What do I need to re-enter the US if I have lost my Green Card?
I am a US permanent resident. How can I return to the USA after losing my Green Card in Canada? I only have my social security card on me. What do I need to cross the border?
Best Answer
The US Embassy in Mexico (which also frequently sees cases like this) has a web page about this situation. They say that you can go to the land border and present your case to CBP there. If you have other documents which identify you (e.g. passport) you should bring them so that CBP can be sure of who you are.
In relevant part:
Please see below for your four options for returning to the U.S., presented in order of processing time, from least to most time required:
Have your airline call the Regional Carrier Liaison Group in Miami and seek permission to board without an entry document.
Cross a land border and present your case to CBP there. You will be able to apply for admission to the U.S. with CBP without your LPR card.
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Can I come back to us if I lost my green card?
The U.S. Consulate General does not issue replacement LPR cards. If you are overseas and your Permanent Resident Card was lost or stolen, and you have been out of the United States for less than 365 consecutive days, you may request a boarding foil to allow you to return to the United States.What should I do if I lost my green card?
If you need to replace or renew a Green Card (I-551) that has been lost, stolen or is expired, please call U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at 1-800-375-5283 or visit USCIS.gov.Can you be in the US legally without a green card?
Requirements for a USA trip You must meet the following requirements to travel to the United States: You have a valid passport or Green Card. You have a valid ESTA or US visa that matches your passport data (not applicable to Green Card holders). You do not pose a threat to the USA or the American people.How can I return to the US without my green card or reentry permit?
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Answer 2
You need your permanent resident card to return to the USA unlike a citizen who can just show up at the border with nothing and will be allowed in after some checks.
I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation)
You must file Form I-131A in person at a USCIS international field office or with a Consular Section at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Before appearing in person, you must submit the filing fee through the online payment system on our website (see the Filing Fee section below). When you appear in person to file Form I-131A, you must bring evidence that you paid the fee
Note that it’s not cheap, $575.
Traveling outside US - Documents needed for Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR)/Green Card holders
What documents, identification, and paperwork does a Lawful Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) Green Card holder need to travel internationally?
Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) of the U.S. must present a Permanent Resident Card ("Green Card", Form I-551), a Reentry Permit (if gone for more than 1 year), or a Returning Resident Visa (if gone for 2 years or more) to reenter the United States.
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