Permanent Resident Services

Lost or Stolen Green Cards

Permanent resident cards (commonly known as "green cards") can only be issued or replaced in the United States and can never be obtained overseas. A green card is required for re-entry into the United States as a permanent resident. If you left your green card in the U.S., you should arrange for someone to send it to you. If your green card has been lost or stolen, you may be able to obtain a "transportation letter" authorizing an airline to carry you to the United States without penalty.

Applying for a transportation letter

Individuals seeking a transportation letter should bring the following documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection office, 33 Garden Road, St. John's Building, 11^th floor, tel: +852-2524-1136, public hours 9 – 11:30 am and 2 – 4:30pm.

• Evidence of your identity (passport, photo ID)
• Your airplane tickets (the one showing your departure date from the U.S.)
• Evidence of your U.S. legal resident status (e.g. passport showing admission to the United States as an immigrant)
  Evidence that you were in the United States within the last 12 months
• Copy of your report to the police of the card's loss/theft or detailed explanation as to why you do not have your card
• 2 identical passport-style photographs

Processing time will depend on the circumstances of your case and the amount of information and evidence you provide. The time required can be as little as one hour to several days.

NOTE: Transportation letters are only processed during normal business hours. Requests will not be processed on weekends, holidays, or after hours.

 

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Last modified: November 7, 2008