USCIS Announces New I-551 Stamp Mail Delivery Process

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) recently announced a new mail delivery process for lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to receive an alien documentation, identification, and telecommunication (ADIT) stamp (also known as an I-551 stamp) as temporary evidence of the LPR’s status. Under the new policy, the USCIS can send the I-551 stamp directly to the LPR without requiring an in-person appointment at a local USCIS office.

When is evidence of LPR status required?

The law requires LPRs to maintain evidence of LPR status. While this usually is satisfied by possessing the physical green card, there are circumstances in which an LPR may need to obtain a temporary I-551 stamp. Such circumstances include when an LPR misplaces or otherwise does not have the physical green card, or during the pendency of certain applications, including applications for naturalization, green card renewal, or removal of conditions on residence.

What is the new I-551 stamp mail delivery process?

The USCIS previously required in-person appointments at a USCIS field office to receive the I-551 stamp. The new mail delivery process now allows the USCIS field office to mail an I-551 stamp directly to certain LPRs. The LPR can call the USCIS Contact Center and provide identifying information, confirm the address on file, and advise whether the address can receive UPS or FedEx express mail. If it is determined that an in-person appointment is not needed, then the USCIS will mail the LPR a form I-94 with an I-551 stamp, U.S. Department of Homeland Security seal, and a printed photo of the LPR.

When will an in-person I-551 stamp appointment be required?

The USCIS retains discretion to schedule an in-person appointment at a USCIS field office for an LPR to receive an I-551 stamp, if necessary. Appointments may be required in urgent cases, if the USCIS does not have a usable photo of the LPR in the system, or if the USCIS cannot confirm the LPR’s address or identity.

Conclusion

The new I-551 stamp mail delivery process is a positive step toward easing the burdens of scheduling in-person appointments to obtain mandatory documents. The new process provides an immediate benefit to LPRs who require I-551 stamps and improves what has been a cumbersome and time-consuming process.

Copyright © 2023, MURTHY LAW FIRM. All Rights Reserved