What to do if your Green Card is Lost?

Do you know what to do if your Green Card is lost? The first thing you need to know to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Green Card, is you need to fill out Form I-90. This form is called the “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.

In this post, you will discover how to replace a lost or stolen Green Card! Check it out!

Discover what to do if your Green Card is Lost 

After filing Form I-90 you must provide supporting documentation and pay a filing fee if necessary. Keep in mind there are other reasons you might need to replace your Green Card. This post will walk you through the process, which is very similar to renewing this document.

According to USCIS information, you must replace your green card if:

• Your green card was damaged, lost, or stolen;
• Your green card was issued before you turned 14, you are now 14 years old, and your card will expire after you turn 16;
• Your green card was issued with incorrect information;
• You never received your original green card;

According to USCIS information, there are other situations you should replace your green card if:

• You legally changed your name or other personal information;
• You have a commuter green card;
• You have a regular green card but want to switch to a commuter green card;
• You have an outdated version of the green card, such as Form AR-3, Form AR-103 or Form I-151.
• You gained permanent residence automatically;
• Your green card has no expiration date;

How to Replace Your Green Card

If you need to replace your Green Card, you must fill out and file Form I-90 as we said above. Keep in mind Form I-90 can only be filed from within the U.S., so if you’re traveling abroad, you’ll need to wait until you return before requesting a replacement document.

If your Green Card gets lost or stolen while you’re traveling, you will you’ll have to take some extra steps, because you need your green card to reenter the U.S.

So, for getting a replacement Green Card, whether you’re in the United States:

You can file your I-90 either online or by mail. If you file online or by mail, follow these steps to replace a Green Card:

• Complete Form I-90;
• Review and sign your form;
• Submit your form, supporting documents, and filing fee (if required);

Remind that the supporting documents you need can change depending on why you’re replacing your Green Card, but will usually you will provide a photocopy of your Green Card, and a copy of another government-issued ID, or other evidence of your status and biographical information.

If you’re outside the United States, the process of getting a replacement document is more complex. You’ll need to return to the U.S. before filing Form I-90, but there are some extra steps you’ll have to take first.

If your Green Card is lost or stolen while traveling abroad, you should first notify the local police. Request a police report, then contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for further instructions.

In general, to return to the U.S., you will need to apply for a “boarding foil” to communicate to local authorities you are allowed to travel to the United States. To do this, you’ll have to complete Form I-131A, called the “Application for a Travel Document, and pay a $575 filing fee.

Once you’re back in the United States, file your I-90 Form to get a replacement Green Card.

If your Green Card expires while traveling abroad, you might face problems boarding your return flight and could even be denied permission to reenter the U.S. If your visa has expired, you will need to renew your Green Card before returning to the U.S.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Your Green Card?

The fee is $455, plus $85 for biometric services, for a total of $540. Some applicants do not have to pay or must pay only the biometrics fee according to USCIS criteria.

How Long Does It Take to Get a New Green Card?

The processing time to replace a lost or stolen Green Card is 6-9.5 months, in general.

Are you renewing or replacing your Green Card? We can help with some information you complete your application, including all forms and supporting documents. Contact Us!