The loss or theft of a green card This can become a headache for legal permanent residents in the United States.
It can happen after a robbery, during a trip abroad, because of the destruction of documents in a natural disaster or simply when the time comes to carry out a procedure and the card no longer appears.
Although losing the card does not mean losing permanent residency, it can make it difficult to prove immigration status, return to the United States, or replace a document whose replacement can take several months.
Enlace Latino NC She consulted Mariela García, an immigration lawyer at MGA Immigration, and reviewed official USCIS information to explain what to do in each case.
Does losing a green card mean losing residency?
No. Losing the physical card does not mean losing permanent residency. The green card is the document that proves that status, but the immigration status does not disappear because the card was lost, stolen, or damaged.
However, not having the card can cause problems proving residency to an employer, airline, or immigration authority. It can also complicate certain procedures while you wait for a replacement.
García recommends treating the green card like any other important document. “It’s a document that, like a driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate, should be kept safe and a copy should be kept on hand,” he explained.
What should you do if you lost it inside the United States?
If you have already confirmed that the card does not appear, the next step is request a replacement from USCIS using Form I-90.
The application can be submitted online or by mail. According to USCIS, this form is used to replace a lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed permanent resident card.
García explained that this is the procedure when a person simply loses their green card. The sooner they begin the process, the faster they can obtain a new card.
What should you do if you lose your green card while traveling abroad?
Losing your green card outside the United States changes the procedure. Before attempting to return, attorney García recommends contacting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate "to avoid problems upon returning to the United States."
According to the lawyer, this step can prevent problems both with the airline when boarding the flight and with immigration authorities upon arrival in the country.
USCIS explains that, in these cases, some people may need to file Form I-131A to request documentation that will allow them to board an airplane or other means of transportation to the United States when their green card was lost, stolen, or destroyed during a temporary trip.
This documentation does not replace the green card. Its purpose is to allow the person to return to the United States so that, once in the country, they can apply for a new card through the appropriate process.
What happens if it was stolen?
When a green card disappears due to theft, there is an additional step that does not apply in all cases: filing a police report.
Attorney Garcia recommends doing so whether the theft occurred in the United States or abroad, and notifying immigration authorities of the incident to reduce the risk of potential identity theft.
He also warned that if someone else misuses the card, it could have immigration consequences for the actual holder of the residency.
After making the report, the person must follow the appropriate procedure depending on where the loss occurred.
Is it advisable to keep a copy of the green card?
Yes. Having a photograph or photocopy of your green card can make the process easier if the card is lost, stolen, or damaged. Having that copy allows you to access the document's information when it's time to request a replacement or complete another immigration process.
Attorney Garcia recommends keeping a digital copy on your phone and another in a safe place at home.
It is also advisable to keep other documents related to immigration status, such as notices from USCIS, the A number, or copies of filed forms, as they may be useful if it is necessary to provide information about the case or request a replacement.
What documents might you need for Form I-90?
USCIS instructions for Form I-90 state that if the card was lost, stolen, or destroyed, the person must submit a copy of their green card or an official identification document that includes their name, date of birth, photograph, and signature. This could be, for example, a passport, a driver's license or a military ID.
How much does the replacement cost and how long does it take?
Immigration fees may changeBefore submitting your application, USCIS recommends checking the current fee schedule on their fee page. Processing times also vary.
García noted that the replacement process can take several months or even up to two years, so he recommends starting the process as soon as possible.
If the person needs temporary proof of their status while waiting for the new card, they should review the options available with USCIS or consult with an immigration attorney.
Recommendations to avoid problems
- Always review the most recent USCIS instructions before starting the replacement process.
- Keep your green card in a safe place, but remember where it is.
- Keep a photograph or photocopy of the document on your phone and another at home.
- If the card was stolen, file a police report and notify immigration authorities.
- If the loss occurred during a trip, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate before attempting to return.
Editor's Note: This guide compiles general information based on official sources and an interview with an immigration attorney. It is not a substitute for legal advice. If you have questions about your case or are facing a specific situation, it is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney before making any decisions.
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