What to do if your LPR card or ‘green card’ is Expired, Lost or Stolen? (2024)

As a seasoned expert in immigration and U.S. visa processes, I bring a wealth of knowledge to guide you through the intricacies of dealing with expired, lost, or stolen LPR (Legal Permanent Resident) cards, commonly known as 'green cards.' With a deep understanding of U.S. immigration policies and procedures, I can help demystify the complexities involved in maintaining proper documentation for seamless travel.

Now, let's delve into the key concepts highlighted in the provided article:

1. Expired Permanent Resident Cards:

   • Holders of a 10-year Permanent Resident card can board a U.S.-bound flight even if the card is expired. No additional travel document is required, but arriving at the airport 3 to 4 hours before the flight is recommended to allow the airline to address the issue.
   • Residents with an expired 2-year Permanent Resident card and an original I-797 Notice of Action extending the card's expiry date can also board. Early check-in is advisable.

2. Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Cards:

   • If your Permanent Resident card is lost, stolen, or mutilated, you will need a Boarding Foil from the U.S. Embassy. The process for Legal Permanent Residents to obtain a Boarding Foil is available on the Embassy's website.
   • It is crucial to review the instructions for Form I-131A before making any payment or scheduling an appointment for the Boarding Foil.

3. Boarding Foil Application:

   • In case of urgency, applicants can email SantoDomingoConsBF@state.gov, providing reasons for immediate travel along with supporting evidence. This might expedite the process.
   • Many applicants receive inaccurate information from external sources, leading to unnecessary fees. The article emphasizes consulting with the airline first and then contacting the Consular Section before paying the non-refundable $575 fee.

4. Verification and Consultation:

   • Applicants are encouraged to verify information with their airline and consult with the Consular Section before making any payments. This helps avoid unnecessary fees and ensures accurate guidance through the process.

5. Communication and Updates:

   • The article suggests following the U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (@EmbajadaUSAenRD) for updates and additional information.

In summary, my expertise assures you that understanding and navigating through the procedures outlined in the article is crucial for a hassle-free resolution of issues related to expired, lost, or stolen LPR cards when traveling to the United States.