Green Card Is Green Again
Published: May 18, 2010

It has been more than a few decades since the document evidencing one’s U.S. lawful permanent resident was actually green, but the label “green card” seemed to stick. Even though the Alien Registration Card, or Permanent Resident Card – as it is now known, was produced in a pinkish tone some 30 years ago, and during the last decade – in white, we never could stop calling it a green card. That is all about to change since the Department of Homeland Security and Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that all new and replacement cards will once again be produced in green, and with added security features. Those features include sophisticated biometric information and other security details designed to prevent counterfeiting, unauthorized reproduction, or alteration. The card will even include Radio Frequency Identification so as to allow Customs and Border Protection officials at ports of entry to more easily process data from a distance, and to compare it to information stored in Homeland Security databases.

In the meantime, those holding Resident Cards with no expiration date or with expiration dates in the future, need not take any action to obtain the new versions of the card. These cards will continue to be honored. DHS/CIS officials however recommend that residents in possession of cards containing no expiration dates seek replacement nevertheless.

If you are a resident who is applying for U.S. citizenship, an application for replacement or renewal of an expiring card is not necessary.

PUBLISHED May 18, 2010 – “IMMIGRATION LAW FORUM”
Copyright © 2010, By Law Offices of Richard Hanus, Chicago, Illinois