Welcome to the United States! You are part of a long tradition of immigrants who have come to the United States and contributed to a strong and vibrant nation.
Please see the links below for information about your immigration documents and benefits, travel, and employment. This information will help you get settled in the United States and provide you and your family with information and resources needed for life in the United States.
Information About Lawful Permanent ResidentsQ: What kinds of immigration documents does USCIS issue?
A: USCIS issues many types of immigration documents, including: Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card); Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document; Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record; and Form I-797, Notice of Action.
Q: What if the information on my new card is incorrect?
A: If any information is missing or incorrect, please call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 or check our website for instructions. You can also submit an electronic request to fix any typographical error. For Green Cards, please file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), if there’s an error.
Q: Do I need to always carry my document with me?
A: If you are 18 years of age or older, you must always carry your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Green Card, or other proof of alien registration in the United States with you.
Q: What do I do if my document is lost or stolen or becomes damaged?
A: If your document is lost or stolen or becomes damaged, or if your name or other information shown on your card changes, use Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), for a new Green Card, or Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, for a new EAD. Please call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 or check our website for instructions.
Q: Why does my EAD say, “SERVES AS I-512 ADVANCE PAROLE?”
A: Most EADs have the statement “NOT VALID FOR REENTRY TO U.S.” at the bottom of the card. However, if you received a card that instead has the statement “SERVES AS I-512 ADVANCE PAROLE,” this is a Combination Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card (combo card). The combo card serves as both an EAD and an Advance Parole Document. The combo card is only available for certain applicants who have a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
If you travel outside the United States, you may present the combo card, in addition to other documents, at a port of entry to seek parole upon your return. Additionally, U.S. immigration law requires passengers to present evidence of authorization to apply for admission or to otherwise seek lawful entry into the United States before they may board a vessel or aircraft destined for the United States. Presenting a valid combo card will authorize a transportation carrier to accept you on board for travel to the United States, provided you return to the United States on or before the expiration date on the card. The card is valid for multiple applications for parole into the United States until the expiration date.
