what should i do if my green card is lost or stolen?
Losing your green card or having it stolen can be a stressful experience, but it's important to take immediate action to replace it.
Steps to Take If Your Green Card Is Lost or Stolen
1. Report the Loss or Theft
Local Police: Report the loss or theft to your local police department. This can help protect you from identity theft and may be required when you apply for a replacement card.
USCIS: While not mandatory, you can report the loss or theft to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by calling their customer service center.
2. Apply for a Replacement Green Card
Form I-90: File Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, with USCIS. This form can be filed online or by mail.
Supporting Documents: Include a copy of your police report (if available), a copy of your lost or stolen green card (if available), and other identification documents such as a passport, driver's license, or birth certificate.
Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee for Form I-90 (check the latest fee schedule on the USCIS website).
3. Submit Biometrics
Biometrics Appointment: After submitting Form I-90, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for you to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature.
Appointment Notice: You will receive a notice with the date, time, and location of your biometrics appointment.
4. Monitor Your Application Status
USCIS Case Status Online: Use the USCIS Case Status Online tool to track the status of your Form I-90 application using your receipt number.
Processing Time: The processing time for a replacement green card can vary, so regularly check the status and be patient.
Traveling Without a Green Card
Travel Document: If you need to travel outside the United States and your green card is lost or stolen, apply for a boarding foil (Form I-131A) at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. This document allows you to return to the United States.
Emergency Travel: For emergency travel, contact USCIS or the U.S. embassy/consulate for guidance.
Preventing Future Loss or Theft
Secure Storage: Keep your green card in a safe and secure place, and avoid carrying it with you unless absolutely necessary.
Photocopies: Make photocopies of your green card and other important documents and keep them in a secure location.
Keywords
Lost green card, stolen green card, Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, USCIS, biometrics appointment, travel document, boarding foil, replacement green card, identity theft, secure storage, document loss prevention.
Conclusion
If your green card is lost or stolen, it's crucial to take immediate steps to report the loss and apply for a replacement. By following the outlined steps and staying informed about the status of your application, you can minimize the disruption and ensure you maintain your legal status in the United States.
If you have any questions or need legal assistance with replacing your green card, please contact Liang Law at (408) 780-8862. We are here to help you through every step of the process.