There are several ways to pay the Green Card replacement fee, depending on how you are submitting your application.

Online Payment

If you are filing Form I-90 online through the USCIS website, you can pay the fee using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. USCIS accepts payments from major credit card companies, and you can complete the payment process electronically during the online application submission.

Mail-in Payment

If you choose to file your application by mail, you will need to pay by check or money order. The payment should be made payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). USCIS does not accept cash payments, so you must use a check or money order.

It is important to ensure that the payment is correct and included with your application package. If the fee is not paid or is incorrect, your application may be delayed or rejected.

Processing Time for Green Card Replacement

The processing time for a lost Green Card replacement can vary based on several factors, including USCIS workload and whether there are any issues with your application. On average, the process takes approximately 8 to 10 months from the time USCIS receives your application. During this time, USCIS will review your application, conduct background checks, and schedule your biometrics appointment.

Once your application is approved, your replacement Green Card will be mailed to the address provided on your application. In some cases, if USCIS requires additional documentation or if your application is incomplete, the processing time may be extended.

Biometrics Appointment

After you submit your Form I-90, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). This appointment is required for most applicants, and failure to attend the appointment may result in delays or rejection of your application.

During the biometrics appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. The appointment typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and you should bring your appointment notice and a valid government-issued photo ID.

What to Do if You Lose Your Green Card

If you lose your Green Card, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself:

Report the Loss: If you believe your Green Card was stolen, you should file a police report. This helps prevent identity theft and may be required by USCIS during your application process.

Check for any Mistakes: Before applying for a replacement, ensure that the loss was not due to an error or misunderstanding, and make sure all your personal information is correct.

Apply for a Replacement: Follow the steps outlined above to file Form I-90 and pay the appropriate fees. It is crucial to apply as soon as possible to avoid complications in proving your permanent resident status.

Conclusion

Losing your Green Card is a stressful situation, but the process for replacing it is relatively straightforward. The current fee for replacing a lost Green Card is $455 for the Form I-90 application and $85 for biometrics, making the total cost $540. However, fee waivers are available for individuals who meet certain criteria.

While the replacement process may take several months, it is important to act promptly to avoid issues with your legal status, particularly if you plan to travel or work. If you are unsure about the application process or have specific questions regarding your situation, it may be beneficial to consult with an immigration attorney who can guide you through the process and help ensure that your Green Card replacement is processed smoothly.