Overview

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the I-551 stamp. We’ll explain its purpose, outline the documents required to obtain it, walk you through the process of obtaining an I-551 stamp, and provide information on the stamp’s validity.

Securing your Green Card is a major milestone, but if your documentation gets lost or expires, the I-551 permanent resident stamp offers a helpful temporary solution. This stamp, which is placed directly in your passport, serves as proof of your permanent residency while you wait for a replacement Green Card.

Here’s what you’ll learn: what the I-551 stamp is, who needs it, how to get it, what documents to bring, and how long it’s valid.

What is an I-551 stamp?

An I-551 stamp is temporary proof of your permanent resident status when your Green Card is still being processed or was lost.

An I-551 stamp, often called an “ADIT stamp (Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications stamp),” or temporary I-551, serves as official temporary proof of Green Card status when you don’t have your physical Green Card or other evidence on hand. It’s issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a branch of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and is placed directly in your passport and confirms that you’re still a lawful permanent resident.

You might get this stamp in your passport if your Green Card is lost, expired, or still being processed. Think of it as your backup Green Card. It’s a quick and reliable way to show that you’re a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. without your actual card.

The I-551 stamp includes important details such as your A-number and an expiration date. The I-551 stamp is typically valid for up to one year, though this may vary based on individual circumstances.

The I-551 stamp is particularly useful for travel and employment. If you need to leave the U.S. while waiting for your new Green Card, the stamp acts as a re-entry permit, ensuring that you won’t face issues when coming back into the country. Additionally, it can be used to verify your employment eligibility, as it’s recognized as proof of your right to work in the U.S.

Purpose of the I-551 stamp

Green Cards get lost in the mail. Green Card renewals can be delayed for months. And processing backlogs can stretch timelines much longer than expected.

Because these things can happen, the I-551 stamp serves as temporary proof of your lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. when your physical Green Card isn’t available. Whether your Green Card is lost, expired, or still being processed, the temporary I-551 stamp is your backup, ensuring you don’t face any challenges when crossing the US border at the point of entry.

Here’s why the I-551 stamp is important:

• Temporary Proof of Green Card Status: The I-551 stamp acts as a stand-in for your Green Card. It’s placed in your passport and shows that you’re a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., even if your actual Green Card is missing or expired.
• Travel Authorization: If you need to travel outside the U.S., the I-551 stamp allows you to re-enter without issues.
• Work Eligibility Verification: The stamp also serves as proof that you’re authorized to work in the U.S. Employers recognize it as valid documentation, so you can continue to work legally even without your physical Green Card.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your status as a permanent resident is recognized and protected with the I-551 stamp can relieve a lot of stress, especially in situations where delays or issues arise with your Green Card.

If your green card renewal or replacement is delayed, the I-551 stamp ensures you keep your legal status active in the meantime.

How to Obtain an I-551 Stamp

Obtaining an I-551 stamp is a straightforward process, but it requires a few steps to ensure everything goes smoothly. The stamp is issued by USCIS and is typically used when your physical Green Card is not available.

Here are the steps you can take to obtain an I-551 stamp:

Step 1: Schedule an Appointment with USCIS

You’ll need to make an appointment at a local USCIS office to request the I-551 stamp. Appointments are typically scheduled through the USCIS Contact Center by calling their helpline at 1-800-375-5283.

Important: Be sure to mention that you need the appointment for obtaining an I-551 stamp due to a lost, expired, or pending Green Card.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents for the Form I-551

In order to file for a I-551 stamp, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

Required Documents

• Valid Passport: You’ll need your passport where the stamp will be placed.
• Proof of Pending Green Card Application: Bring your I-90 receipt notice (Form I-797) or any other documentation showing you have applied for a new or replacement Green Card.
• Expired Green Card (if available): If you still have your expired Green Card, bring it along as it may help with the process.
• Government-Issued ID: Other forms of identification like a driver’s license can be useful.
• Appointment Confirmation Notice: Print and bring your appointment confirmation from USCIS.

Optional Documents

• Form I-94: Arrival/Departure Record
• Police report: if your Green Card was stolen
• Proof of emergency travel: such as a flight itinerary or medical documentation)

Step 3: Attend Your USCIS Appointment

Make sure to arrive at the USCIS office on time with all your documents. During the appointment, a USCIS officer will review your case and decide whether to issue the I-551 stamp. They may ask questions about your Green Card status and why you need the stamp.

Step 4: Receive the I-551 Stamp

If approved, the officer will place the I-551 stamp in your passport. The stamp is typically valid for up to one year, but the exact length of time can vary depending on your specific situation.

Once you have the I-551 stamp, you can use it as proof of your permanent resident status for travel, work, and any other situations where your Green Card is required.

Documents Required For I-551 Stamp

When applying for an I-551 stamp, it’s essential to come prepared with the right documents to avoid any delays or complications.

Here’s a list of all the documents you’ll need to bring to your I-551 stamp appointment to ensure a smooth process:

Required Documents

• Valid Passport
• Proof of Pending Green Card Application
• Expired or Damaged Green Card (if available)
• Government-Issued Photo ID
• Appointment Confirmation Notice
• Proof of Emergency Travel (if applicable)
• Proof of Residence
• Marriage Certificate or Name Change Document (if applicable)

A valid, unexpired passport is required as the I-551 stamp is placed directly in your passport. This helps establish your identity and allows for the stamp to be used for travel purposes.

Bring proof that you’ve applied for a replacement or renewal of your Green Card. This includes your Form I-797 receipt notice for Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) or other evidence showing that your Green Card is being processed.

If your Green Card is expired, damaged, or still in your possession, bring it to your appointment. Even if it’s no longer valid, it can help USCIS verify your status quickly.

Bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or state ID. This can help confirm your identity, especially if you don’t have your Green Card with you.

USCIS will typically send you a confirmation notice for your appointment. Print this out and bring it with you, as you may need it to enter the USCIS office.

If you’re requesting the I-551 stamp due to emergency travel, bring proof such as airline tickets, travel itinerary, or medical documentation to support your need for immediate travel.

USCIS may ask for proof of your current U.S. address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, to verify your residency.

If your name has changed since your Green Card was issued, bring supporting documents like a marriage certificate or court order reflecting the name change.

Cost of I-551 Stamp on passport

The I-551 stamp is free.

There is no charge for the I-551 stamp itself. USCIS won’t charge you for requesting the stamp, even if your Green Card is lost, expired, or still being processed.

How long does it take to get an I-551 stamp?

Processing times for getting an I-551 stamp can vary depending on your situation.

If you’ve lost your Green Card or need a renewal, the process usually takes a few weeks. You’ll schedule a USCIS appointment, and at this appointment, USCIS will provide the I-551 stamp.

If you’re a new immigrant, you’ll usually receive an I-551 stamp in your passport when you enter the U.S. This acts as temporary proof of your status until your Green Card arrives.

How long does an I-551 permanent resident card stamp last?

The I-551 stamp generally remains valid for up to one year from the date it’s issued.

For most people, the one-year validity of the I-551 stamp is sufficient to cover the time needed to receive a replacement Green Card. If your Green Card hasn’t arrived by then, you may be able to schedule another appointment with USCIS. The officer may review your documentation and extend the stamp’s validity if necessary.

How Keller Law can help

If you need an I-551 stamp, getting the details right matters—especially if you have upcoming travel, employment verification needs, or a pending Green Card replacement or renewal.

A well-prepared USCIS appointment (with clear documentation and a coherent explanation of why you need the stamp) can help avoid delays and complications.

If you’re unsure which documents apply to your situation or how to present your case, professional guidance can help you approach the process with confidence.

Take the First Step:

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• General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options
• Information on Keller fees, terms and process
• Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

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Avi Goldenberg