Obtaining lawful permanent residence in the United States is the ultimate goal for many foreign nationals. Lawful permanent residence, also known as a green card, represents physical evidence of an individual’s authorization to reside and work in the U.S. It’s also a fundamental document required for re-entry into the U.S. after international travel. If you’ve lost your green card, there’s no need to panic, as an experienced Middlesex County, New Jersey, Green Card Lawyer can help you take the necessary steps to replace it.
How Do I Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Green Card?
One of the conditions of holding a green card in the United States is that you will have this document on you at all times. As such, realizing that your card has been stolen, lost, or damaged can be incredibly stressful. It’s important to understand that, if these circumstances occur, there are steps you can take to replace your card.
File Form I-90 Inside the United States
If your green card is lost, stolen, or damaged, to replace or renew it, you must file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, provide supporting documentation, and pay the filing fee. Under the law, those granted permanent residence must always have a valid, unexpired green card. It’s crucial to note that you must be physically present in the U.S. to replace your green card
What If I Lost My Green Card While Outside the U.S.?
In the event that you lose your green card while outside of the United States, it can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming time. However, it’s important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to return to the United States.
Step 1: Report the Loss
Generally, you should begin this process by notifying the local police of the loss. Though this is not required, having a police report can assist in the process. You must also contact the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate for assistance.
Step 2: Apply for a Boarding Foil
Without your green card, you cannot board a flight headed to the United States, even if that is the location where your original flight originated. As such, you must take the following steps:
- File Form I-31A, Application for Carrier Documentation
- Pay the non-refundable $575 filing fee
Doing so allows the airline to permit your boarding so you may return to the United States
Step 3: File Form I-90 After Returning to the United States
Form I-31A does not replace your green card. This is intended only to get you back into the United States. Upon returning to the United States, you must submit Form I-90 when you return.
How Much Does It Take To Renew My Green Card?
Generally, the standard green card replacement fee is $455, alongside an additional $85 for biometric services, resulting in a total of $540. In some cases, applicants must pay the filing fee or be ordered to pay the biometrics fee only.
In some instances, you may be eligible to waive these fees using Form I-912 if you can show proof of financial hardship.
How Long Does It Take To Get A New One?
If you recall the amount of time it took to obtain your green card in the first place, you may be concerned about how long it will take to get a replacement. Fortunately, this process is typically shorter than the initial one. However, it can still be a slow process.
Need Proof Sooner?
If you filed Form I-90 but need temporary proof of your status as a green card holder, you can schedule an appointment at a USCIS office to obtain an “Alien Documentation Identification & Telecommunications” (ADIT) stamp on your passport. This stamp can be used as a temporary green card.
What Happens If My Application Is Denied?
Unfortunately, USCIS may deny your green card replacement application for various reasons.
Common Reasons for Denial
- Misrepresentation
- Inconsistent identity information
- Existing removal/deportation proceedings
- Criminal issues
- Incomplete documentation
You Cannot Appeal, But You Can File a Motion
While you can’t appeal this decision, you can file a motion requesting USCIS to reconsider its decision. To do this, you must file Form I-290B, “Notice of the Appeal or Motion,” within 30 days of the initial decision. It’s crucial to note that this requires a $675 filing fee. However, you can request a fee waiver if you face extreme financial hardship.
Connect With an Experienced Middlesex County Immigration Attorney
When you realize that your green card is lost, taking immediate steps is critical. However, this process can be incredibly difficult to navigate. If you need to replace your green card, please get in touch with a committed lawyer from the Law Offices of Aditya Surti, LLC, who can help you through each phase of the process ahead.