Q: Why is this proposed replacement of Forms I-551 without an expiration date necessary?
A: Permanent Resident Cards (Forms I-551) are issued to permanent residents to serve as evidence of
immigration status, registration, identity, and employment authorization; they also serve as entry documents upon return from trips outside of the United States. A card that is too old, with out-of-date photographs, cannot effectively serve these purposes.
Q: Would my card be valid until USCIS issues me a new card?
A: The rule proposes that affected cards would remain valid until USCIS announces a termination date for the cards in a notice published in the Federal Register following the 120-day replacement period.
Q: Can an applicant apply for the new card before the implementation date?
A: Yes. An applicant may apply for the new card before the implementation date by filing Form I-90.
Q. Would a permanent resident be required to surrender his/her original ”green card” upon receipt of the new one?
A: No. As previously stated, applicants must carry evidence that they have a legal right to live and work in the United States. The “green card” offers that evidence.
Q. Would USCIS accept late filings after the 120-day filing period is closed?
A: Yes. However, USCIS would not be able to ensure applicants that a decision will be made on an application before the termination date of their current cards.
Q. Would there be any legal sanctions against a “green card” holder who fails to apply?
A: It’s important to note that any permanent resident 18 years of age or older is required to carry a valid permanent resident card. Failure to do so can result in a fine or imprisonment.
Q: Can an applicant apply for the new card before the implementation date?
A: Yes. An applicant may apply for the new card before the implementation date by filing Form I-90.
Q: Why announce this proposed replacement of Forms I-551 without an expiration date now?
A: Replacement of the outstanding permanent resident cards without expiration dates is critical to the
national security mission of USCIS. Replacement of the cards will ensure that cardholders’ fingerprints and photographs are updated so as to provide better evidence of the identity of the cardholders.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR GREENCARD HOLDERS
