Losing your green card, having it stolen or damaged can be stressful. It’s more than just a piece of plastic. Your green card is proof of your lawful permanent resident (LPR) status in the U.S. Without it, everyday things like getting a job, re-entering the country, or even renewing your driver’s license can suddenly become much harder.
Whether your card was lost, stolen, or damaged, or you simply need a new one due to a name change, there’s no need to panic. The process of applying for a duplicate green card is straightforward if you know what to do.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything: when and why you need to replace your green card, how to fill out Form I-90, what it costs, how long it takes, and what to expect while waiting.
When Do You Need a Green Card Replacement?
First, let’s clear up when you need a replacement versus a renewal:
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Lost Green Card
Losing a green card happens more often than you might think. Maybe you moved and packed it away in a box that’s now lost in the shuffle. Or perhaps it fell out of your pocket while you were out running errands. The important thing is if you don’t have your card, you need to replace it immediately. Without it, proving your legal status can be difficult.
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Stolen Green Card
If your green card was stolen, you need to act quickly. File a police report as soon as possible to document the theft. This report protects you if someone tries to misuse your card and is also something USCIS will want to see during your replacement application.
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Damaged Green Card
Your green card might get damaged without you even realizing it — a rip, crack, fading ink, or water damage can all make your card unreadable or unacceptable as proof of status. If your card is damaged, replacing it is the best option.
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Name Changes
If you legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or any reason, your green card won’t automatically update. You’ll want to replace it to reflect your new legal name. This helps avoid confusion when using your card for work or travel.
Replacement vs. Renewal: What’s the Difference?
Renewal happens when your green card is expiring or already expired, but you still have it. Replacement is when you don’t have your card because it’s lost, stolen, or damaged. Both require filing Form I-90, but the reasons and circumstances differ.
What Should You Do If Your Green Card Is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?
First, don’t panic. There’s a clear path forward, and here’s what you should do:
- For a stolen card, consider filing a police report. It’s not required by USCIS, but it can help protect against identity theft and support your application.
- Act quickly. The sooner you file Form I-90, the sooner you’ll have your new card. Delays could affect your ability to work or travel.
- Gather supporting documents. You’ll need ID, proof of status, and potentially an affidavit explaining what happened.
Being proactive is key. Waiting too long to report a lost or stolen card can cause problems later on.
How Do You Apply for a Duplicate Green Card?
The main form you need is called Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. USCIS uses this form for both replacements and renewals. Here’s the process:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before starting the application, collect documents that prove your identity and your permanent resident status. This might include:
- A copy of your lost or damaged green card (if you have it)
- Your passport with U.S. entry stamps
- Any prior USCIS notices or documents related to your residency
Step 2: Fill Out Form I-90
You can file Form I-90 online through the USCIS website or mail a paper application. Online filing is generally faster and lets you track your case more easily.
The form will ask for personal information, the reason for your application, and some details about your immigration history.
Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee
The total fee for filing Form I-90 is $415 if you’re filing online and $465 for paper filing.
You can pay online with a credit card or include a check or money order when mailing your application.
Step 4: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After USCIS receives your application, they will schedule you for a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center. This involves fingerprinting and taking your photo.
Step 5: Wait for Your New Card
Once you complete your biometrics, USCIS will process your application and mail your new green card to the address on file.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Replacement Card?
Processing times vary by USCIS office, but here’s what you can generally expect:
- Application processing: Can take up to 4 months or more.
- Biometrics appointment: Scheduled about 4 to 6 weeks after USCIS receives your form.
- Tracking: You’ll get a receipt number after filing, which you can use to check your case status online.
Keep in mind that delays often happen if USCIS requests additional evidence, or your application is incomplete. Filing carefully the first time is the best way to avoid extra waiting.
Can You Work or Travel While Waiting?
Good news: your legal permanent resident status does not expire just because your physical card is lost or is being replaced.
- Work: You can keep working while waiting, but your employer might ask for other documents to verify your employment eligibility (I-9). Alternatives include a valid passport or driver’s license plus a Social Security card.
- Travel: Traveling within the U.S. is fine, but international travel is tricky without your green card. If you need to travel abroad, you’ll likely need a special travel document called a boarding foil issued by a U.S. consulate. This process takes time, so avoid international trips if possible until you get your new card.
- Temporary Proof: If you urgently need proof of status for work or travel, you can contact USCIS for an I-551 stamp on your passport. This acts as temporary proof of your permanent resident status.
Final Thoughts
Losing, damaging, or having your green card stolen can be stressful, but the replacement process is manageable if you act quickly and carefully.
Remember:
- File Form I-90 promptly.
- Report theft to the police.
- Keep copies of all documents.
- Attend your biometrics appointment.
- Be patient. USCIS processing times can be long.
Your permanent resident status remains valid throughout this process, so don’t panic if you don’t have your card in hand yet. Taking the right steps early on keeps you protected and on track.
If you need help navigating your specific situation, visit Immigration Question to ask your questions on the open forum, where experienced attorneys answer you within hours. You can also get professional consultations that will help you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I replace my green card if it is lost or stolen?
File Form I-90 with USCIS, pay the fee, submit documentation, attend your biometrics appointment, and wait for processing.
2. How much does it cost to replace a green card in 2025?
The total fee for replacing a green card is $415 if you file online and $465 if you file by paper.
3. Can I keep working while waiting for my replacement card?
Yes, your employment authorization continues, but you may need alternative documents for I-9 verification.
4. How long does it take to get a duplicate green card?
Processing can take up to 4 months or more, depending on backlog and the peculiarity of your case.
5. How can I track my green card replacement application?
Use your USCIS receipt number to check online via the official USCIS case status website.
6. What if I lose my green card while traveling abroad?
Contact the nearest U.S. consulate immediately to apply for a boarding foil (temporary travel document) to return to the U.S.
