Green cards, also known as permanent resident cards, are identification documents issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to foreign nationals who become lawful permanent residents of the United States. The cards are proof of the holder’s lawful immigration status in the United States, and are generally valid for 10 years.
The green card process is a lengthy one, with many applications and paperwork. Once the process is complete and an individual is approved for a green card, the card is mailed from the USCIS to the applicant’s address in the United States. The USCIS is the agency responsible for the mailing of green cards and other immigration-related documents.
Where are Green Cards Mailed From?
Green cards are mailed from the USCIS National Benefits Center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The center is a processing facility that handles all applications and paperwork related to immigration, including green card applications. The facility is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is staffed by USCIS personnel.
When an individual is approved for a green card, the application is sent to the National Benefits Center, where it is processed and a green card is created. The card is then mailed from the facility in Lee’s Summit to the applicant’s address in the United States. The mailing process can take several weeks and is dependent on the processing times and workload of the facility.
What is the Process for Mailing a Green Card?
The process for mailing a green card begins with the applicant submitting all necessary paperwork to the USCIS. When the application is approved and a green card is issued, it is sent to the National Benefits Center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The card is then processed, printed and mailed to the applicant’s address in the United States.
When the card is received at the National Benefits Center, it is reviewed for accuracy and printed. The card is then placed in an envelope and mailed to the applicant. The card is mailed using standard US Postal Service mail, and is sent to the address specified on the application.
What if I Don’t Receive My Green Card?
If you have submitted all necessary paperwork for a green card and have not received it within the expected time frame, you should contact the USCIS to inquire about its status. The USCIS can provide you with information on the status of your application and can investigate if there has been a delay in the mailing of your green card.
If your green card has been lost or stolen, you should contact the USCIS immediately. The USCIS can provide you with information on how to replace a lost or stolen green card and can assist you in the replacement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are green cards mailed from?
Green cards are mailed from the USCIS National Benefits Center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
What is the process for mailing a green card?
The process for mailing a green card begins with the applicant submitting all necessary paperwork to the USCIS. When the application is approved and a green card is issued, it is sent to the National Benefits Center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The card is then processed, printed and mailed to the applicant’s address in the United States.
What if I don’t receive my green card?
If you have submitted all necessary paperwork for a green card and have not received it within the expected time frame, you should contact the USCIS to inquire about its status. The USCIS can provide you with information on the status of your application and can investigate if there has been a delay in the mailing of your green card.
Is there a fee for replacing a lost or stolen green card?
Yes, there is a fee for replacing a lost or stolen green card. The fee is usually between $50 and $75, depending on the type of card that needs to be replaced.
How long does it take to process a green card application?
The processing time for a green card application can vary depending on the type of application and the workload of the USCIS. Generally, the processing time for a green card application is between six months and one year.
Do I need to renew my green card after 10 years?
Yes, green cards are valid for 10 years and must be renewed after that time period. You can apply to renew your green card up to six months before the expiration date.
What documents do I need to apply for a green card?
To apply for a green card, you will need to submit a variety of documents, including proof of identity and proof of eligibility. You will also need to provide evidence of your relationship to a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, as well as evidence of any criminal history. For more information on the documents needed to apply for a green card, contact the USCIS.
What is the difference between a green card and a visa?
A green card is an identification document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants the holder permanent resident status in the United States. A visa, on the other hand, is a document issued by a U.S. Embassy or consulate that allows an individual to enter the United States temporarily. Visas are usually issued for a specific purpose, such as work or study.
Can I travel outside the United States with a green card?
Yes, you can travel outside the United States with a green card, but you must have a valid passport from your home country. If you plan to be outside the U.S. for more than one year, you must obtain a re-entry permit from the USCIS before traveling.
What is the cost of a green card?
The cost of a green card varies depending on the type of application you are submitting and the processing fees associated with it. Generally, the total cost of a green card application is between $1,000 and $2,500.
Can I work in the United States with a green card?
Yes, individuals with a valid green card are eligible to work in the United States. To be eligible to work, you must have a valid Social Security Number and must comply with all applicable U.S. employment laws.
Can I apply for U.S. citizenship with a green card?
Yes, individuals with a valid green card are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship. You must meet certain requirements to be eligible to apply, including being a permanent resident for at least five years and having a good moral character.