Sample of a U.S. Permanent Resident Card (commonly known as a green card), 2023. Source: Wikipedia. Image in the public domain via U.S. government.
Millions of U.S. green card holders may be unknowingly breaking federal law by not carrying their physical green cards. Here’s what lawful permanent residents need to know to stay compliant and avoid legal risk.
More than 13 million people in the United States hold lawful permanent resident status—commonly referred to as having a green card. However, many may be unaware of a specific legal obligation: under federal law, they are required to carry their green card with them at all times.
According to Section 264(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), individuals aged 18 and older who have been issued a green card must have it in their personal possession at all times. This provision is federal law and remains active.
“Every alien, eighteen years of age and over, shall at all times carry with him and have in his personal possession any certificate of alien registration… issued to him pursuant to subsection (d).”
— INA Section 264(e)
Failure to comply with this law is classified as a misdemeanor offense, and violators may be subject to a fine of up to $100 or up to 30 days in jail.
Law Remains in Effect
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirms the rule on its official website:
“If you are a permanent resident or conditional permanent resident of the United States and are 18 years of age or older, you are required by law to carry your valid Green Card (Form I-551) at all times.”
(Source: uscis.gov)
While this law is not commonly enforced in day-to-day situations, it is applicable during interactions with law enforcement, federal agencies, or immigration checkpoints, where individuals may be asked to present proof of legal status.
Photocopies or Digital Versions Do Not Fulfill the Requirement
Possession of a photocopy or digital scan of the green card does not satisfy the legal requirement. Only the original, valid, unexpired physical card is acceptable under the law.
To avoid legal complications, permanent residents are advised to carry their green card in a safe and protected manner—such as in an ID holder or sleeve—to prevent loss or damage.
Replacing a Lost Green Card
If a green card is lost, stolen, or damaged, it must be replaced by filing Form I-90 with USCIS. As of 2025, the filing fee is $540, and processing times can take 6 to 12 months, depending on USCIS workload and application volume.
Compliance Matters
Although enforcement may not be routine, the law is clear. Lawful permanent residents are expected to comply with the carry requirement to maintain full adherence to U.S. immigration regulations.
This requirement is a fundamental part of immigration law and remains relevant for green card holders throughout their residency in the United States.
