How To Replace Your Green Card

The Green Card (USCIS Form I-551), also known as Permanent Resident Card, is a proof of permanent resident status in the United States. Without a valid card, it may be difficult for you to prove that you are a permanent resident, and it might affect your ability to travel or to prove your eligibility to work in the United States.



When do you need to replace your Green Card?



You are required to apply for a replacement Green Card in the following reasons and situations:

*If any information on your card needs to be changed, for example, if your name has legally changed due to marriage or divorce;



*If your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged;



*If you became a permanent resident before you turned 14 years old. You are required to replace your card when you become 14 years old;



*If your card is about to expire. This does not apply to you if you are a conditional permanent resident whose green card is about to expire (see below);



*If your Permanent Resident Card was issued with incorrect information because of an administrative error made by the USCIS;



*If you never received the previous card that was issued to you by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS);



*If you have a previous version of the alien registration card which is no longer valid (e.g., USCIS Form AR-3, Form AR-103 or Form I-151)