USCIS to issue redesigned Green Cards and Employment Authorization Documents

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The new redesigned Green Cards and EADs

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will be introducing a redesign to the Permanent Resident Cards commonly known as a Green Cards and the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as part of the Next Generation Secure Identification Document Project.

Te new cards will be issued beginning May 1, 2017.

The new designs will include enhanced graphics and fraud-resistant security features making the cards highly secure and more tamper-resistant than the ones currently in use.

The USCIS said that the new card designs demonstrate USCIS’ commitment to continue taking a proactive approach against the threat of document tampering and fraud. They are also part of an ongoing effort between USCIS, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enhance document security and deter counterfeiting and fraud.

The new Green Cards and EADs will:
Display the individual’s photos on both sides;

Show a unique graphic image and color palette:

Green Cards will have an image of the Statue of Liberty and a predominately green palette;

EAD cards will have an image of a bald eagle and a predominately red palette;

Have embedded holographic images; and

No longer display the individual’s signature.

Also, Green Cards will no longer have an optical stripe on the back.

Some individuals might still receive the older version of the Green Cards and EADs even after May 1, 2017 as USCIS uses up existing card stock until current supplies are depleted.

Both the existing and the new Green Cards and EADs will remain valid until the expiration date shown on the card.

According to the USCIS, both versions are acceptable for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, E-Verify, and Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE).

Some older Green Cards do not have an expiration date. These older Green Cards without an expiration date remain valid. Individuals who have Green Cards without an expiration date may want to consider applying for a replacement card bearing an expiration date.

Obtaining the replacement card will reduce the likelihood of fraud or tampering if the card is ever lost or stolen.