Form I-551 is the official U.S. government designation for the Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card. Obtaining a Form I-551, commonly known as the Green Card, is a significant milestone for anyone seeking permanent residency in the United States.
This card serves as official proof of your lawful permanent resident status, granting you the right to live, work, and travel freely within the country. Whether you’re newly arrived or planning your next steps, understanding the ins and outs of Form I-551—including how to use it, renew it, and replace it—is essential.
This comprehensive 2026 guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Green Card process, benefits, and practical tips to navigate your journey smoothly.
Citizenship Rights:
This form of identification confirms your lawful permanent resident (LPR) status in the United States and grants you important rights, such as:
- Living and working in the U.S. permanently
- Re-entering the U.S. after temporary international travel
- Applying for U.S. citizenship after meeting eligibility requirements
Check Also: Green Card Number Demystified – Facts for Permanent Residents
Form I-551 Label Search:
1. On the Green Card
Once issued, your green card will clearly state “FORM I-551” in the top-left corner on the back of the card. This confirms it is a valid LPR identification document.
2. On a Temporary I-551 (MRIV in Passport)
If you entered the U.S. through an immigrant visa issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate, you may notice the following printed in your passport:
“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year.”
This Machine-Readable Immigrant Visa (MRIV) becomes valid temporary proof of permanent residency once it is endorsed (stamped) by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry.
3. ADIT Stamp (I-551 Stamp)
The Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp, often called a temporary I-551 stamp, may be issued by USCIS in your passport if:
- You are waiting for your green card after arriving in the U.S.
- You need proof of residency while replacing a lost, stolen, or expired card
This stamp is typically valid for 1 year and is accepted as temporary evidence of permanent resident status.
When and How to Use Form I-551?
For Employment (Before Receiving the Green Card)
You may use the endorsed immigrant visa and I-551 stamp as acceptable Form I-9 “List A” documents when starting a job. These prove both your identity and authorization to work in the U.S.
Note: Employers must accept these as valid documentation within the 1-year validity period.
For Travel
The temporary I-551 (ADIT stamp) allows you to re-enter the United States after international travel if your physical green card has not yet arrived or was lost. Be sure it is valid on your return date.
Replacing a Lost or Damaged GC:
If your green card is lost, stolen, or damaged:
- File Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) online or by mail
- Get a temporary I-551 stamp from a USCIS field office to use as proof while your replacement is processed
To schedule an appointment and obtain the stamp:
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283
- Bring:
- A valid, unexpired passport
- A copy of the lost/damaged card (if available)
- Your Form I-797C receipt notice confirming you filed Form I-90
Processing Time: Green card replacement can take several months. Always check USCIS case processing times for the latest updates.
Benefits:
- Permanent Legal Residency
Live permanently and legally in the United States without needing visa renewals. - Work Authorization
Legally work for any U.S. employer, in any job sector, without needing separate work permits. - Travel Flexibility
Travel in and out of the U.S. with fewer restrictions; re-entry is easier with a valid green card. - Pathway to Citizenship
Eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency and other requirements. - Access to Social Benefits
Ability to apply for certain federal and state benefits, including Social Security and Medicare (after qualifying). - Sponsor Family Members
Eligible to petition for certain relatives (spouse, unmarried children) to receive permanent residency. - Protection Under U.S. Law
Protection of your rights under U.S. law, including labor and civil rights. - Education Benefits
Access to in-state tuition rates and certain scholarships or financial aid programs. - Ease of Identification
Accepted as valid proof of identity and residency for banking, licensing, and other official purposes.
Details:
| Item | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Form I-551 | Official name for a U.S. Permanent Resident Card (green card) |
| MRIV with I-551 wording | Temporary proof of LPR status issued before your green card arrives |
| ADIT (I-551) stamp | A USCIS-issued stamp in your passport providing temporary evidence of residency |
| Employment Use | Employers can accept the temporary I-551 as proof of authorization to work |
| Replacement Process | File Form I-90 and request a temporary stamp if your green card is lost or delayed |
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to receive the physical Green Card after arriving in the U.S.?
Typically, you should receive your Green Card within 45 days of entry, provided you have paid the USCIS Immigrant Fee and there are no delays.
What is a temporary I-551 (ADIT) stamp?
It is a temporary stamp placed in your passport or Form I-94 by U.S. Customs and Border Protection or USCIS, serving as temporary proof of permanent residency, valid for up to one year.
What is Form I-551?
Form I-551 is the official designation for the United States Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as the Green Card. It proves your lawful permanent resident status.
