What to do if your Green Card is Lost

 For any permanent resident, the loss of one’s green card whether at home or while traveling can prove to be a serious immigration problem. Many questions are often asked as to whether there is a need for one to replace such green cards and the procedure to be followed if you ever need to replace a lost green card . Here are a few tips and important information that you need to know when replacing your green card.

There are two main options available to persons who have lost their green cards. The options are based on whether the green card was lost while in the United States or while traveling abroad. If you lost your green card while in The United States, the process for replacement is relatively easy. This involves filling out the form I-90, typically named “Application for Green Card Replacement.” You should note that you should keep copies of everything that you submit, just in case, there were any errors that were encountered when processing the form. Also be sure to send the form as well as all enclosed documents to the right place which will depend on your exact location. To ensure that your documents are sent safely, ensure that all correspondence between you and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service is carried out via certified mail. You should also request a return receipt.

If you happen to lose your green card while outside the United States, then you will have to file for a waiver of the document. You could also apply for a transportation letter that will permit your entry into the United States. The documents that you may require for this purpose include a valid passport, a police report, as well as proof that you have been living outside of the United States for more than a year. An example of such proof may include an entry stamp on your passport or an airline ticket.

Filing of the I-90 form is mandatory for both cases. A charge of about 130 dollars is normally added to the application fee. You should always be sure to double check the fee as well as your preferred method of payment a few days before you plan to leave especially if you want to enter the United States.

By U.S. Immigration Services

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