How to Travel with Your I-551 Stamp and Temporary Green Card

While most people don’t think about it, traveling with your I-551 stamp and temporary green card can be a bit tricky. Here are a few tips to help you make the process as smooth as possible.

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Introduction: Why You Might Need to Travel with Your I-551 Stamp and Temporary Green Card

If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, you will typically be issued a 10-year green card. However, there are some circumstances in which your green card may only be valid for a shorter period of time. For example, if you obtained your green card through marriage, it will only be valid for two years. If your green card is set to expire within the next six months, you will need to renew it.

In some cases, you may need to travel outside of the United States before your green card expires. If this is the case, you will need to carry both your I-551 stamp and your temporary green card with you when you travel. The I-551 stamp is proof that you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, and the temporary green card is proof that your status is currently active.

Carrying both of these documents with you when you travel will ensure that you are able to return to the United States without any issues.

How to Get an I-551 Stamp

If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you will have an I-551 stamp in your passport. This stamp serves as proof of your status and allows you to travel freely within the United States. If you need to travel outside of the country you will need to get a new I-551 stamp before you leave.

To get an I-551 stamp, you will need to fill out an application and submit it to the nearest USCIS office. You will also need to provide proof of your status, such as a copy of your green card or a copy of your passport with the I-551 stamp. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a new I-551 stamp and temporary green card.

How to Get a Temporary Green Card

There are two ways to get a temporary green card: through Adjustment of Status or through Consular Processing. If you are eligible to Adjust Status, you will complete the process through the USCIS. If you are not eligible to Adjust Status, you will need to complete Consular Processing.

If you are Adjusting Status, you will need to submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. You will also need to pay the filing fee and submit any required supporting documents.

If you are Consular Processing, you will need to submit Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Application, online. You will also need to pay the visa application fee and any required Immigrant Visa fees. You will then need to schedule an appointment for an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate where you will be applying for your visa.

What to Do If Your I-551 Stamp or Temporary Green Card Is Lost or Stolen While You’re Traveling

If you’re traveling with your I-551 stamp or temporary green card and it’s lost or stolen, there are a few things you should do:

First, if you’re still in the United States, contact the USCIS Office that issued your stamp or card. They will be able to help you replace it.

If you’re outside of the United States, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They will be able to help you replace your stamp or card.

In either case, you will need to fill out a form called an I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document.

Once you have your replacement document, keep it with you at all times when you’re traveling.

What to Do When You Return to the United States with an Expired I-551 Stamp or Temporary Green Card

If you are a permanent resident who has been out of the country for longer than one year, you will need to obtain a new I-551 stamp or temporary green card upon your return to the United States. You should contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate where you applied for your immigrant visa for more information on how to obtain a new I-551 stamp or temporary green card.

How to Renew Your I-551 Stamp or Temporary Green Card

If your I-551 stamp or temporary green card has expired, you will need to renew it before you can travel outside of the United States. Here are the steps you need to take:

1. Schedule an appointment with a USCIS office. You can do this by calling the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 or by visiting the USCIS website.

2. Gather the required documentation. This includes your expired I-551 stamp or temporary green card, a passport-style photo, and proof of travel plans.

3. Submit your application, fees, and documentation. You will need to submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with the appropriate fee and your documentation.

4. Wait for your new I-551 stamp or temporary green card. Once your application has been processed, you will receive a new I-551 stamp or temporary green card in the mail.

Conclusion

Now that you know the ins and outs of traveling with your I-551 stamp and temporary green card, you can start planning your next adventure with peace of mind. Remember to keep your documents safe and accessible, and to carry a copy of your passport and green card at all times. With a little preparation, you can enjoy stress-free travel while you wait for your permanent green card to arrive.