ADIT Stamp for U.S. Permanent Residents: A Comprehensive Guide

For U.S. Permanent Residents (commonly known as Green Card holders), maintaining proper documentation is essential for seamless travel and residence within the U.S. However, unexpected situations can arise, such as losing or misplacing your Green Card, or facing delays in its renewal or replacement. In such cases, one key piece of documentation becomes critical: the ADIT stamp. This stamp serves as temporary proof of permanent resident status and allows travel, employment, and residency while awaiting official documents. Here’s an in-depth guide to the ADIT stamp, including when and how to obtain it, its validity, and why it’s essential.

What is an ADIT Stamp?

The Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp is an endorsement issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that temporarily serves as evidence of lawful permanent resident status in the United States. Commonly referred to as an I-551 stamp, it is placed in the foreign national’s passport or on an official Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) if a passport is unavailable. It is most frequently used as a temporary proof of permanent residence when a Green Card is either lost, stolen, expired, or delayed in processing.

When is the ADIT Stamp Needed?

An ADIT stamp becomes necessary in several situations:

1. Lost or Stolen Green Card: If your Green Card is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) for a replacement. However, as this process can take months, an ADIT stamp will serve as temporary proof of your status while you wait for your new Green Card.
2. Expired Green Card: If your Green Card has expired and you need to travel, work, or show proof of your status, you may need an ADIT stamp while your replacement card is being processed.
3. Pending Green Card Renewal or Replacement: Even if you’ve filed for Green Card renewal or replacement, processing delays can occur. If you need to travel internationally or prove your legal resident status in the interim, an ADIT stamp ensures you remain compliant with immigration regulations.
4. No Physical Green Card Yet (New Permanent Residents): Newly approved permanent residents who have not yet received their physical Green Card but need to travel or prove their status for employment purposes may require an ADIT stamp.
5. Reentry After Extended Travel: If you have been outside the U.S. for an extended period (but less than one year) and your Green Card has expired during that time, you may need an ADIT stamp to re-enter the U.S. lawfully.

How to Obtain an ADIT Stamp

To get an ADIT stamp, you need to schedule an in-person appointment with USCIS through the USCIS Contact Center. Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining the stamp:

1. Call USCIS Contact Center: You cannot walk into a USCIS field office to request an ADIT stamp. You must first call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 to explain your situation and request an appointment. You will need to provide evidence showing that you’ve filed the necessary paperwork for your Green Card replacement or renewal.
2. Schedule an Appointment: USCIS may issue you an appointment at your local field office. This appointment is typically for the purpose of reviewing your documents and stamping your passport with the ADIT stamp.
3. Documents You Need:
   • Proof that you have filed Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) or Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, if applicable).
   • A copy of your expired or expiring Green Card (if available).
   • Proof of identity, such as a valid, unexpired passport or other government-issued ID.
   • Evidence that supports the urgency of your request, like proof of pending travel or employment requirements.
4. Attending the Appointment: During your appointment at the USCIS field office, the immigration officer will review your case and place the ADIT stamp in your passport. If you do not have a passport, USCIS may issue the stamp on a Form I-94.
5. Validity of the ADIT Stamp: Typically, the ADIT stamp is valid for 6 to 12 months, depending on the circumstances of your case. This stamp provides the same rights as a Green Card, including the ability to travel outside the U.S., re-enter, and work legally within the country.

Benefits of the ADIT Stamp

The ADIT stamp provides multiple benefits for U.S. permanent residents facing temporary documentation issues:

1. Proof of Legal Permanent Residence: The ADIT stamp serves as temporary proof that you are a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., which is crucial for employment, travel, and access to certain public services.
2. Work Authorization: Employers in the U.S. require proof of work authorization. With an ADIT stamp in your passport, you can legally continue to work or accept new employment while waiting for your replacement Green Card.
3. International Travel: If your Green Card is lost, stolen, or expired and you need to travel abroad, the ADIT stamp allows you to re-enter the U.S. without issues at the border, provided your stamp is valid at the time of your return.
4. Avoid Legal Consequences: Having the ADIT stamp ensures you avoid potential legal consequences for not having valid proof of permanent residency, which is required by law to be carried at all times.

FAQs About the ADIT Stamp

1. Is there a fee to obtain an ADIT stamp?
No, there is no additional fee for the ADIT stamp itself. However, if you are replacing your Green Card, the fee for filing Form I-90 still applies.

2. How long does it take to get an ADIT stamp?
Getting an ADIT stamp typically requires scheduling an appointment at a USCIS field office, and the time to secure an appointment can vary. It’s advisable to contact the USCIS Contact Center as soon as you realize you’ll need the stamp.

3. Can I travel internationally with an ADIT stamp?
Yes, you can travel internationally with an ADIT stamp. However, you must ensure that the stamp is still valid when you re-enter the U.S.

4. What happens if my ADIT stamp expires before I receive my Green Card?
If your ADIT stamp expires before your new Green Card arrives, you may need to request another appointment with USCIS for a new stamp. It is crucial to monitor the expiration date and take action well in advance.

5. Can I get an ADIT stamp without a passport?
Yes, if you do not have a passport, USCIS may issue the ADIT stamp on a Form I-94. However, having a passport can make the process smoother.

Get Expert Help & Consultation

We understand how stressful it can be to face issues with your Green Card, whether it’s lost, expired, or delayed. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to help you navigate the process of obtaining an ADIT stamp, ensuring you have the temporary proof of your legal permanent resident status. We’ll guide you through the necessary paperwork, help you secure appointments with USCIS, and provide personalized legal advice tailored to your unique situation. Don’t let documentation issues disrupt your life—contact us today for a consultation and let us handle the complexities for you. Your residency is our priority!