Yes, you can cross the border if you lost your green card, but it may require additional documentation and procedures. You should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance and assistance in obtaining the necessary documents to facilitate your re-entry.
Response to your request in detail
Yes, you can cross the border if you lost your green card, but it may require additional documentation and procedures. Losing your green card can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to ensure a smooth re-entry to the United States. Here’s what you need to know:
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Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate: If you find yourself without a green card while abroad, it’s crucial to reach out to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance and assistance. They will provide you with the necessary information and help you obtain the required documents for re-entry.
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Apply for a boarding foil: In most cases, if you lost your green card and need to travel back to the U.S., you will need to apply for a boarding foil. A boarding foil is a temporary travel document that allows you to return to the United States. You can obtain this document by visiting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
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Gather supporting documentation: When applying for a boarding foil or seeking assistance from the embassy or consulate, it is essential to have certain supporting documentation. This may include your passport, evidence of your lawful permanent resident status (if available), police report (if applicable), and any other identification or documents that can help establish your identity and immigration status.
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File a report with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): Losing your green card should be reported to the USCIS as soon as possible. They can guide you on the next steps, such as filing a Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to get a replacement green card. Keep in mind that the process for obtaining a replacement green card can take time, so it’s advisable to start the process immediately.
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Adhere to the proper procedures at the border: When attempting to cross the border without a green card, it’s important to communicate your situation clearly to the border officials. Present the temporary travel document issued by the embassy or consulate, along with any additional supporting documentation they may require. They will verify your identity and immigration status before allowing you to enter the country.
While having a green card is crucial for re-entry to the United States, losing it doesn’t mean you’re permanently barred from returning. With the appropriate documentation and adherence to the necessary procedures, you can safely cross the border and resolve your green card situation.
Famous quote on travel and resilience:
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” – Helen Keller
Interesting facts about green cards:
- The first official green card (Alien Registration Receipt Card) was issued in 1946.
- The green card is officially known as the Permanent Resident Card.
- Green cards were initially printed on green paper, hence the name “green card.” However, the color was changed to white in 2010 for security reasons.
- Green card holders are eligible for most federal benefits, including education, healthcare, and retirement benefits.
- Approximately 13.9 million green cards were in circulation as of 2019.
Table – Steps to cross the border without a green card:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Contact nearest U.S. embassy/consulate |
| 2 | Apply for a boarding foil |
| 3 | Gather supporting documentation |
| 4 | File a report with USCIS |
| 5 | Follow proper border procedures |
See related video
In this YouTube video titled “HELP! I Lost My Green Card Outside of the USA!”, Visa Harmony offers advice on what to do if your green card is lost, stolen, or destroyed while you are abroad. They recommend contacting the nearest US embassy or consulate to inquire about processing Form I-131a for a travel document, which will enable you to board your flight back to the USA. Once you arrive, you will need to file for a green card replacement using Form I-90 and pay the associated filing fee. Additional links and contact information for further assistance are also provided.
Check out the other answers I found
If you are overseas and your Permanent Resident Card was lost or stolen, and you have been out of the United States for less than 365 consecutive days, you may request a boarding foil to allow you to return to the United States.
As a permanent resident traveling overseas temporarily, you can generally use your permanent resident card (green card) or reentry permit to reenter the United States. You can use either document to board a transportation carrier and return to a U.S. port of entry. Lawful permanent residents of the United States (green card holders) must present their passports for entry into the U.S. by air but only have to present their permanent resident card for land and sea border crossings. Green card holders should also be allowed entry back into the U.S. as long as they haven’t been outside of the U.S. for more than a year.
As a permanent resident traveling overseas temporarily, you can generally use your permanent resident card (green card) or reentry permit to reenter the United States. You can use either document to board a transportation carrier and return to a U.S. port of entry.
Lawful permanent residents of the United States (green card holders) must present their passports for entry into the U.S. by air but only have to present their permanent resident card for land and sea border crossings. Canadian citizens generally need only their passports to cross into the U.S.
CBP can search an American traveler’s luggage and vehicle without a warrant at the border. Why it matters: A U.S. citizen cannot be denied entry. U.S. citizens must be admitted, says Cope. Green card holders should also be allowed entry back into the U.S. as long as they haven’t been outside of the U.S. for more than a year.