Welcome to this comprehensive guide on Form I-551, also known as the Permanent Resident Card or Green Card. If you've recently obtained or are in the process of obtaining permanent resident status in the United States, this guide is designed for you. We aim to provide detailed information about what Form I-551 is, where it can be found, how to use it, and answer some frequently asked questions about it. Whether you're an immigrant, an [immigration lawyer](/immigration-resources/immigration-parole-guide), or simply interested in understanding the [U.S. immigration process](/immigration-resources/us-visa-interview-process), this guide will serve as a valuable resource. Let's get started.

Form I-551, commonly known as the Permanent Resident Card or Green Card, is a critical document in the U.S. immigration process. This card signifies your status as a permanent resident in the United States, granting you the right to live, work, and travel freely within and outside the country.

The card itself is typically green, hence the name "Green Card", and is about the size of a standard credit card. On the front, it features your photo, name, [USCIS](https://www.uscis.gov/contactcenter^) number, alien registration number, date of birth, and the card's expiration date. On the back, you'll find the formal designation "I-551" printed, along with a barcode and other security features.

The Green Card is more than just an ID card; it's a symbol of your new status and the rights and responsibilities that come with it. It's important to keep it safe and always know where it is, as you'll need it for various aspects of your life in the U.S., from starting a job to reentering the country after traveling abroad.

Obtaining your Form I-551, or Green Card, is a significant step in your journey towards becoming a permanent resident in the United States. Here's how the process typically works:

Remember, your MRIV and CBP stamp are temporary proofs of your permanent resident status. You should carry them with you at all times until you receive your actual Green Card.

Form I-551, your Green Card, is a versatile document that you'll use frequently as a permanent resident in the United States. Here's how:

**Employment**: Your Green Card serves as proof of your eligibility to work in the U.S. When you start a new job, your employer will ask you to complete [Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification](/immigration-resources/form-i9-employment-eligibility-verification). You can present your Green Card as proof of both your identity and your authorization to work in the United States.

**Travel**: Your Green Card is also your ticket to travel freely in and out of the U.S. When you return from a trip abroad, you'll present your Green Card at the U.S. border. The card proves that you have the right to reenter the country as a permanent resident.

**Identification**: In many situations, you can use your Green Card as a form of identification. For example, you can use it to apply for a driver's license or state ID card, open a bank account, or register for school.

Remember, it's important to keep your Green Card safe, but also readily available. You never know when you might need to show it.

What to Do if Form I-551 is Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed

Losing your Green Card can be a stressful experience, but don't panic. There are steps you can take to replace it:

In the meantime, you may be able to get a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport. This stamp serves as proof of your permanent resident status while you're waiting for your new Green Card. To get this stamp, you'll need to make an appointment at a USCIS field office and bring your passport and evidence of your permanent resident status, such as a copy of your [lost Green Card](/immigration-resources/green-card-medical-examination-guide) or your MRIV.

Remember, it's important to report a lost or [stolen Green Card](/immigration-resources/replace-green-card-guide) to the police. This can help protect you from [identity theft](/immigration-resources/avoiding-immigration-scams).

A: Yes, your Green Card serves as proof of your eligibility to work in the U.S. When you start a new job, you can present your Green Card as proof of both your identity and your authorization to work in the United States.

A: The Green Card is typically green and about the size of a standard credit card. It features your photo, name, USCIS number, alien registration number, date of birth, and the card's expiration date on the front. On the back, you'll find the formal designation "I-551" printed, along with a barcode and other security features.

A: The designation "I-551" can be found on the back of your Green Card. It's also on your Machine-Readable Immigrant Visa (MRIV), which serves as a temporary I-551 until you receive your actual Green Card.

A: If you lose your Green Card, you should file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You may also be able to get a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport while you're waiting for your new Green Card. Remember to report a lost or stolen Green Card to the police to help protect yourself from identity theft.

Frequently Asked Questions about Form I-551

What should I do if I lose my Green Card?

Form I-551, the Permanent Resident Card or Green Card, is a crucial document for anyone seeking to live and work permanently in the United States. It serves as proof of your permanent resident status, allowing you to work, travel, and live freely in the U.S.

We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of Form I-551, from what it is and how to obtain it, to how to use it and what to do if it's lost, stolen, or destroyed. Remember, while this guide provides a general overview, every individual's situation is unique. If you have more questions or need further assistance, consider reaching out to an immigration lawyer or contacting USCIS directly.

Your journey to becoming a U.S. permanent resident is an exciting one, and your Green Card is a significant part of that journey. Keep it safe, understand its importance, and use it wisely. Welcome to your new life in the United States!

This guide explains the U.S. Permanent Resident Card, also known as Form I-551 or Green Card. Learn about its importance, how to obtain one, and what to do if it's lost or stolen. We also cover its use for employment verification, travel, and identification. Essential for any U.S. permanent resident.

Form I-551: A Guide to Understanding the U.S. Permanent Resident Card

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