Losing your Green Card — whether through theft, misplacement, or natural disaster — can be stressful.

Without proof of your lawful permanent resident status, you cannot work, travel internationally, or return to the U.S. if you are abroad.

This guide walks you through the exact steps to replace your card quickly and safely.

Immediate Steps to Take After Loss or Theft

Your first actions matter, especially if your card was stolen rather than simply lost.

  • File a police report (for theft only): If your wallet or card was stolen, obtain a copy of the police report. USCIS may request it, and it protects you from identity theft.
  • Retrace your steps: Check all bags, drawers, and recent travel documents. Many 'lost' cards are simply misplaced.
  • Notify your employer (if used for I-9 verification): Your employer may need alternative documentation (e.g., unrestricted Social Security card + state ID) while you wait for a replacement.
Critical: If you are outside the United States when your Green Card is lost or stolen, do NOT file Form I-90 online. Instead, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to obtain a Boarding Foil (Transportation Letter) to return home. Only then file I-90.

When to File Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)

Form I-90 is the universal form for Green Card replacement, regardless of the reason.

File it in these scenarios:

  • Lost or stolen card.
  • Card damaged (torn, faded, unreadable).
  • Typographical error on the card (name, date of birth, etc.).
  • Card never received after original approval.
  • Change of legal name (marriage, divorce, court order).
  • Card expired (for 10-year cards — note that 2-year conditional cards require Form I-751 instead).

Step-by-Step I-90 Filing Process

1. Create a USCIS Online Account: The fastest method is electronic filing.

Go to my.uscis.gov and create an account. Online filing allows you to upload documents, pay fees, and track status instantly.

2. Gather Required Documents: Even for a replacement, you must prove your identity and status.

  • Copy of lost/stolen Green Card (if you have a scanned copy or photocopy).
  • Valid passport (biometric page).
  • Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID).
  • Police report (if stolen).
  • Two passport-style photos (2x2 inches).

3. Complete Form I-90 Accurately: Common mistakes include selecting the wrong reason code.

Select 'Lost or stolen' (Reason Code D) for theft. For damage, select Code C.

Provide your A-Number (Alien Registration Number) — every permanent resident has one. If you don't remember it, check old immigration documents.

4. Pay the Filing Fee: As of 2026, Form I-90 costs $465 (includes $85 biometrics fee).

Fee reductions are available for certain low-income applicants (Form I-912). Payment options: credit card, check, money order.

5. Submit and Attend Biometrics: USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC).

They take fingerprints and a new photo for your replacement card. Failure to appear cancels your application.

Processing Times and What to Expect

  • Average processing: 8–12 months for standard replacement.
  • Expedited requests: USCIS rarely expedites lost/stolen cases unless urgent humanitarian reasons (e.g., immediate family medical emergency abroad).
  • While waiting: You can request an ADIT stamp (temporary I-551 proof) by calling USCIS and scheduling an Infopass appointment. This stamp in your passport serves as temporary Green Card for 6–12 months.
Pro tip: After receiving your replacement card, store it in a secure location. Take a high-resolution photo of both sides and store it in encrypted cloud storage. This helps if you lose it again.

Finally, beware of scams. USCIS will never call you to demand payment for a replacement card.

All official communication comes via mail or secure online messages through your USCIS account.