Lost Green Card (Abroad or U.S.) | How to Replace a Green Card using Form I-90 + Pandemic Tips

TL;DR

Learn how to replace a lost green card in the US or abroad, including fees, forms, and processing times.

Transcript

If you've lost your green card, do not freak out. It is replaceable, but it will cost some money. Today, I will explain how to replace your green card, both in the US and abroad, how much it costs and how long it will take. Be sure to stay until the end of the video, where I talk about how the process has been affected by the pandemic and what to d... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤱 Form I-90 is used to replace a lost green card in the US, and it requires a filing fee of $455 and a biometrics fee of $85.
• 💁 The USCIS provides instructions on how to fill out Form I-90, and it is important to follow them carefully.
• 💌 The USCIS mails the green card to a US address, and the processing time can range from 4.5 to 12 months.
• 🗃️ If the green card is lost abroad, Form I-131A must be filed at the nearest US embassy or consulate.
• 😚 Due to the pandemic, US consulates may have limited in-person appointments for replacing lost green cards.
• 💚 Some countries may require a police report for lost or stolen green cards, so it is important to inquire about this when scheduling an appointment at the consulate.
• 💚 If the replacement green card has not arrived and travel is necessary, an I-551 stamp can be obtained in the passport at a USCIS field office.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do I replace a lost green card in the US?

To replace a lost green card in the US, file Form I-90 with a copy of your green card or government ID. Pay the filing fee and biometrics fee. After filing, you will receive a receipt notice and a biometrics appointment. The green card will be mailed to a US address.

Q: Can I replace a lost green card while abroad?

If you lose your green card while abroad, you cannot file Form I-90. Instead, you need to file Form I-131A at the nearest US embassy or consulate. Pay the fee online and apply for travel authorization in person. Without a green card, you cannot enter the US.

Q: How long does it take to replace a lost green card in the US?

The USCIS website states that it takes 4.5 to 12 months to process Form I-90. However, due to the pandemic, it may take longer. Consulting an immigration attorney can provide a better estimate based on recent client experiences.

Q: What should I do if I need to travel before my replacement green card arrives?

If your replacement green card has not arrived and you need to travel within the US, you can get an I-551 stamp in your passport. Schedule an appointment at a USCIS field office and bring your Notice of Action (I-797C) with you. Contact the USCIS contact center for more information.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• To replace a lost green card in the US, file Form I-90 along with a copy of your green card or government ID. Pay the filing fee of $455 and biometrics fee of $85.

• After filing, you will receive a receipt notice and a biometrics appointment. The green card will be mailed to a US address in 4.5 to 12 months.

• If abroad, file Form I-131A at the nearest US embassy or consulate. Pay a fee of $575 online and apply for travel authorization in person. Consulates have limited in-person appointments due to the pandemic.