Lost your green card and don’t know what to do next? Losing your green card can be stressful, but acting quickly is essential to protect your identity and get a replacement.
Whether your lost residence card was stolen or misplaced, this guide will walk you through the process so you know exactly how to replace lost green card without any confusion.
What Are the Immediate Steps After Your Green Card Is Stolen?
If your green card has been stolen, it’s important to act quickly to protect your identity and start the replacement process. Here are the necessary actions to take:
- Secure Your Personal Information: Make sure your other important documents, your passport, Social Security card, and ID, are safe. This helps you prevent further identity issues.
- File a Police Report: Reporting the theft to local police is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. A police report creates an official record, helps protect you from identity theft, and can support your replacement application.
- Start the Replacement Process Immediately: Go to the USCIS website and file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). This is the only official way to request a new green card.
- Monitor Your Identity and Accounts: After the theft, keep an eye on your credit reports and bank activity. If needed, place a fraud alert to prevent misuse of your information.
- Avoid Travel Until You Receive a Replacement: Do not travel outside the U.S. without your green card. If you must travel, you’ll need temporary travel documents from USCIS or a U.S. embassy.
Which Forms Do You Need to Fill Out to Replace a Stolen Green Card?
To replace a stolen Green Card, you must submit Form I-90, which is the official application used by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to issue a new Permanent Resident Card.
1. Application to Replace a Green Card (Form I-90)
This is the only required form for replacing a stolen green card. You can file it in two ways:
- Online through your USCIS account
- By mail using the paper application
2. What You Need for Form I-90
While filing, you must provide:
- Personal information
- Details about the stolen Green Card
- If you filed a police complaint, a copy of it
- Identity proof like a passport or driver’s license
3. When to Use Other USCIS Forms
You do not need any additional USCIS forms unless:
- You are outside the U.S. (then you may need to contact a U.S. embassy for temporary travel documents)
- You need fee waiver documents (Form I-912)
4. Why Form I-90 Is Essential
USCIS will not issue a replacement Green Card unless Form I-90 is correctly submitted and approved.
What Documents Are Required to Replace a Stolen Green Card?
To replace a stolen Green Card, USCIS requires specific documents to verify your identity and confirm your permanent resident status. Having these documents ready helps prevent delays in your Form I-90 application.
Documents You May Need
- Copy of your stolen Green Card (if available)
- Valid identification document (passport, driver’s license, or state ID)
- Police report for the stolen Green Card (optional but recommended)
- Proof of permanent resident status (I-797 approval notice, immigrant visa, or I-551 stamp)
- Passport-style photo (only if USCIS requests it later)
USCIS needs these documents to confirm your identity and ensure that you are the lawful owner of the green card being replaced. If you have a copy of your stolen card, it helps speed up processing, but USCIS accepts other forms of identity proof if you do not have it.
A police report is not mandatory, but it can strengthen your application and protect you from identity theft. Make sure the documents you upload are clear, readable, and up to date to avoid delays or USCIS requests for additional evidence.
What Fees Are Involved in Replacing a Stolen Green Card?
Replacing a stolen Green Card requires paying USCIS filing fees. These fees cover the processing of Form I-90 and your biometrics appointment.
- Form I-90 filing fee
- Biometrics fee
- Fee waiver option (Form I-912)
- Online vs. paper application cost
- Payment methods accepted by USCIS
USCIS currently charges a filing fee and a biometrics fee for green card replacement. However, some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver if they meet certain financial requirements. It’s important to check the latest fee updates on the USCIS website because fees can change.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Replacement Green Card?
Replacing a stolen green card takes time because USCIS must verify your identity, review your Form I-90, and issue a new card. Processing times can vary based on your location and USCIS workload.
Estimated Processing Times
- 8 to 14 months for most Form I-90 applications
- Extra time if USCIS requests more documents (RFE)
- Faster updates if you file online
- Slower processing during high-volume months
- Tracking available through your USCIS online account
In most cases, USCIS takes several months to review and approve a replacement Green Card request. Your biometrics appointment and any additional document requests can also influence the timeline. Applicants who file online usually receive updates more quickly and can track their case in real-time.
It’s critical to keep in mind that these processing times are only approximations. USCIS regularly updates its timelines, so checking the current processing time for Form I-90 on the official website is always recommended.
Secure Your Green Card Today:
Replacing a stolen or lost Green Card may seem complicated, but knowing the right steps makes it much easier.
Key Takeaways:
- Act quickly to protect your identity
- File Form I-90 and submit all required documents
- Monitor your accounts and be cautious with travel
If you’ve lost your Green Card, follow these steps to secure your identity and get a permanent resident card replacement efficiently.
ImmigrationVision is here to guide you through the process of filing your application for Green Card replacement and managing your lost residence card concerns.
FAQs About Replacing a Green Card
Q1. What should I do if I don’t have a copy of your green card?
Ans. If you don’t have a copy, you can still file Form I-90 with other identity documents like your passport or driver’s license. ImmigrationVision can guide you through the process.
Q2. How can I replace my green card if I am outside the U.S.?
Ans. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for temporary travel documents and guidance. ImmigrationVision helps you understand the steps and ensures a smooth replacement process.
Q3. How do I replace a lost or stolen green card (Permanent Resident Card)?
To replace a lost or stolen green card, file Form I-90 online or by mail, provide required identity documents (passport, driver’s license, etc.), attend any requested biometrics appointments, and monitor your USCIS updates. ImmigrationVision offers expert guidance throughout the entire process to ensure a smooth replacement.
Q4. Which documents are required to replace a green card?
Ans. Required documents include your identity proof (passport/ID), police report (if available), and evidence of permanent resident status. Clear documents prevent delays.
Q5. How quickly can I get a replacement Green Card?
Ans. Processing usually takes 8–14 months, depending on USCIS workload and additional document requests. Filing online helps track updates faster.
Q6. How much does it cost to replace a green card?
Ans. Replacing a green card typically costs $455 for Form I-90 filing, plus $85 biometrics fee if required. ImmigrationVision guides you through the payment and filing process.
