How to Replace a Lost Green Card
Losing a green card is serious, but is a situation that can be fixed. The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) has a procedure in place to help in such situations. Do not wait; get the situation remedied as quickly as possible.
- Understand that you will need to pay for a replacement. It will cost $450 dollars to go through the process of getting a new card. Although you may find this to be cost-prohibitive, remember that you must get another copy of the green card. Federal law makes it clear that you must carry your green card at all times.
- Fill out the I-90 form completely and mail it into the BCIS office. Included with the form should be a copy of your photo identification and your check for $450. Be sure to send the packet via certified mail. By doing this, you will have a paper trail of the packets process and can prove that you are working on getting your replacement.
- Await notice of receipt from the BCIS. They will give you an appointment to have your fingerprints taken at the local BCIS office. Make sure that you keep your appointment and do not be late.
- Wait for your green card to arrive in the mail. It is not unusual for the entire process to take up to eight weeks to complete. If you have any questions, you can call the BCIS office or check the status of the case on their website.