Can I Travel With My I-90 Receipt Notice? Understanding Your Options

The Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is used to replace a Green Card that has been lost, stolen, damaged, or is expiring. After filing Form I-90, applicants receive a receipt notice (Form I-797C). A common question arises: “Can I travel with my I-90 receipt notice while waiting for my new Green Card?” Let’s explore the answer.

Understanding the I-90 Receipt Notice

The I-90 receipt notice confirms that USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) has received your application to replace your Green Card. It includes a receipt number that allows you to check your case status online. However, the receipt notice itself does not grant you any travel privileges.

Traveling While Your Green Card Application Is Pending

Traveling internationally with just an I-90 receipt notice can be risky. Here’s a breakdown:

Risk of Traveling with Only an I-90 Receipt Notice

Difficulty Re-entering the U.S.: Without a valid Green Card or Advance Parole document, you may face challenges when trying to re-enter the United States. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers need proof of your permanent resident status. The receipt notice alone may not be sufficient.
Airline Restrictions: Airlines may refuse to board you for a flight back to the U.S. without proper documentation of your permanent resident status.

Acceptable Documents for Re-entry

Here are a few options if you need to travel while your I-90 is pending:

Valid, Unexpired Green Card: If you still have your Green Card, even if it’s close to expiring, you can generally use it for re-entry, unless you’ve been outside the U.S. for longer than a year.
I-551 Stamp: If your Green Card has expired and you have an I-90 receipt, you can visit a local USCIS office and request an I-551 stamp (temporary proof of permanent residency) in your passport. This stamp serves as a temporary Green Card and allows you to travel and re-enter the U.S.
Advance Parole Document: If you need to travel for humanitarian or work reasons, you can apply for Advance Parole by filing Form I-131. However, this is generally for those who are also applying for Adjustment of Status.
Transportation Letter: In situations where a Lawful Permanent Resident’s (LPR) Green Card has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, and they are outside the United States, they can apply for a Transportation Letter from a U.S. embassy or consulate to return to the United States.

What If Your Green Card Expires in 6 Months?

According to the original article, you should file Form I-90 to renew your Permanent Resident Card if you were issued a card valid for 10 years that has either expired or will expire within the next 6 months.

Steps to Take Before Traveling

Check your Green Card’s expiration date.
If possible, postpone your trip until you receive your new Green Card or an I-551 stamp.
If travel is unavoidable:
- Contact USCIS to expedite your I-90 application if you have a compelling reason.
- Schedule an InfoPass appointment to request an I-551 stamp.
- Consult with an immigration attorney to assess your specific situation and explore available options.

Filing Your I-90 Application

You can file Form I-90 either online or by mail. Filing online offers advantages like online payment, case status tracking, and electronic notifications.

Filing online: Create a USCIS online account to file your form electronically.

Filing by mail: Send your application to the appropriate USCIS lockbox based on the delivery service.

Filing Addresses

U.S. Postal Service (USPS):

USCIS
Attn: I-90
P.O. Box 21262
Phoenix, AZ 85036-1262

FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries:

USCIS
Attn: I-90 (Box 21262)
2108 E. Elliot Rd.
Tempe, AZ 85284-1806

Conclusion

While receiving an I-90 receipt notice is a positive step in replacing your Green Card, it does not guarantee re-entry into the U.S. It’s crucial to understand the risks and explore alternative options like obtaining an I-551 stamp or delaying travel until you receive your new Green Card. Always consult with USCIS or an immigration attorney to determine the best course of action for your individual circumstances.