If your green card or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) was mailed but never arrived, start by checking your USCIS case status online and waiting at least 30 days from the mailing date—USPS delivery typically takes 3–7 days, and the card may still arrive. USCIS distinguishes between cards physically returned to them as undeliverable (which trigger a free replacement via the Non-Delivery of Card e-Request tool) and cards that either show as delivered to you but never arrived, or were lost in transit without being returned to USCIS (which require filing a replacement form with a fee). The path forward depends entirely on whether USCIS physically received your card back, and this distinction determines both your cost and timeline.
Table of Contents
- Check Your Case Status and Wait 30 Days
- Non-Delivery Request if Your Card Was Returned to USCIS
- Filing a Replacement Form if Your Card Was Not Returned
- Get Temporary Proof of Status While Waiting
- Processing Timeline
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check Your Case Status and Wait 30 Days
Log into your uscis account and check your case status online using your receipt number (A-Number). Your case details will show whether the card was mailed and display any tracking information available. Wait at least 30 days from the USPS mailing date before filing a non-delivery claim, since postal delivery times are typically 3–7 days and delayed arrivals are common.
Do not report the card lost based on a shorter wait. During this 30-day window, monitor both your case status and your physical mailbox. If your card arrives during this period, no further action is needed.
Non-Delivery Request if Your Card Was Returned to USCIS
If your case status shows the card was returned to USCIS as undeliverable, or if USPS confirms in writing that the card was lost or misdelivered, you can use USCIS's Non-Delivery of Card e-request tool to request a replacement at no cost. This online tool is the fastest path available and does not require filing a new application.
To submit a non-delivery request, have your receipt number (A-Number), application type, filing date, and confirmation that you did not receive the item. USCIS will process your claim and issue a replacement card without any filing fee.
Filing a Replacement Form if Your Card Was Not Returned
If your card does not show as returned to USCIS, or if USPS shows it as delivered to you but you never received it, you must file a formal replacement application. For a green card, file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). For an EAD, file a new Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
Both require filing fees: $415 online or $465 by mail for Form I-90 as of 2026. However, certain replacement categories carry no filing fee—including cards returned to USCIS due to a USCIS-issued error—and fee waivers are available for applicants who cannot afford the cost. Review your specific situation before paying.
Get Temporary Proof of Status While Waiting
While you await your replacement card, request a free temporary ADIT stamp (Form I-551) to be placed in your passport or travel document. Call USCIS at 800-375-5283 after filing your replacement form and provide your case details. This temporary stamp serves as proof of immigration status for employment and travel and remains valid for 6–12 months, allowing you to continue working and travel internationally while your replacement card is being produced.
Processing Timeline
After USCIS receives your replacement application, expect a biometrics appointment notification within 1–2 weeks. Card production and delivery typically take an additional 3–7 weeks depending on your location. Total time from filing to receiving your card is usually 4–9 weeks, though processing varies by location and current USCIS volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I need to work or travel before my replacement arrives?
Request a temporary ADIT stamp in your passport by calling USCIS at 800-375-5283 after filing your replacement form. This stamp serves as proof of status for employment and travel for up to 12 months.
Can I get a fee waiver if I cannot afford the $415 or $465 replacement fee?
Yes. Fee waivers are available for applicants unable to afford the filing fee. Include a fee waiver request (Form I-912) with your replacement application.
What if USPS says the card was delivered but I never received it?
If the card shows as delivered in USPS tracking but never arrived at your address, you must file a formal replacement application (Form I-90 for green cards or Form I-765 for EADs) with the applicable filing fee, since USCIS did not receive the card back as undeliverable.