Can I Travel with an Expired Green Card? Understanding Adit Stamps
Traveling with an expired green card can be a challenge, but it is possible with an Adit Stamp! But..
What is an Adit Stamp?
An Adit Stamp, also known as an I-551 stamp, is a temporary proof of lawful permanent resident status in the United States. It is often issued to green card holders whose green cards have expired or who have lost, stolen, or damaged their green cards.
How to Get an Adit Stamp?
To get an Adit Stamp, you must visit a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office. You can schedule an appointment or visit during walk-in hours. When you arrive at the USCIS office, you will need to:
Bring identification, such as a passport or driver's license.
Explain your situation to the USCIS officer.
If you are approved for an Adit Stamp, the officer will place a temporary stamp in your passport or you can have two passport photos and they will issue you a Adit stamp document.
Traveling with an Adit Stamp
Once you have an Adit Stamp, you can travel internationally and reenter the United States. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip.
Carry the letter or notice from USCIS that authorizes the Adit Stamp, as well as any other relevant immigration documents.
Be aware that some airlines or foreign authorities may not accept Adit Stamps. It is a good idea to contact the airline and embassy or consulate of your destination country before your trip to confirm.
Renewing Your Green Card
It is important to renew your green card as soon as possible after obtaining an Adit Stamp. This will ensure that your immigration status remains current and that you do not have any trouble traveling in the future. You can renew your green card by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, with the USCIS. We can assist you with that any of these steps.
Conclusion
While it is possible to travel internationally with an expired green card using an Adit Stamp, it is not ideal. It is important to renew your green card as soon as possible to avoid travel interruptions and ensure that your status remains current.
Tips for Traveling with an Adit Stamp
Be prepared to explain your situation to airline and foreign authorities.
Carry a copy of your Form I-90 application receipt notice.
If you are traveling to a country that is known to be strict about immigration requirements, be sure to contact the embassy or consulate in advance to confirm that they will accept Adit Stamps.
We have yet to get someone denied with using an Adit stamp but early on with Covid a few years ago the overseas agencies were not aware and not they are of it.